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Applications · Visa

DS-160 field guide

Section-level help for F-1 DS-160—verify every answer against your I-20 and passport. Not legal advice.

You are here · After I-20 and SEVIS fee; before paying the visa fee appointment

Portals change. Confirm every field and file rule on the official university or government site before you submit.

CEAC DS-160 (official)What-if library

Field cards

Label → what to enter → common mistake → whom to ask.

  • Purpose of trip to the U.S.

    Enter
    Academic study / F student (wording as CEAC lists). Align with your I-20 program.
    Common mistake
    Picking tourism or employment because it “sounds easier.”
    If unsure, ask
    I-20 program + DSO if unsure—never a paid “DS-160 agent” with your password.

  • SEVIS ID

    Enter
    From your I-20 (usually N00…). Copy carefully.
    Common mistake
    Typing an old I-20 SEVIS ID after a school transfer.
    If unsure, ask
    Current I-20 page 1.

  • School address / program

    Enter
    Use the school address and program as printed on the I-20.
    Common mistake
    Using a random Google Maps pin for the campus.
    If unsure, ask
    I-20 school information block.

  • Travel companions

    Enter
    Answer truthfully. Family travelling separately is not the same as “travelling with.”
    Common mistake
    Listing people who are not travelling with you to “look strong.”
    If unsure, ask
    Your actual ticket and family plans.

  • Security / background yes-no

    Enter
    Read each question. “Yes” needs explanation boxes. Lying is worse than an awkward yes.
    Common mistake
    Clicking No on everything without reading.
    If unsure, ask
    Parents/lawyer only if a real legal issue exists—not a consultancy script.

  • Digital photo upload

    Enter
    U.S. visa photo rules (see Document upload specs). Tool on CEAC validates many photos.
    Common mistake
    Selfie on a messy background that CEAC rejects at the counter.
    If unsure, ask
    /applications/document-upload-specs + professional visa photo studio.

Upload specs

  • DS-160 photo

    Format
    JPEG
    Max size
    CEAC limit
    Dimensions
    2×2 in; see upload specs guide
    Naming
    As CEAC accepts

    Save the DS-160 confirmation page PDF after submit—you need the barcode number.

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