To obtain an F-1/M-1 visa, international students must present their Certificate of Eligibility (SEVIS I-20) and proof of SEVIS (I-901) fee to the nearest U.S. Consulate to you.
The SEVIS is required of all individuals seeking F-1/M-1 visa. The fee is $100 U.S. currency. This fee helps pay for the cost of maintaining the SEVIS system that U.S. schools use to generate the I-20 form. You must pay the fee before you apply for your visa.
SEVIS fee payment
You can pay your SEVIS fee online at http://www.fmjfee.com/index.jhtml. This method of payment is highly recommended. You can also pay the SEVIS fee locally by Western Union Quick Pay or by U.S. postal service.