Apply for a F-1 Student Visa

Unlock your academic future in the U.S. with the F-1 student visa. Whether you're pursuing a degree, learning English, or expanding your global experience, the F-1 visa is your key to studying at accredited U.S. institutions.

What Is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for international students who wish to study full-time at an accredited U.S. school, college, university, or language training program. This visa allows students to remain in the U.S. for the duration of their academic program and offers opportunities for on-campus work and post- completion training.

Eligibility Requirements for an F-1 Visa To qualify, you must:

Be accepted by a SEVP-certified U.S. school
Plan to study full-time
Have English proficiency or take language courses
Show financial ability to cover tuition, living, and travel
Prove intent to return home after your studies

How to Apply for an F-1 Visa

Get Accepted by a SEVP-Approved Institution

Receive your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from the school.

Pay the SEVIS Fee

Submit the I-901 SEVIS fee payment and keep the confirmation.

Complete the DS-160 Form

Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and upload your photo.

Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview

Attend your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Bring:

›Form I-20

›DS-160 confirmation

›SEVIS fee receipt

›Financial documentation

›Academic records

Receive Your Visa and Prepare to Travel

If approved, your visa will be stamped into your passport. You may travel to the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date.

Work Opportunities for F-1 Students

F-1 visa holders have limited but valuable opportunities to gain U.S. work experience:

On-Campus Employment

You may work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks at your school without additional authorization.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows you to work in a job related to your major during your studies. It must be authorized by your DSO and noted on your I-20.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT permits you to work for up to 12 months post-graduation (or 36 months for eligible STEM graduates). Apply early through USCIS.

Common F-1 Visa Challenges and How to Avoid Them

Visa Denial:

Often due to lack of documentation or failure to prove ties to your home country.

Status Violations:

Dropping below full-time enrollment or working without authorization can lead to termination of your SEVIS record.

Overstaying Your Visa:

Always follow the guidelines of your I-20 and visa expiration.

Maintaining Your F-1 Visa Status

Once in the U.S., it's crucial to maintain legal F-1 status. Here's how:

Maintain Full-Time Enrollment:

Always take a full course load as required by your program.

Keep Your Documents Updated:

Ensure your passport, I-20, and visa are valid. Report any changes to your DSO (Designated School Official).

Avoid Unauthorized Employment:

Only work with proper authorization (see above).

Obtain Approval Before Taking Time Off:

You must receive permission before reducing your course load or taking a leave of absence.