US Student Visas (F-1 Visa)

A non-immigrant visa that allows international students to enter the United States to attend academic institutions such as colleges, universities, high schools, language training programs, or other academic institutions.

Eligibility

A student applying for an F-1 visa must:

• be accepted by a SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)-approved school.
• enroll as a full-time student.
• prove sufficient financial resources.
• have the intent to return to your home country after completing your studies.

Application Process

• Apply to and receive an admission offer from a school certified by the SEVP.
• After admission, the school will send you Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
• Pay the SEVIS fee ($350 as of 2025) and keep the confirmation receipt for the visa interview.
• Fill out the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application online and print the confirmation page.
• Schedule an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
• While attending the Visa interview, bring the following documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Form I-20
  • DS-160 confirmation page
  • SEVIS fee receipt
  • Visa application fee payment receipt
  • Financial proof
  • Academic documents

If approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.

Maintaining F-1 Visa Status

Once you are in the US, you must follow strict rules to stay in legal status:

• Stay enrolled in a full-time program.
• Maintain satisfactory grades throughout the program.
• Keep your documents valid.
• Inform your Designated School Official (DSO) of a change of address, a change in major or education level, changes in financial situation, and employment or internship plans.
• Follow work authorization rules.
  • On-campus work: Up to 20 hours per week during school, full-time during breaks.
  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Must be part of your program.
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months after graduation (with STEM extension for eligible fields).

After finishing your program, you have a 60-day grace period to leave the US, apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training), transfer to another program/school, or change visa status.

Common Reasons for Losing F-1 Status

• Dropping below full-time enrollment without authorization.
• Unauthorized employment.
• Failing to maintain a valid I-20.
• Not informing the DSO of key changes.
• Overstaying your visa or grace period.