The Tribune

* Schedule an appointment for a visa interview by calling the fee-based Visa Information Service at 1-800-763-6812 or 1-800-709-1892. Note the $14 payment fee can be made via credit card or pin numbers can be obtained by purchasing a visa scratch card at local gas stations. When you call you will receive an appointment date and time, along with a confirmation number. * Complete the DS-160 electronic visa application form found on the US Embassy website, http://nassau.usembassy.gov. * Pay your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee of $200, which is payable online at www.fmjfee.com/i901fee or by money order. Be sure to print your receipt. * Gather your financial documents to demonstrate that you have immediate access to the full amount of funds listed on your I-20 form (tuition, room and board an other expenses) for the first year of education. * Assemble the documentation that you believe will support your application for a US visa. This includes a valid passport, visa fee application fee $160 (paid in cash, all in one currency), your application, DS-160 confirmation sheet and two recent passport-size photos. * Arrive on time to your interview. Be sure to bring all documentation including SEVIS receipt, I-20 form and a photo ID. * Pay your fees and have your fingerprints taken. * Complete your interview. Applicants must prove to the consular officer that they intend to study in the US and not pursue any other activities (like working), that they will abide by the terms of the visa and that they have sufficient social, economic and/or family ties to compel you to return to the Bahamas after you have completed your studies.