Study in USA

The United States has the largest higher education system in the world with over 4,000 institutions. From Ivy League schools to state universities, there's a perfect fit for every student.

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Cost overview

Tuition range

USD $20,000 – $55,000 / year

Living costs

USD $1,000 – $2,500 / month

Application roadmap

Step-by-step process for USA

Research and apply to universities

12–18 months before start

The US has over 4,000 accredited institutions. Use Common App for undergraduate admissions (up to 20 schools). For graduate programs, apply directly. Most deadlines are November–February for September intake. Prepare SAT/ACT scores for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for grad.

Transcripts SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT scores TOEFL/IELTS scores Essays References Application fee ($50–$100)

Receive your I-20 form

4–8 weeks after admission

After admission, your university's Designated School Official (DSO) will issue Form I-20. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of USD $350 online at www.fmjfee.com before your visa interview. Keep the receipt.

I-20 form SEVIS fee receipt

Complete DS-160 and schedule your visa interview

4–5 months before departure

Complete Form DS-160 online at ceac.state.gov. Pay the USD $185 MRV fee. Schedule your F-1 visa interview at the US Embassy in Harare as early as possible — appointment slots can be scarce.

DS-160 confirmation Passport I-20 SEVIS receipt Financial documents University offer letter

Attend your visa interview

After scheduling

Arrive early with all your documents. The consular officer will ask about your study plans, financial situation, and ties to Zimbabwe. Be confident and honest. Visa decisions are usually given on the day or within a few days.

Passport DS-160 I-20 SEVIS receipt Bank statements Offer letter Academic records

Arrange housing and arrive

Before start date

Apply for on-campus housing immediately after admission. You may enter the US up to 30 days before your program start date as listed on your I-20. At the port of entry, you will receive an I-94 arrival record — download it from cbp.dhs.gov.

Passport I-20 I-94 record

Enrol, get your SSN and student ID

First week on campus

Report to your DSO within 15 days of arriving to validate your SEVIS record. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if you have on-campus employment. Set up a US bank account and attend mandatory orientation.

I-20 I-94 Passport Employment authorisation (for SSN)

Visa information

Visa type

F-1 Student Visa

Processing time

2–4 weeks (after interview)

Visa fee

USD $185

Required documents

Valid passport
Form I-20 from your university (SEVIS)
SEVIS fee payment (USD $350)
DS-160 application form
Visa interview appointment
Proof of financial support
Academic transcripts and test scores
Ties to home country evidence

The F-1 visa interview is mandatory at a US Embassy or Consulate. Allow 3–4 months from application to arrival. You can work on-campus up to 20 hours/week during term.

Last verified: 28 April 2026

Official immigration portal

Frequently asked questions

Visa requirements and tuition fees are subject to change. Kuro Education Consultancy provides guidance based on current regulations, but final decisions rest with the embassy and university.