F-1 Student Visa (Academic Studies)

The F-1 Student Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study in the United States at accredited educational institutions. It is the most common visa for students pursuing full-time academic programs, including universities, colleges, high schools, seminaries, and conservatories.

Key Features of the F-1 Visa:

• Eligibility: Applicants must have an official acceptance from a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved institution in the U.S. and show proof of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other study-related costs.
• Form I-20: Once accepted, students receive Form I-20 – Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status from their school. This document is essential for both paying the SEVIS fee and applying for the visa.
• SEVIS Fee: All F-1 applicants must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before applying for their visa. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which tracks and monitors students during their stay.
• Application Process:
  1. Complete the online DS-160 visa application form.
  2. Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
  3. Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  4. Bring the Form I-20, SEVIS receipt, proof of financial ability, and academic records to the interview.
• Duration of Stay: F-1 visa holders are admitted to the U.S. for the duration of their academic program (D/S) as indicated on Form I-20, plus a 60-day grace period for preparation to depart or transfer schools.
• Work Opportunities: - On-Campus Employment: Up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. - OPT (Optional Practical Training): Up to 12 months of work authorization after completing a degree. - STEM OPT Extension: Students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields may extend OPT by an additional 24 months. - CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows work authorization as part of a course or internship directly related to the field of study.
• Dependents (F-2 Visa): Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of F-1 visa holders may accompany them under the F-2 visa category. F-2 dependents may study part-time but are not permitted to work in the United States.
• Maintaining Visa Status: F-1 students must remain enrolled full-time, make satisfactory academic progress, update their designated school official (DSO) of any address or program changes, and not engage in unauthorized employment.
• Extensions and Transfers: Students can request a program extension if more time is needed to complete their studies or transfer to another SEVP-approved institution with prior authorization from their DSO.
• Grace Periods: - 60 days to depart the U.S. after completing studies. - 15 days grace if withdrawing from the program early (with DSO approval).

The F-1 visa provides students with an excellent opportunity to access world-class education in the United States while gaining valuable cultural and professional experience. At Visa2Migrate, we simplify the process and guide applicants through every stage — from school acceptance to visa approval and travel preparation.