- International Student
- Study Centers
- Study in the USA
- Preparation
- Student Visas
Anyone who will be studying in the United States could be issued one of the three following visa types forinternational students: F1 Visa, J1 Visa or M1 Visa. You maybe asking, “What visa do you need to work as an international student in the US?”. The F1 and J1 Visas allow forthe possibility of employment but does not guarantee it. The M1 Visa, however, does not allow for the possibilityof employment. We’ve broken down each of these three types of international student visas so that you can getfamiliar with them and how they will impact your life in the US.
Types of International Student Visas
- F1 Visa
Academic Studies - The "F" visa is for academic studies. AnF1 visa is issued to studentswho are attending an academic program or English Language Program. F1 visas are by far the most common form ofinternational student visa in the U.S. F1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time studentstatus. F1 status allows for part-time, on-campus employment (fewer than 20 hours per week). Additionally,students can work onoptional practical training (OPT)for up to one year after completion of their academic program. Students are expected to complete their studiesby the expiration date on the I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status).
Learn more about the F1 Student Visa
- J1 Visa
Practical Training - A J1 visa is issued to studentswho need to obtain practical training that is not available in their home country to complete their academicprogram. J-1 student status allows for similar employment as the F1 visa, with similar restrictions, as long aspermission is given by the exchange visitor program sponsor.
Learn more about the J1 Student Visa
- M1 Visa
Non-Academic /
Vocational Studies - An M1 visa is issued to a studentwho is going to attend a non-academic or vocational school. M-1 visa holders for technical and vocationalprograms are not permitted to work during the course of their studies. The M-1 student visa applicants must haveevidence that sufficient funds are immediately available to pay all tuition and living costs for the entireperiod of intended stay.
Learn more about the M1 Student Visa
The US Visa system can be extremely difficult and complicated to navigate. Please be sure to visitour immigration center which will provide you with more detailedinformation about specific student visa's for the USA.
Living with your Student Visa in the USA
As you begin to think about funding sourcesfor your educational and living expenses in the United States, remember that you cannot count onworking in the United States unless you have been granted a teaching or research assistantship.Immigration regulations are very strict with respect to working while carrying a student visa, and when yousubmit evidence of your financial resources, you cannot rely on potential income. The income on which youbase your application must be assured, and it must be equal to or exceed the costs of the first year of yourstudies.
Careful long-term and short-term planning is necessary to ensure that you will have a rewarding educationalexperience in the United States. If you are realistic about your financial needs, you will be better able toenjoy the exciting academic and cultural experience of living and learning in the United States.
Be sure to start exploring your funding options and establish your budget well before you plan tostart your studies abroad!
Create a Budget
The International Student scholarships database contains frequently updated information aboutscholarships, grants and assistantships. If you are considering a research or teachingassistantship, please search the available options.
Searchfor Assistantships
Applying for your Visa
When putting together your application for a student visa, you will first need to research the admission policy foryour university. Keep the following items in mind:
- Academic Eligibility
Every school has different academic eligibility criteria. Your school will tell you what their requirementsare. If you are still in the process of researching different schools, you can use the USA School Search to research general academic standing and testscores.
- Financial Stability
You will need to show that you can support yourself without having to work.
- Health Insurance
You may have to show proof of health insurance in order tocover any medical expenses shouldyou need any medical assistance.
Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S.consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.
Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
For detailed application information and help preparing for your visa interview, please visit theF1 Visa Application processsection.
Your arrival at the United States Port of Entry
You need to be aware that even if your visa is granted, it does not guarantee your entry into the United States. Itis ultimately up to the CBP [Customs and Border Protection] to letyou into the United States. It is also the job of the CBP to determine how long you may remain in the United States.
At the port of entry, a CBP official validates Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure, which notes the length ofstay permitted. This will be a small white card issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon your entry to theU.S. The form I-94 is your permit to stay in the U.S.
How Long You Can Stay in the US After Graduation
Per US immigration law, students with F visas must leave the US within 60 days after the program end date that islisted on Form I-20. Students with J and M visa status must leave the US within 30 days after the program end datethat is listed on Form I-20. However, if you wish to extend your stay in the US, you may request a visa extensionthrough the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Before requesting a visa extension, werecommend exploring yourvisa options after graduation.
How You Can Change Your Visa Status
While living in the US, your plans may change and you might have to change your visa status. If you wish to dothis at any time while living in the US, you do not have to apply for a new visa. You must request to change yournonimmigrant status through USCIS. We recommend that you notify your Designated School Official (DSO) about yourdesire to change as it’s important that your school is aware of any changes to your nonimmigrant status, and yourDSO can help you through the process.
After determining your student visa situation, you should carefully examine the healthcare options available to youwhile studying in the USA.Learn More
Preparation
