(From http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html)

It is important to remember that applying early and providing the requested documents does not guarantee that the student will receive a visa. Also, because each student’s personal and academic situation is different, two students applying for same visa may be asked different questions and be required to submit different documents. For that reason, the guidelines that follow are general and can be abridged or expanded by consular officers overseas, depending on each student’s situation.

All applicants for a student visa must provide:

• A Form I-20 obtained from a U.S. college, university or school. Please be sure to submit all three pages of the Form I-20. The form must be signed by you and by a school official in the appropriate places.

• A completed application Form DS-156, together with a Form DS-158. Both forms must be completed and signed. Some applicants will also be required to complete and sign Form DS-157. A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included in a parent's passport. The DS-156 must be the February 2003 date, either the electronic "e-form application" or the non-electronic version. You may also check with the Embassy Consular Section where you will apply to determine if the hard-copy blank DS-156 form is available, should you need it;

• A passport valid for at least six months after your proposed date of entry into the United States;

• One (1) 2x2 photograph. See the required photo format explained in nonimmigrant photograph requirements;

• A receipt to show payment of the SEVIS I-901 fee and any other fees required at the Embassy or Consulate.

All applicants should be prepared to provide:

• Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended;

• Scores from standardized tests required by the educational institution such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.;

• Financial evidence that shows you, your parents or other financial sponsor(s) have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study. For example, if you or your sponsor is a salaried employee, please bring income tax documents and original bank books and/or statements. If you or your sponsor own a business, please bring business registration, licenses, etc., and tax documents, as well as original bank books and/or statements.

Applicants with dependents must also provide:

• Proof of the student’s relationship to his/her spouse and/or children (e.g., marriage and birth certificates.);

• It is preferred that families apply for F-1 and F-2 visas at the same time, but if the spouse and children must apply separately at a later time, they should bring a copy of the student visa holder’s passport and visa, along with all other required documents.