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How to Fill Out the DS-160 Form (for AUA students)

The DS‑160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application required for U.S. visa applicants. This guide will walk you through each section using a student visa (F‑1) example.

Written by Levi Doronila


Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

  • Valid passport

  • Travel details

  • I‑20 Form

  • Personal information

  • Visa photo


Section 1: Personal Information

Enter your identity details exactly as they appear on your passport.

Example:

  • Name: Angela Marie Santos

  • Sex: Female

  • Marital Status: Single

  • Date of Birth: 08 September 2002

  • Place of Birth: Quezon City, Philippines

  • Nationality: Philippines

👉 Match your passport details exactly.


Section 2: Address & Phone Information

Provide your current contact information.

Example:

  • Address: Unit 8, Greenfields Residences, Muntinlupa City

  • Postal Code: 1770

  • Phone: +63 912 345 6789

👉 Use your current and active contact details.


Section 3: Passport Information

Enter your passport details:

  • Passport Number

  • Issuing Country

  • Issue Date

  • Expiration Date

Example:

  • Passport Number: L9876543B

  • Issuing Country: Philippines

  • Issue Date: 22 February 2024

  • Expiration Date: 21 February 2034

👉 Make sure there are no typographical errors.


Section 4: Travel Information

Provide your travel plans.

Example (F‑1 Student):

  • Visa Type: F‑1 Student

  • Arrival Date: 01 July 2026

  • Intended Stay: Based on I‑20 program duration (e.g., 4 years)

👉 Use the exact program duration stated on your I‑20.


Section 5: Travel Companions

Indicate if you are traveling:

  • Alone

  • With others

👉 Add details if traveling with companions.


Section 6: Previous U.S. Travel

Provide information such as:

  • Previous visits to the U.S.

  • Visa history

  • Any refusals

👉 Always answer truthfully.


Section 7: U.S. Contact Information (School Details)

Use your I‑20 form for this section.

Example (Avila University – replace with exact I‑20 details):

  • Contact Name: Avila University International Admissions Office

  • Organization: Avila University (Arizona Campus)

  • Address: [Insert exact address from I‑20]

  • City: [Insert city from I‑20]

  • State: Arizona

  • ZIP Code: [Insert ZIP from I‑20]

  • Phone Number: [Insert school phone from I‑20]

👉 All information must match your I‑20 exactly.


Section 8: Family Information

Provide:

  • Father’s full name

  • Mother’s full name

  • Spouse information (if applicable)

👉 Ensure names are spelled correctly.


Section 9: Work / Education / Training

Provide your current status.

Example:

  • Occupation: Student

  • School: University of Santo Tomas

  • Course: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

👉 Provide complete and accurate details.


Section 10: Security and Background Questions

Answer all Yes/No questions regarding:

  • Criminal history

  • Immigration violations

  • Health issues

👉 Answer honestly and carefully.


Section 11: Photo Upload

  • Upload a compliant U.S. visa photo

  • If rejected, prepare a printed copy

👉 Follow official visa photo guidelines.


Final Step: Review, Sign, and Submit

Before submitting:

  1. Review all entries carefully

  2. Correct any errors

  3. Electronically sign the application

  4. Submit the DS‑160

  5. Print your confirmation page

👉 The system will show a full review of your application before submission.


Important Reminders

  • Do NOT bring the full DS‑160 to your interview

  • Bring only the confirmation page with barcode

  • Ensure all details match your passport and I‑20


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect passport details

  • Wrong visa type selection

  • Incomplete information

  • Mismatch with I‑20 data


Need Help?

  • Save your application and finish later if needed

  • Contact your advisor if you are unsure about any section

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