F-1 student visa 101: your key to studying in the USA

Applying for your F-1 visa is mandatory to travel to the US. Read our step-by-step guide to learn everything about F-1 student visa for the USA, F-1 visa rules, F-1 visa requirements, F-1 status, and more.

Jale

4 minute read

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27 Aug 2024

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Studying

If you’re planning to study in the United States, understanding the types of student visas in the USA is crucial. Among them, the F1 visa is the most common for international students.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything F1 visa, F1 visa rules, F1 visa requirements and all you need to know to successfully navigate the US student visa process.

The U.S. offers several types of student visas, depending on the nature of your studies and exchange programs. Here’s a brief overview of each:

1. F-1 visa

F-1 visa (academic students) is the most common visa for students attending a full-time academic or English language program at a U.S. college, university, or other accredited institution. This visa is specifically for academic studies.

2. J-1 visa

J-1 visa (exchange visitor) is for students participating in an exchange program, which might include high school and university study, internships, and professional training programs. The J-1 visa requires sponsorship by a U.S. government-approved organization.

3. M-1 visa

M-1 visa (nonacademic or vocational studies) is designed for students enrolled in vocational or non-academic programs, such as technical courses or other professional training that is not primarily academic.

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for international students who wish to pursue studies in the United States as full-time students at accredited institutions, including colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, academic high schools, and language training programs. The F1 visa is specifically for students pursuing a degree or certificate.

Your stay in the U.S. on an F1 visa lasts for the duration of your educational program, plus a 60-day grace period after the completion of your program. The actual length of your stay will depend on your program’s duration, which is specified on your Form I-20. You must maintain full-time student status to remain in the country.

To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Institution certification

You must be accepted into a program at a U.S. school that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The school must issue you a Form I-20, which is essential for your visa application.

Full-time enrollment

You must enroll as a full-time student in an academic program. Full-time status generally means 12 or more credits per semester for undergraduates or the required full-time course load for graduate students.

English language proficiency

You must demonstrate proficiency in English or be enrolled in courses that will lead to proficiency. Many universities require you to take standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Sufficient funding

You need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in the U.S. This is typically demonstrated through bank statements, scholarship awards, or a financial guarantee.

Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

Home country residency

You must prove that you have strong ties to your home country and intend to return after completing your studies.

The Form I-20 is a document issued by your U.S. educational institution that confirms your acceptance and provides important details about your program and funding. This form is essential for paying your SEVIS fee, applying for the F1 visa, and entering the U.S.

Applying for an F1 visa involves several steps, which you must complete to get your visa.

1. Get accepted and get your I-20

First, you need to be accepted into an SEVP-certified school. Once accepted, the school will issue you a Form I-20, which you’ll need to begin your visa application.

2. Pay your SEVIS fee

The SEVIS fee is a mandatory payment that funds the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must pay this fee before you apply for your visa.

3. Complete your DS-160 visa application

The DS-160 is an online visa application form that you must fill out and submit. After submitting it, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a barcode, which you’ll need for your visa interview.

4. Schedule your visa interview

Once you’ve completed the DS-160, schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The waiting times for interviews can vary, so it’s important to book early.

5. Attend your visa interview

Prepare for your interview by gathering all the necessary documents, including your Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, passport, and financial evidence.

During your F-1 visa interview, the consular officer will ask questions to determine your eligibility. They might ask about your academic background, reasons for studying in the U.S., plans after graduation, and financial situation.

You can expect the following questions during your visa interview:

• Why did you choose this university or program?
• How do you plan to finance your education?
• What are your career plans after graduation?
• Do you have any relatives in the U.S.?

Visa denials can happen if the consular officer believes you don’t meet the requirements or if they suspect that you intend to immigrate permanently. Common reasons for denial include insufficient financial resources, lack of ties to your home country, or inadequate preparation for the interview.

Once you’ve received your F-1 visa and arrived in the U.S., it’s crucial to maintain your status by following these guidelines:

When entering the USA:

• Present your Form I-20, F1 visa, and passport to the immigration officer.
• Make sure your Form I-20 is stamped and returned to you.

While studying in the USA:

• Maintain full-time enrollment each semester.
• Report any change of address or school to your Designated School Official (DSO) and update your SEVIS record.
• Refrain from doing unauthorized work or dropping below a full course load without permission.

Yes, F-1 visa holders can work in the U.S. under certain conditions. On-campus employment is allowed for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. You may also be eligible for off-campus work through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

You can work in the U.S. on an F-1 visa for the duration of your study program. After completing your studies, you may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM graduates). This period is separate from your study duration.

By understanding the F-1 visa requirements, you can successfully navigate the US study visa process and take the first steps toward your academic journey in the United States.