{"id":22873,"date":"2026-07-06T10:01:43","date_gmt":"2026-07-06T10:01:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/?p=22873"},"modified":"2026-07-06T10:50:30","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T10:50:30","slug":"usa-i20-vs-uk-cas-2026-pakistani-students-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/usa-i20-vs-uk-cas-2026-pakistani-students-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"USA I-20 vs UK CAS 2026: Pakistani Students\u2019 Ultimate Study Abroad Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"22873\" class=\"elementor elementor-22873\" data-elementor-settings=\"{&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true}}\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8fabc2f e-con e-atomic-element e-flexbox-base e-4d45f87 \" data-id=\"8fabc2f\" data-element_type=\"e-flexbox\" data-e-type=\"e-flexbox\" data-interaction-id=\"8fabc2f\" data-e-type=\"e-flexbox\" data-id=\"8fabc2f\">\n    \t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-88dc0e3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"88dc0e3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<script async src=\"https:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-8539301469186278\"\r\n     crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script>\r\n\r\n<style>\r\n.rv-i20cas-blog{\r\n  max-width:1100px;\r\n  margin:0 auto;\r\n  padding:20px;\r\n  font-family:'Poppins', Arial, sans-serif;\r\n  color:#0f172a;\r\n  line-height:1.75;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-blog *{box-sizing:border-box}\r\n.rv-i20cas-hero{\r\n  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#fff1f7 0%,#ffffff 48%,#eef6ff 100%);\r\n  border:1px solid #f7d3e6;\r\n  border-radius:30px;\r\n  padding:44px 34px;\r\n  box-shadow:0 18px 45px rgba(15,23,42,.08);\r\n  position:relative;\r\n  overflow:hidden;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-hero:before{\r\n  content:\"\";\r\n  position:absolute;\r\n  width:260px;\r\n  height:260px;\r\n  right:-90px;\r\n  top:-90px;\r\n  background:radial-gradient(circle,#f02b83 0%,rgba(240,43,131,.08) 62%,transparent 70%);\r\n  opacity:.45;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-badge{\r\n  display:inline-flex;\r\n  align-items:center;\r\n  gap:8px;\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  color:#d6005f;\r\n  border:1px solid #ffd3e8;\r\n  padding:8px 14px;\r\n  border-radius:999px;\r\n  font-size:14px;\r\n  font-weight:800;\r\n  margin-bottom:16px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-hero h1{\r\n  font-size:clamp(30px,5vw,54px);\r\n  line-height:1.12;\r\n  margin:0 0 16px;\r\n  letter-spacing:-1.2px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-hero p{\r\n  font-size:18px;\r\n  color:#475569;\r\n  max-width:880px;\r\n  margin:0 0 22px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-cta{\r\n  display:flex;\r\n  gap:14px;\r\n  flex-wrap:wrap;\r\n  margin-top:22px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-btn{\r\n  display:inline-block;\r\n  padding:14px 22px;\r\n  border-radius:14px;\r\n  font-weight:800;\r\n  text-decoration:none;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-btn-primary{\r\n  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f02b83,#d6005f);\r\n  color:#fff;\r\n  box-shadow:0 12px 26px rgba(214,0,95,.25);\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-btn-light{\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  color:#0f172a;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-note{\r\n  margin-top:18px;\r\n  background:#fff7ed;\r\n  color:#9a3412;\r\n  border:1px solid #fed7aa;\r\n  border-radius:16px;\r\n  padding:14px 16px;\r\n  font-size:14px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-grid{\r\n  display:grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);\r\n  gap:18px;\r\n  margin:28px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-card{\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:22px;\r\n  padding:22px;\r\n  box-shadow:0 12px 35px rgba(15,23,42,.06);\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-card h3{\r\n  margin:0 0 8px;\r\n  font-size:20px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-card p{\r\n  margin:0;\r\n  color:#64748b;\r\n}\r\n.rv-ad-box{\r\n  margin:34px 0;\r\n  padding:12px;\r\n  background:#ffffff;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:20px;\r\n  box-shadow:0 10px 28px rgba(15,23,42,.05);\r\n  overflow:hidden;\r\n}\r\n.rv-ad-label{\r\n  text-align:center;\r\n  font-size:12px;\r\n  color:#94a3b8;\r\n  margin-bottom:8px;\r\n  letter-spacing:.4px;\r\n  text-transform:uppercase;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-section{\r\n  margin:38px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-section h2{\r\n  font-size:clamp(26px,4vw,38px);\r\n  line-height:1.2;\r\n  margin:0 0 14px;\r\n  letter-spacing:-.6px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-section h3{\r\n  font-size:24px;\r\n  margin:26px 0 10px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-section p{\r\n  color:#334155;\r\n  margin:0 0 16px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-list{\r\n  padding-left:20px;\r\n  color:#334155;\r\n}\r\n.rv-i20cas-list li{\r\n  margin-bottom:10px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-compare{\r\n  display:grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr);\r\n  gap:20px;\r\n  margin:24px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-compare-card{\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:24px;\r\n  padding:26px;\r\n  box-shadow:0 14px 35px rgba(15,23,42,.06);\r\n}\r\n.rv-compare-card h3{\r\n  margin:0 0 12px;\r\n  font-size:26px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-compare-card .tag{\r\n  display:inline-block;\r\n  background:#fff1f7;\r\n  color:#d6005f;\r\n  border:1px solid #ffd3e8;\r\n  padding:6px 12px;\r\n  border-radius:999px;\r\n  font-size:13px;\r\n  font-weight:800;\r\n  margin-bottom:12px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-step{\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:24px;\r\n  padding:26px;\r\n  margin:22px 0;\r\n  box-shadow:0 14px 35px rgba(15,23,42,.06);\r\n}\r\n.rv-step-top{\r\n  display:flex;\r\n  align-items:flex-start;\r\n  gap:16px;\r\n  margin-bottom:12px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-step-num{\r\n  min-width:46px;\r\n  height:46px;\r\n  border-radius:14px;\r\n  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f02b83,#d6005f);\r\n  color:#fff;\r\n  display:flex;\r\n  align-items:center;\r\n  justify-content:center;\r\n  font-weight:900;\r\n  font-size:20px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-step h3{\r\n  margin:0;\r\n  font-size:25px;\r\n  line-height:1.25;\r\n}\r\n.rv-mini-box{\r\n  background:#f8fafc;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:16px;\r\n  padding:15px 16px;\r\n  margin:16px 0 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-mini-box strong{color:#d6005f}\r\n.rv-warning{\r\n  background:#fff1f2;\r\n  border:1px solid #fecdd3;\r\n  color:#9f1239;\r\n  border-radius:16px;\r\n  padding:15px 16px;\r\n  margin:16px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-fix{\r\n  background:#f0fdf4;\r\n  border:1px solid #bbf7d0;\r\n  color:#166534;\r\n  border-radius:16px;\r\n  padding:15px 16px;\r\n  margin:16px 0 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-table-wrap{\r\n  overflow-x:auto;\r\n  border-radius:20px;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  margin:22px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-table{\r\n  width:100%;\r\n  border-collapse:collapse;\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  min-width:760px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-table th{\r\n  background:#0f172a;\r\n  color:#fff;\r\n  text-align:left;\r\n  padding:16px;\r\n  font-size:15px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-table td{\r\n  padding:16px;\r\n  border-bottom:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  vertical-align:top;\r\n  color:#334155;\r\n}\r\n.rv-table tr:last-child td{border-bottom:0}\r\n.rv-highlight{\r\n  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#0f172a,#1e293b);\r\n  color:#fff;\r\n  border-radius:26px;\r\n  padding:30px;\r\n  margin:34px 0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-highlight h2,.rv-highlight p{color:#fff}\r\n.rv-checklist{\r\n  display:grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr);\r\n  gap:16px;\r\n  margin-top:18px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-check{\r\n  background:#f8fafc;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:18px;\r\n  padding:18px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-check strong{color:#d6005f}\r\n.rv-faq{\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:18px;\r\n  padding:20px;\r\n  margin:14px 0;\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n}\r\n.rv-faq h3{margin:0 0 8px}\r\n.rv-video-section{\r\n  margin:42px 0 0;\r\n  background:#fff;\r\n  border:1px solid #e2e8f0;\r\n  border-radius:28px;\r\n  padding:26px;\r\n  box-shadow:0 14px 35px rgba(15,23,42,.06);\r\n}\r\n.rv-video-section h2{\r\n  font-size:clamp(26px,4vw,38px);\r\n  margin:0 0 12px;\r\n  line-height:1.2;\r\n}\r\n.rv-video-section p{\r\n  color:#475569;\r\n  margin:0 0 18px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-video-wrap{\r\n  position:relative;\r\n  width:100%;\r\n  padding-bottom:56.25%;\r\n  height:0;\r\n  overflow:hidden;\r\n  border-radius:22px;\r\n  background:#0f172a;\r\n}\r\n.rv-video-wrap iframe{\r\n  position:absolute;\r\n  top:0;\r\n  left:0;\r\n  width:100%;\r\n  height:100%;\r\n  border:0;\r\n}\r\n.rv-final-cta{\r\n  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f02b83,#d6005f);\r\n  color:#fff;\r\n  border-radius:28px;\r\n  padding:34px;\r\n  text-align:center;\r\n  margin-top:40px;\r\n}\r\n.rv-final-cta h2,.rv-final-cta p{color:#fff}\r\n@media(max-width:768px){\r\n  .rv-i20cas-blog{padding:14px}\r\n  .rv-i20cas-hero{padding:30px 20px;border-radius:22px}\r\n  .rv-i20cas-grid,.rv-compare,.rv-checklist{grid-template-columns:1fr}\r\n  .rv-step{padding:20px}\r\n  .rv-step-top{gap:12px}\r\n  .rv-video-section{padding:18px;border-radius:22px}\r\n}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<article class=\"rv-i20cas-blog\">\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-hero\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-badge\">Study Abroad 2026<\/div>\r\n    <h1>USA I-20 vs UK CAS 2026: Pakistani Students\u2019 Ultimate Guide<\/h1>\r\n    <p>Planning to study abroad in 2026? Pakistani students often get confused between the USA I-20 and the UK CAS. Both documents are important for student visa applications, but they work differently. This guide explains what I-20 and CAS mean, how they affect your visa, what documents you need, and which route may be better for your profile.<\/p>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-cta\">\r\n      <a class=\"rv-i20cas-btn rv-i20cas-btn-primary\" href=\"#comparison\">Compare I-20 vs CAS<\/a>\r\n      <a class=\"rv-i20cas-btn rv-i20cas-btn-light\" href=\"#video-guide\">Watch Video Guide<\/a>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-note\">\r\n      Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. USA and UK visa rules can change, so always verify final details from official sources before applying.\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-grid\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-card\">\r\n      <h3>USA I-20<\/h3>\r\n      <p>Issued by a SEVP-approved school after admission. It supports your F-1 or M-1 student visa application.<\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-card\">\r\n      <h3>UK CAS<\/h3>\r\n      <p>Issued by a UK licensed student sponsor. It is required before applying for a UK Student Visa.<\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-i20cas-card\">\r\n      <h3>Main Rule<\/h3>\r\n      <p>I-20 or CAS is not a visa approval. Your visa still depends on funds, documents and credibility.<\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"rv-ad-box\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-ad-label\">Advertisement<\/div>\r\n    <ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n         style=\"display:block; text-align:center;\"\r\n         data-ad-layout=\"in-article\"\r\n         data-ad-format=\"fluid\"\r\n         data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-8539301469186278\"\r\n         data-ad-slot=\"7384169919\"><\/ins>\r\n    <script>\r\n         (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n    <\/script>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>What Is the USA I-20?<\/h2>\r\n    <p>The I-20 is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. It is issued by a SEVP-approved school in the United States after you receive admission and the school enters your information into SEVIS. Pakistani students normally use the I-20 to apply for an F-1 student visa for academic study or an M-1 visa for vocational study.<\/p>\r\n    <p>Your I-20 contains important information such as your school name, SEVIS ID, course level, programme start date, estimated tuition, living expenses and funding details. You must keep your I-20 safe because it may be required for your visa interview, travel and student status record.<\/p>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-mini-box\">\r\n      <strong>Simple meaning:<\/strong> I-20 is your USA student visa eligibility document, but it is not your visa.\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>What Is the UK CAS?<\/h2>\r\n    <p>CAS means Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. It is issued by a UK licensed student sponsor after you meet the university\u2019s conditions, pay the required deposit if applicable, and the university is ready to sponsor your Student Visa application.<\/p>\r\n    <p>Your CAS includes your course details, university licence information, tuition fee, payment or scholarship details, English language assessment and your personal information. UKVI uses the CAS to verify that you have a genuine offer from a licensed institution.<\/p>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-mini-box\">\r\n      <strong>Simple meaning:<\/strong> CAS is your UK Student Visa sponsorship document, but it is not your visa approval.\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\" id=\"comparison\">\r\n    <h2>USA I-20 vs UK CAS: Quick Comparison for Pakistani Students<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-table-wrap\">\r\n  <table class=\"rv-table\">\r\n    <thead>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <th>Point<\/th>\r\n        <th>USA I-20<\/th>\r\n        <th>UK CAS<\/th>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/thead>\r\n    <tbody>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Full Meaning<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status<\/td>\r\n        <td>Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Issued By<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>SEVP-approved school in the USA<\/td>\r\n        <td>UK licensed student sponsor\/university<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Visa Type<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>F-1 or M-1 student visa<\/td>\r\n        <td>UK Student Visa<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>System<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>SEVIS-based student record<\/td>\r\n        <td>UKVI sponsorship system<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Visa Application Form<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>DS-160 for nonimmigrant visa<\/td>\r\n        <td>UK Student Visa online application<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Main Extra Fee<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>SEVIS I-901 fee plus visa application fee<\/td>\r\n        <td>Visa fee plus Immigration Health Surcharge<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Financial Focus<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>Ability to pay tuition, living and travel costs<\/td>\r\n        <td>Course fee plus required maintenance funds<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Visa Interview<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>Usually required for Pakistani applicants<\/td>\r\n        <td>Credibility interview may be required in some cases<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td><strong>Document Guarantee?<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td>I-20 does not guarantee F-1 visa approval<\/td>\r\n        <td>CAS does not guarantee Student Visa approval<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/tbody>\r\n  <\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>Which One Is Easier: USA I-20 or UK CAS?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-compare\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-compare-card\">\r\n    <span class=\"tag\">USA Route<\/span>\r\n    <h3>I-20 Route<\/h3>\r\n    <p>The USA route can be attractive because of strong universities, research opportunities, scholarships and Optional Practical Training options. However, the visa interview is very important. You must clearly explain your academic plan, funding source, university choice and intention to return after studies.<\/p>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <div class=\"rv-compare-card\">\r\n    <span class=\"tag\">UK Route<\/span>\r\n    <h3>CAS Route<\/h3>\r\n    <p>The UK route is popular because many master\u2019s degrees are one year, the process can be more structured, and post-study options are clear through the Graduate Route if eligible. However, your CAS, funds, TB test and documents must be accurate.<\/p>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Simple answer:<\/strong> USA may be better for students looking for research, scholarships and long-term academic growth. UK may be better for students who want a shorter study route, structured visa process and faster course completion.<\/p>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>USA I-20 Process: Step-by-Step<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">1<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Apply to a SEVP-Approved School<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>First, you apply to a school that is approved to enrol international students. After admission, the school reviews your academic documents and financial proof.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">2<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Receive Your Form I-20<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>Once the school accepts you and enters your information into SEVIS, it issues your I-20. You should check your name, date of birth, programme, start date and funding details carefully.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">3<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Pay SEVIS I-901 Fee<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>Before your visa interview, you normally pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Keep the receipt because it may be required during the visa process.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-ad-box\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-ad-label\">Advertisement<\/div>\r\n  <ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n       style=\"display:block; text-align:center;\"\r\n       data-ad-layout=\"in-article\"\r\n       data-ad-format=\"fluid\"\r\n       data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-8539301469186278\"\r\n       data-ad-slot=\"7384169919\"><\/ins>\r\n  <script>\r\n       (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n  <\/script>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">4<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Complete DS-160 and Book Visa Interview<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>After receiving your I-20, you complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa application fee and schedule your F-1 visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">5<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Attend Interview with Clear Answers<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>You should be ready to explain why you chose the USA, why this university, why this course, who is funding you and what your future plan is after completing studies.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>UK CAS Process: Step-by-Step<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">1<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Get Admission from a UK University<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>You apply to a UK university, submit academic documents, English evidence if required, passport and other documents according to the course requirements.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">2<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Meet Conditions and Pay Deposit<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>If your offer is conditional, you must meet the conditions first. Many universities also require a deposit before issuing CAS.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">3<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Receive and Check Your CAS<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>Check your CAS carefully. Your name, passport number, course title, tuition fee, payments, scholarship and English language information should be correct.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">4<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Prepare Funds and Visa Documents<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>You normally need to show course fee and living cost funds. For UK Student Visa, funds must meet strict timing and evidence rules. Pakistani students also usually need a TB certificate for courses longer than 6 months.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-step\">\r\n  <div class=\"rv-step-top\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-step-num\">5<\/div>\r\n    <h3>Submit Student Visa Application<\/h3>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n  <p>After CAS and documents are ready, you submit the online visa application, pay the visa fee and IHS, then complete biometrics or identity verification as required.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>Cost Comparison: USA I-20 vs UK CAS Route<\/h2>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-table-wrap\">\r\n      <table class=\"rv-table\">\r\n        <thead>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <th>Cost Area<\/th>\r\n            <th>USA I-20 \/ F-1 Route<\/th>\r\n            <th>UK CAS \/ Student Visa Route<\/th>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n        <\/thead>\r\n        <tbody>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <td><strong>Main Visa Fee<\/strong><\/td>\r\n            <td>F visa category application fee is commonly $185<\/td>\r\n            <td>UK Student Visa fee is \u00a3558<\/td>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <td><strong>Extra Mandatory Fee<\/strong><\/td>\r\n            <td>SEVIS I-901 fee for F\/M students is commonly $350<\/td>\r\n            <td>IHS for students is \u00a3776 per year<\/td>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <td><strong>Financial Proof<\/strong><\/td>\r\n            <td>Must show ability to pay educational, living and travel costs<\/td>\r\n            <td>Course fee plus London\/outside London maintenance funds<\/td>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <td><strong>Healthcare Cost<\/strong><\/td>\r\n            <td>Usually depends on university health insurance and state\/campus rules<\/td>\r\n            <td>IHS gives access to NHS services after visa starts, with some limits<\/td>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n          <tr>\r\n            <td><strong>Timeline Pressure<\/strong><\/td>\r\n            <td>Interview appointment and administrative processing can affect timing<\/td>\r\n            <td>CAS timing, funds timing and decision time can affect intake<\/td>\r\n          <\/tr>\r\n        <\/tbody>\r\n      <\/table>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-highlight\">\r\n    <h2>Important Advice for Pakistani Students<\/h2>\r\n    <p>Do not treat I-20 or CAS as a final visa approval. Both documents only support your visa application. Your final result depends on your profile, documents, funds, interview answers, immigration history and whether your study plan looks genuine.<\/p>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>Common Mistakes Pakistani Students Should Avoid<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-warning\">\r\n  <strong>Mistake 1:<\/strong> Thinking I-20 or CAS means visa is guaranteed.\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"rv-warning\">\r\n  <strong>Mistake 2:<\/strong> Submitting weak or unexplained financial documents.\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"rv-warning\">\r\n  <strong>Mistake 3:<\/strong> Choosing a course that does not connect with previous education or career goals.\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"rv-warning\">\r\n  <strong>Mistake 4:<\/strong> Giving memorised answers in USA visa interview or UK credibility interview.\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"rv-warning\">\r\n  <strong>Mistake 5:<\/strong> Not checking spelling, passport number, dates and fee details on I-20 or CAS.\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-fix\">\r\n  <strong>Best solution:<\/strong> Build one clear story. Your course, university, funds, sponsor, documents and future plan should all match each other.\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>Which Country Should You Choose in 2026?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-table-wrap\">\r\n  <table class=\"rv-table\">\r\n    <thead>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <th>Your Priority<\/th>\r\n        <th>Better Option<\/th>\r\n        <th>Reason<\/th>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/thead>\r\n    <tbody>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td>Shorter master\u2019s degree<\/td>\r\n        <td>UK<\/td>\r\n        <td>Many UK master\u2019s programmes are completed in one year.<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td>Research and scholarships<\/td>\r\n        <td>USA<\/td>\r\n        <td>The USA has many universities with research and assistantship opportunities.<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td>Structured visa documentation<\/td>\r\n        <td>UK<\/td>\r\n        <td>CAS, funds and documents follow a clear Student Visa route.<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td>Strong interview confidence<\/td>\r\n        <td>USA<\/td>\r\n        <td>Good option if you can explain your study plan and funding clearly.<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td>Lower uncertainty in travel timing<\/td>\r\n        <td>Depends<\/td>\r\n        <td>Both routes require early planning, correct documents and intake timing.<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/tbody>\r\n  <\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>Checklist Before Applying<\/h2>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-checklist\">\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>Course Match:<\/strong><br>Your course should connect with your previous study and career plan.<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>Funds:<\/strong><br>Your financial documents should be genuine, clear and easy to explain.<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>I-20 \/ CAS:<\/strong><br>Check name, passport, course, fee, start date and funding details.<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>Interview Prep:<\/strong><br>Prepare natural answers about university, course, sponsor and future goals.<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>Documents:<\/strong><br>Keep academic documents, passport, financial proof and translations ready.<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"rv-check\"><strong>Timing:<\/strong><br>Apply early because appointments, CAS, I-20 and decisions can take time.<\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"rv-ad-box\">\r\n    <div class=\"rv-ad-label\">Advertisement<\/div>\r\n    <ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\r\n         style=\"display:block; text-align:center;\"\r\n         data-ad-layout=\"in-article\"\r\n         data-ad-format=\"fluid\"\r\n         data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-8539301469186278\"\r\n         data-ad-slot=\"7384169919\"><\/ins>\r\n    <script>\r\n         (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\r\n    <\/script>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-i20cas-section\">\r\n    <h2>FAQs: USA I-20 vs UK CAS 2026<\/h2>\r\n\r\n```\r\n<div class=\"rv-faq\">\r\n  <h3>Is I-20 the same as a USA student visa?<\/h3>\r\n  <p>No. I-20 is not a visa. It is an eligibility document issued by a SEVP-approved school. You still need to apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-faq\">\r\n  <h3>Is CAS the same as a UK Student Visa?<\/h3>\r\n  <p>No. CAS is not a visa. It is a sponsorship confirmation from a UK licensed student sponsor. You still need to submit and get approval for your Student Visa application.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-faq\">\r\n  <h3>Which is better for Pakistani students: USA or UK?<\/h3>\r\n  <p>It depends on your budget, course, scholarship, career goals and visa profile. USA can be better for research and long-term academic opportunities, while UK can be better for shorter courses and structured study routes.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-faq\">\r\n  <h3>Can I apply for USA visa without I-20?<\/h3>\r\n  <p>For F-1 or M-1 student visa, you need Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school before applying.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rv-faq\">\r\n  <h3>Can I apply for UK Student Visa without CAS?<\/h3>\r\n  <p>No. CAS is a required document for the UK Student Visa application.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n```\r\n\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-video-section\" id=\"video-guide\">\r\n    <h2>Watch Full Video Guide<\/h2>\r\n    <p>Watch this video for a detailed explanation of USA I-20 vs UK CAS, study abroad planning and student visa guidance for Pakistani students.<\/p>\r\n    <div class=\"rv-video-wrap\">\r\n      <iframe \r\n        src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/jf3eohO1Ivc\"\r\n        title=\"Study Abroad 2026 | USA I-20 vs UK CAS 2026 | Pakistani Students Ultimate Guide | Student Visa\"\r\n        allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\"\r\n        allowfullscreen\r\n        loading=\"lazy\"\r\n        referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\">\r\n      <\/iframe>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section class=\"rv-final-cta\">\r\n    <h2>Planning to Study Abroad in 2026?<\/h2>\r\n    <p>Get expert guidance for USA I-20, UK CAS, university selection, scholarships, documents and student visa preparation.<\/p>\r\n    <a class=\"rv-i20cas-btn rv-i20cas-btn-light\" href=\"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/free-assessment\/\">Book Free Counselling<\/a>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n<\/article>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\r\n{\r\n  \"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\r\n  \"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\r\n  \"mainEntity\":[\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\":\"Question\",\r\n      \"name\":\"Is I-20 the same as a USA student visa?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\":{\r\n        \"@type\":\"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\":\"No. I-20 is not a visa. It is an eligibility document issued by a SEVP-approved school. You still need to apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\":\"Question\",\r\n      \"name\":\"Is CAS the same as a UK Student Visa?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\":{\r\n        \"@type\":\"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\":\"No. CAS is not a visa. It is a sponsorship confirmation from a UK licensed student sponsor. You still need to submit and get approval for your Student Visa application.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\":\"Question\",\r\n      \"name\":\"Which is better for Pakistani students: USA or UK?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\":{\r\n        \"@type\":\"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\":\"It depends on your budget, course, scholarship, career goals and visa profile. USA can be better for research and long-term academic opportunities, while UK can be better for shorter courses and structured study routes.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\":\"Question\",\r\n      \"name\":\"Can I apply for USA visa without I-20?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\":{\r\n        \"@type\":\"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\":\"For F-1 or M-1 student visa, you need Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school before applying.\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\":\"Question\",\r\n      \"name\":\"Can I apply for UK Student Visa without CAS?\",\r\n      \"acceptedAnswer\":{\r\n        \"@type\":\"Answer\",\r\n        \"text\":\"No. CAS is a required document for the UK Student Visa application.\"\r\n      }\r\n    }\r\n  ]\r\n}\r\n<\/script>\r\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Confused between USA I-20 and UK CAS? Read this 2026 guide for Pakistani students covering student visa documents, fees, timelines, funds and common mistakes.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22880,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22873","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22873","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22873"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22873\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22879,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22873\/revisions\/22879"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22880"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22873"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22873"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.royalvision.com.pk\/new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22873"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}