Student Visas Allowing Foreign Nationals to Legally Enter the U.S.
The United States offers several visa categories for foreign nationals intending to pursue education within its borders. Understanding these categories, their application processes, and the associated requirements is essential for prospective international students.
Types of Student Visas
- F-1 Visa: This visa is designated for individuals enrolling in academic programs at U.S. institutions such as colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, and language training programs. F-1 students must maintain a full course of study and are permitted to work on-campus; certain off-campus employment opportunities may also be available under specific conditions.
- M-1 Visa: Intended for students pursuing non-academic or vocational studies, the M-1 visa requires enrollees to engage in a full course of study. Unlike F-1 students, M-1 visa holders are generally not permitted to work during their studies.
- J-1 Visa: The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa caters to individuals participating in approved exchange programs, which can include academic studies, research, and teaching. Participants must be accepted into a qualifying program and are subject to specific regulations, including potential home-country residency requirements upon completion of the program.
Application Process
To apply for a U.S. student visa, applicants should follow these steps:
- Acceptance by a SEVP-Certified Institution: Secure admission to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Upon acceptance, the institution’s Designated School Official (DSO) will issue the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” which is essential for the visa application.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee: Before applying for the visa, pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee, which funds the administration of the SEVP. This fee must be paid prior to the visa interview.
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) accurately. This form collects personal, educational, and security-related information and is a prerequisite for scheduling a visa interview.
- Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview: Arrange an appointment with the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, a consular officer will assess your application and determine your eligibility for the student visa.
Maintaining Visa Status
Once in the United States, student visa holders must adhere to specific regulations to maintain their status:
- Full Course of Study: F-1 undergraduate students must enroll in at least 12 credit hours per term, while M-1 students are required to maintain a full course load as defined by their program.
- Employment Restrictions: F-1 students may work on-campus and, in certain situations, off-campus with authorization. M-1 students, however, are generally prohibited from employment during their studies.
- Program Changes and Transfers: F-1 students have the flexibility to change their major or transfer to another institution. In contrast, M-1 students cannot change their program of study or transfer after six months from the start date.
