Choose and apply to a college. When you are accepted you will receive an I-20 form that is required to apply for a F1 Visa. You will also receive a visa registration packet.
Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee to the Department of Homeland Security. Keep the receipt for submission to the United States Embassy or Consulate. The Department of Homeland Security offers an online version of the form and fee on their website (See "Resources").
Contact the United States Embassy or Consulate in your country to pay the visa registration fee and schedule an interview. Do this at least 90 days before the beginning of the college semester. Keep the receipt for the visa registration fee for submission later.
Complete the non-immigrant visa application (DS-156) included in your visa registration packet. This form requires you to attach a photo.
Go to the interview and submit the I-20, DS-156, SEVIS receipt and visa application fee receipt as directed by your United States Embassy or Consulate. Bring any other documentation required by the Embassy or Consulate.
Complete item 11 of the I-20 form and present it to the immigration official at the United States border airport when you arrive. Also have your passport and student visa with you and ready to present to the official.