Navigating Student Visa Processes to Study Abroad with Focus on TOEFL Exam

Student visas are the most important piece of documents required for studying abroad next to your admission letter. The TOEFL exam plays an important role in obtaining a student visa for different countries. Scoring well in your TOEFL exam can boost your chances of a successful visa interview and shortlisting of application.

Make your study abroad journey simpler by having a clear understanding of the student visa processes. A TOEFL score supports your application by proving your English language proficiency, thereby potentially easing the visa process. TOEFL is the most widely accepted in 13,000+ institutions across 160+ countries and now takes less than 2 hours making it one of the shorter tests with widest acceptance.

Understanding the Student Visa Process Globally

The core principles of student visa processes are securing admission, proving financial capability, and demonstrating language proficiency. Showcasing your English proficiency in English-speaking countries is easier with a TOEFL score and it also proves your ability to thrive in an academic environment.

Student Visa Processes

While understanding the Visa processes in different countries is a bit hectic task, a simplified list is provided below for easier understanding.

1. United States (F-1 Visa)

• TOEFL Score: A TOEFL score supports your application and is one of the key requirements for getting university admission and a US F-1 Visa.
• You must be admitted to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
• Pay the SEVIS fee and keep the receipt for your visa application.
• Complete the DS-160, the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application.
• Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Bring your I-20 form, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, TOEFL score report, and passport.

2. United Kingdom (Tier 4 Student Visa)

• TOEFL Requirement: For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL score is required to prove English proficiency for UK Tier 4 Student Visa.
• Secure admission to a school licensed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
• Obtain a CAS number from your institution.
• Complete the online visa application and pay the visa fee.
• Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
• Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

3. Canada (Study Permit)

• TOEFL Requirement: TOEFL scores are required by many programs or institutions in Canada to demonstrate English proficiency, particularly under the Student Direct Stream (SDS). A TOEFL score supports your application by demonstrating your English proficiency, which is a key requirement for admission to Canadian institutions.
• Obtain admission from a DLI recognised institute by the Canadian government.
• Complete the study permit application online or via paper.
• Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) if required.
• Show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and cover tuition fees.

4. Australia (Student Visa Subclass 500)

• TOEFL Requirement: TOEFL scores are accepted by the Australian government for all immigration and visas (Australian student visa, work, and skilled visas)
• Secure admission to a registered course at an Australian educational institution.
• Apply online for the Student Visa Subclass 500.
• Undergo health checks and provide police clearance if necessary.
• Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

5. New Zealand (Student Visa)

• TOEFL Requirement: TOEFL iBT scores are accepted for all migration visas in New Zealand. It is also accepted for New Zealand permanent residence.
• Gain admission to a recognised institution in New Zealand.
• Apply for a student visa online or through a New Zealand Visa Application Centre.
• Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Provide health and character documentation as required.

Visa Processes | Common Challenges and Solutions

 Check here the common challenges faced by Indian students during the student visa application process for studying abroad.  

1. Visa Denials: Ensure all application forms are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. A TOEFL score supports your application.
2. Financial Documentation: Provide thorough and accurate financial evidence, including bank statements and affidavits. This documentation is crucial for proving your ability to fund your studies and living expenses.
3. Language Barriers: Utilize TOEFL preparation to improve your English skills. This not only helps with the academic aspect but also boosts your confidence during the visa interview and in daily life abroad.

You can utilise the TOEFL official study material for your preparation as it has a personalized study plan, TOEFL TestReady portal (practice samplers, free daily activity, test samplers, and more), TOEFL iBT official beginner’s guide, TOEFL Masterclass, 40-minute TOEFL sampler, self-paced course, and more. To access the official TOEFL study materials for free:

Create your FREE TOEFL Account!

The TOEFL iBT test takes less than 2 hours to complete and provides instant scores for reading and listening.

By ensuring you meet all the criteria and leveraging your TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application and a rewarding study experience abroad. A TOEFL score helps you get admission to your dream program and eases your visa process with its widest acceptance and credibility.