Student visas

Studying in the United States opens doors to a quality education and international opportunities. To do so legally, international students must apply for a nonimmigrant visa, primarily an F-1 or M-1 visa, depending on the type of study.

Types of Student Visas

F-1 Visa: Academic and Language Studies

The F-1 visa is intended for foreign nationals who do not intend to immigrate permanently and who wish to pursue full-time studies at educational institutions accredited by the United States government. This includes:

Universities and colleges.

Secondary schools.

Academies, seminaries and conservatories.

English Language Learning (ESL) Programs.

Family members with F-1 visas

The spouse of an F-1 visa holder may accompany him or her on an F-2 visa, but may not study or work in the U.S.

Unmarried children under the age of 21 may travel with an F-2 visa and attend elementary or secondary school (up to 12th grade), but not college or university.

Important:

This visa cannot be used to study in public primary schools or in publicly funded adult programs.

It is mandatory to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20) issued by the institution before applying for the visa.

M-1 Visa: Vocational or Technical Education

The M-1 visa is an alternative for those wishing to study in vocational or technical programs at non-academic institutions. Unlike the F-1 visa:

Language study is not permitted with this visa.

It is aimed at non-university technical or specialized careers.

It also requires a Form I-20 issued by the institution.

General Requirements for F-1 and M-1

Be admitted to an institution approved by the SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).

Have sufficient funds to cover studies and maintenance.

Maintain a full academic load.

Not having the intention of immigrating permanently.

Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and complete Form DS-160.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I work on an F-1 visa?

Yes, but with restrictions. During the first academic year, you can only work on campus. After that, you may be eligible to work off campus under specific programs such as:
–> OPT (Optional Practical Training) – related to your studies.
–> CPT (Curricular Practical Training) – part of the curriculum.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1 visa?

You can stay as long as you have valid full-time student status and your I-20 is active. You also have a 60-day grace period after completing your program.

What happens if I change schools or programs?

You must update your I-20 with the new institution and notify USCIS. Failure to do so may jeopardize your immigration status.

Can I change my F-1 visa to a work or residency visa?

Yes, it is possible to change status (for example, to an H-1B visa or to apply for adjustment of status) if you meet the requirements. It is recommended to do so with legal counsel.

Does the M-1 visa allow you to work?

No. The M-1 visa does not allow off-campus work, and your internship options are very limited and highly regulated.

What happens if my visa expires but I continue studying?

As long as your Form I-20 and SEVIS status are active, you can legally remain in the U.S. even if the visa stamped in your passport has expired. However, if you leave the country, you will need a valid visa to re-enter.

Statement: The concepts explained should not be taken as legal advice, it is a compendium of public information from the INA.

In all cases, consultation with an attorney is recommended to determine your eligibility. At Immigration Document Preparers, we limit ourselves to submitting forms to USCIS correctly based on the information that the client provides us. We do not give advice or legal advice.