If you’re an overseas national wanting to pursue a full-time course of studies in the USA, you may first need to apply for an F1 visa.

While studying in the US offers unparalleled educational, professional and wider life experience, securing that F1 visa requires more strategy and diligence than you might expect. The application process is strict, while the eligibility criteria are highly specific, requiring extensive evidence of financial support, academic objectives and proof of your intent to return to your home country after your studies.

The following guide for F-1 visa applicants looks at the various different aspects of this nonimmigrant visa, from what this visa category is and what it allows, to ways in which you can stay on in the USA on expiry of this visa.

 

Section A: What is the F1 visa?

 

The F1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa specifically designed for international students who wish to study full-time at accredited academic institutions in the United States. These institutions typically include universities, colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories and language training programs. To obtain an F1 visa, applicants must demonstrate that they intend to return to their home countries after completing their studies and have sufficient financial support for their stay.

The primary purpose of an F1 visa is to allow students to pursue academic coursework that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. Unlike visitor visas, which permit short-term recreational or business visits, the F1 visa provides long-term authorization for students actively engaged in full-time academic studies.

 

1. Differences Between F1, M-1, and J-1 Visas

 

Although the F1 visa is one of the most common student visas, it is distinct from two other types: the M-1 and J-1 visas. The M-1 visa caters exclusively to students enrolling in vocational or technical courses, which generally focus on practical training rather than academic degrees. While F1 students can often extend their stay through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT), M-1 students have more limited opportunities for practical training and shorter duration of allowable stay.

The J-1 visa, on the other hand, covers exchange visitors participating in approved cultural exchange programs. Such visitors include students, professors, researchers, and interns. J-1 visas emphasize cultural exchange and mutual understanding, often funded or sponsored by educational or governmental institutions. Unlike F1 visas, J-1 holders may be subject to the two-year home-country residency requirement, mandating that they return home for at least two years following their exchange program completion before qualifying for certain other US visas.

In summary, the F1 visa primarily supports academic education, M-1 visas are designated for vocational studies, and J-1 visas facilitate cultural exchange programs.

 

2. What does the F-1 visa allow?

 

The F1 visa will allow you to come to the USA as a full-time student at either an accredited college, university, school or other academic institution or on a language training program. You must be enrolled in a programme or course of study that results in either a degree, diploma or certificate, and your academic institution must be authorized to accept international students.

Once approved for an F-1 visa, this will allow you to study on a qualifying full-time course in the United States for the length of that course. Eligible dependents may be able to join you under the F2 visa route.

 

 

Section B: F1 visa requirements

 

To qualify for an F1 visa, applicants must meet specific requirements:

 

• You must be enrolled in an academic educational or language-training program
• Your academic institution in the USA must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP)
• You must be enrolled as a full-time student at this institution
• You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in a course leading to English proficiency
• You must have sufficient available funds to support yourself during your entire proposed course of study in the USA, including tuition costs and living expenses
• You must maintain a residence and close ties abroad

 

 

1. Eligible institution

 

Applicants seeking an F1 visa must enroll in an accredited educational institution approved by the SEVP. Qualifying institutions typically include universities, colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories and accredited language-training programs.

It is important that students confirm their intended institution holds valid SEVP certification, as only these institutions can issue the Form I-20 necessary for the F1 visa application.

 

2. Full-time study requirements

 

F1 visa applicants are required to pursue full-time studies, maintaining enrollment in the minimum number of credits or instructional hours as determined by their academic institution. For most undergraduate and graduate programs, full-time study usually means enrollment in at least 12 credit hours per semester for undergraduate students or 9 credit hours per semester for graduate students.

Exceptions to the full-time requirement are generally limited to specific circumstances such as medical conditions, and these must be formally authorized by the educational institution.

 

3. Financial support criteria

 

Applicants must demonstrate the financial capability to cover tuition, living expenses and other related costs throughout their entire study period in the US. Acceptable documentation typically includes personal or family bank statements, financial affidavits, scholarship or sponsorship letters or loan approvals.

Immigration officers will review financial documentation to ensure that students will not become dependent on public funds or unauthorized employment while studying in the United States.

 

4. English Proficiency Requirements (TOEFL/IELTS)

 

Most US academic institutions require international students to provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The specific score requirements vary depending on the institution and academic program.

While immigration officials do not explicitly mandate English test scores for the F1 visa, evidence of sufficient language proficiency is essential for admission to most schools and can be scrutinized during the visa interview process.

 

Section C: How to apply for an F-1 visa

 

The first step to obtaining your F-1 visa is to apply to a SEVP-approved academic institution. Once that institution has accepted your enrolment, you will then be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), at which stage the institution will issue you with a Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.

SEVIS is a database managed by the US Department of Homeland Security that tracks the status of international students. The SEVIS fee payment generates an official receipt required at the visa interview and the U.S. port of entry.

After you receive your Form I-20 and register in SEVIS, you may apply at a US Embassy or Consulate for an F-1 visa using Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.

The DS-160 is an electronic nonimmigrant visa application form required by US embassies and consulates. It includes questions related to your personal background, educational history, intended program of study, travel plans, and financial circumstances. Once the form is completed, print out the confirmation page, as you must present this at your visa interview.

As part of the application process, you will need to schedule an appointment for an interview. Your Form I-20 and proof of your SEVIS fee payment should be presented to the consular officer when you attend your visa interview, together with any other supporting documents.

You pay the SEVIS Form I-901 fee through the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website, and this must be done at least 3 days prior to your consular interview. You must also make sure that the biographical details on your Form I-20 are correct; contact your designated school official (DSO) if there any mistakes. Any Form I-20 errors must be amended as soon as possible and before you apply for your F-1 visa.

 

Step	Key Information
Step 1: Secure an offer from a US institution	Select and apply to a SEVP-approved institution; obtain official acceptance and SEVIS registration.
Step 2: Receive Form I-20	Obtain I-20 form from your school; review carefully for accuracy.
Step 3: Pay the SEVIS fee	Pay SEVIS fee online at least 3 days before visa interview.
Step 4: Complete form DS-160	Fill out the DS-160 form online; print confirmation page.
Step 5: Attend visa interview	Schedule and attend interview at US embassy; bring passport, I-20, SEVIS receipt, DS-160 confirmation, and financial documents.

 

F2 visa for F1 visa dependents

 

If your spouse and any children under the age of 21 years old wish to accompany or follow to join you in the United States for the duration of your stay as an F1 student, they may be eligible to apply for derivative status as an F-2 nonimmigrant.

If your spouse and children plan to live with you in the USA while you study, they must also enrol in SEVIS, each obtaining individual Form I-20s from your SEVP-approved institution before applying for their F-2 visa(s). However, there will be no Form I-901 SEVIS fee due for either a dependent spouse or child seeking permission for F-2 derivative status.

 

Section D: F-1 visa supporting documents

 

In addition to your Form I-20 and proof of your SEVIS fee payment, there are a number of documents that you will need to have with at your visa appointment, as per the following table:

 

Document	Description
Valid Passport	Must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay.
Form I-20	Certificate of Eligibility provided by your US institution.
SEVIS Fee Receipt	Proof of SEVIS I-901 fee payment ($350).
DS-160 Confirmation	Confirmation page from online visa application form.
Financial Documents	Bank statements, sponsorship letters, scholarship proof.
Passport-Sized Photo	One recent photo meeting US visa standards.

 

 

You may also be asked for evidence of funds sufficient to cover all expenses, including tuition fees, as well as proof of close ties and commitments to a country other than the USA to ensure that you will depart once your F-1 visa expires. This could include evidence of family, professional, property, employment or other ties to another country.

The primary document required for your F1 visa application is a valid passport. Your passport must have a validity date that extends at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. You also need to present your Form I-20, which confirms acceptance by your chosen US  institution and details your study program. Another necessary item is the DS-160 confirmation page, generated upon completion of your online nonimmigrant visa application form.

You will also need to present the official receipt confirming your SEVIS fee payment. Consular officers require financial documents, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, loan approval notices, or scholarship confirmations, demonstrating your ability to support yourself financially throughout your stay. Applicants should also provide passport-sized photographs adhering strictly to U.S. visa photo specifications.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to provide additional documentation. This could include standardized test results such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, academic transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from previously attended institutions. Documentation demonstrating strong ties to your home country, such as property records, employment letters, or evidence of family relationships, can further support your case.

When preparing your documentation, ensure all forms, especially your DS-160 and Form I-20, contain accurate, consistent information that matches precisely with your passport details. Discrepancies can result in delays or possible visa rejection. Place your documents in a clear, logical order, making them easy for the consular officer to review during your interview.

All financial evidence should be recent, ideally dated within the last three months, clearly showing the availability of funds necessary to cover tuition, living expenses and other related costs. Avoid submitting vague or unclear documents, as they can lead to unnecessary scrutiny or delay.

Preferably, you should bring original documents as well as copies, since consular officials may request originals to verify authenticity.

 

Section E: F-1 visa interview questions

 

Interviews are generally required for most F-1 visa applicants, where the interview questions will be designed to establish if you meet the F-1 eligibility criteria. In particular, the consular officer will be looking to see if you can overcome the presumption of immigrant intent, as required by United States law, by showing strong ties to another country to prove that you will leave the US at the end of your authorized stay.

You may also be asked about any criminal record or previous immigration violations. You must declare if you have ever been arrested, convicted or cautioned, as well as if you have ever been denied entry into, or deported from, the USA.

During the interview, you will likely encounter several standard questions regarding your academic plans and future goals. Typical questions include inquiries about why you chose your specific university or course of study, your educational background, how you plan to finance your studies, and your intentions after completing your program. Answer honestly, clearly, and succinctly, keeping responses specific and relevant. Provide concise explanations of your career goals, your reasons for studying in the United States, and your understanding of how the degree or course supports your future objectives. Avoid vague or overly general answers, as they may raise concerns about your sincerity or intentions.

 

Common Interview Questions	Tips for Answering Effectively
Why did you choose this university?	Mention specific features like the program’s reputation, professors, research opportunities, or unique courses relevant to your career goals.
Why do you want to study in the US?	Explain the advantages of the US educational system, such as advanced facilities, diverse learning environment, or specialized degree programs.
What are your future career plans?	Clearly link your academic goals to your future career, emphasizing how the degree will support your long-term objectives in your home country.
Who is funding your education?	Provide accurate details about your financial support, such as personal savings, family support, scholarships, or loans.
Do you intend to return to your home country after your studies?	Confirm clearly, explaining your ties to your home country like family obligations, job opportunities, or property ownership.
Why did you choose this specific program/course?	Describe how the course aligns with your academic background and supports your career aspirations.
Have you traveled to the US before?	Answer honestly and briefly; include purpose and duration of any previous visits if applicable.
What will you do if your visa is denied?	Express your commitment to your educational goals and indicate you would clarify or strengthen your application and reapply.

 

A critical part of the visa interview is convincing the consular officer of your strong connections to your home country, confirming that you intend to return home upon completion of your studies. Demonstrating these ties often includes discussing family relationships, employment opportunities, or financial commitments awaiting you in your home country. Present clear evidence, such as family responsibilities, property ownership, or employment letters, that indicate your intention to return after your educational goals are fulfilled. Emphasize specific plans for utilizing your American education in your home country, reinforcing your intent to return home.

On your interview day, arrive early to avoid feeling rushed or stressed. Dress appropriately and professionally, ensuring a neat and presentable appearance. Maintain a polite, respectful demeanor during your interaction with consular officers. Bring all necessary documentation, carefully organized for easy review.

Avoid providing overly detailed or irrelevant information that could lead to confusion. Instead, offer clear, straightforward responses directly addressing the questions asked. Never present false or exaggerated information, as any inconsistency or dishonesty can result in immediate rejection of your application. Finally, remain calm and courteous throughout the process, listening carefully and responding confidently to each question posed by the consular officer.

 

Section F: F1 Visa Processing Times and Fees

 

Applicants for the F1 visa must factor current processing times and required fees into their planning to avoid disruptions in their academic schedules.

 

1. F1 visa processing times

 

As of 2025, F1 visa processing times vary depending on the US consulate or embassy handling the application. Generally, most consulates complete the processing within approximately five to seven business days following the visa interview. However, certain applications may experience extended delays due to administrative processing, which can add several weeks or occasionally months.

Applicants are advised to schedule their visa appointments well ahead of their intended departure date and regularly check the Department of State’s official website for the most accurate, location-specific processing times.

 

2. F1 visa fees

 

The application for an F1 visa involves several mandatory fees. The SEVIS I-901 fee, which supports the operation of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), is set at $350 and must be paid before the visa interview.

Each applicant must pay a non-refundable visa application fee (DS-160 fee) of $185 when scheduling the interview appointment. In some cases, depending on nationality and reciprocity agreements between countries, an additional visa issuance fee may be required upon approval. Applicants should check the latest reciprocity schedules provided by the Department of State to determine whether such a fee applies to their specific country of citizenship.

 

Fee Type	Cost (USD)	Payment Timing
SEVIS I-901 Fee	$350	Before scheduling visa interview
Visa Application (DS-160)	$185	When scheduling visa interview
Visa Issuance Fee	Varies by nationality	After visa approval, if applicable

 

Receipts for all fees paid must be retained, as consular officials typically require proof of payment during the visa interview.

 

Section G: Common reasons for F1 visa denial

 

F1 visa applications may be denied for various reasons, most commonly related to inadequate preparation or unclear documentation. Awareness of these reasons allows applicants to take proactive measures, increasing their likelihood of a successful outcome.

 

Reason for Denial	How to Avoid
Insufficient Financial Evidence	Provide recent bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship documentation clearly covering all costs.
Unclear Academic Plans	Clearly explain your course choice and how it relates to your career goals.
Lack of Home Country Ties	Provide documentation of family obligations, property, employment prospects, or clear return plans.

 

 

1. Insufficient financial evidence

 

One frequent cause of F1 visa denial is the failure to provide adequate proof of financial support. Applicants must clearly demonstrate the availability of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and related costs for the entire duration of their study in the United States. Consular officers scrutinize bank statements, sponsorship letters, loan approvals, and scholarship documentation. To avoid issues, applicants should submit clear and recent financial evidence, ideally within the last three months, detailing sources and availability of funds. Vague or incomplete financial documents often lead to rejection or further questioning by the visa officer.

 

2. Unclear academic or career plans

 

Consular officials closely assess the applicant’s academic objectives and long-term career goals. A common reason for visa refusal is the inability to clearly articulate a convincing purpose for studying in the United States or uncertainty regarding future career plans. Applicants should present specific information about their chosen program, including how it aligns with their academic background and professional aspirations. Consistency between prior educational experiences, intended studies, and career trajectory helps persuade visa officers of the applicant’s genuine intent to study rather than to seek unauthorized employment or immigration.

 

3. Inadequate demonstration of home country ties

 

Another primary reason for denial involves insufficient evidence that the applicant intends to return home upon completing their studies. U.S. immigration law requires that students show substantial connections to their home country, indicating a strong likelihood of returning after their education concludes. During the interview, students should clearly articulate their future plans, such as job prospects, family obligations, property ownership, or other binding commitments in their home country. Applicants who fail to convincingly demonstrate these connections typically face denial, as consular officers must be assured that applicants do not plan to overstay their visas. Providing relevant documentation, such as letters from employers, property deeds, or proof of family responsibilities, can significantly strengthen the case.

 

Section H: Can you work in US with an F-1 visa?

 

The primary purpose of the F-1 visa is to allow international students to undertake full-time academic studies in the United States. However, this visa category does include specific opportunities for employment both during and after studies, each governed by strict regulations to ensure compliance with visa conditions.

Depending on your academic program and circumstances, employment opportunities available to F-1 visa holders include on-campus work, off-campus employment (in limited circumstances), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

 

 

Employment Type	Eligibility	Work Hours Allowed
On-Campus Employment	All enrolled F1 students	20 hrs/week during term, 40 hrs/week during breaks
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)	After completing one academic year, school approval required	Part-time or full-time, based on academic program
OPT (Optional Practical Training)	After completing degree or during studies	Full-time after graduation, part-time during studies

 

 

1. On-campus work

 

F-1 students can legally work part-time—up to 20 hours per week—on-campus while classes are in session. Positions typically include roles at the school’s library, dormitories, cafeterias, administrative offices, or as research assistants to faculty members. Work performed at an off-campus location directly affiliated with the educational institution also qualifies.

During official school breaks and holidays, students may work full-time, up to 40 hours per week. Before starting employment, students must verify the eligibility of their job role with the Designated School Official (DSO). Additionally, securing employment requires obtaining an approval letter from both the DSO and the on-campus employer to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), which is mandatory for employment.

 

2. Off-campus work

 

Off-campus employment is only authorized under specific conditions, typically involving severe economic hardship resulting from unforeseen circumstances after enrollment, such as significant medical expenses or loss of financial support. To qualify, students will need to show they:

 

• Have completed one full academic year in F-1 status.
• Be enrolled in a full-time course of study.
• Be in good academic standing.
• Obtain authorization from both their DSO and USCIS.
• Demonstrate that employment will not negatively affect their full-time studies.

 

3. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

 

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to engage in off-campus internships or cooperative education placements that are integral to their established curriculum and directly related to their major. To be eligible for CPT, students must complete at least one academic year (except in specific graduate programs requiring immediate practical training) and secure authorization from both their academic advisor and the DSO.

CPT authorization is specific to the educational institution and duration set forth in the academic curriculum. Students who accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT become ineligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) upon graduation.

Students utilizing full-time CPT for a cumulative total of 12 months or more become ineligible for Optional Practical Training upon graduation.

 

3. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

 

Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides temporary employment authorization allowing F-1 students to gain practical experience directly related to their academic major. OPT may occur either during the program of study (pre-completion OPT) or after graduation (post-completion OPT). Post-completion OPT is more common and typically provides full-time employment authorization.

Standard OPT allows up to 12 months of employment authorization. Graduates in certain STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) may apply for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension, totaling up to 36 months of employment authorization. OPT requires approval by USCIS, with applications generally submitted several months before graduation or program completion. Students must carefully adhere to application timelines and employment regulations to maintain lawful status.

 

Section I: Can you stay in the USA after an F-1 visa?

 

If you will be looking to stay on in the USA on successful completion of your studies, you will need to consider your available options as a recent graduate. For example, you may be able to transfer to another academic institution and begin a new course of study or change your education level, for example, from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree.

If you fail to make a valid in-time application for another visa type, or fail to depart during your grace period, this could adversely impact your ability to re-enter the United States under a different nonimmigrant or immigrant classification in the future. It is therefore essential that you plan ahead if you are intending to stay on after your studies.

The OPT and H-1B visa options are just two of the potential work routes available to you as a graduate in the USA, where seeking expert advice from an immigration specialist specifically tailored to your circumstances is strongly recommended. After completing your academic program or authorized OPT, F-1 students are granted a 60-day grace period to prepare for departure from the United States, apply for a change of status, or enroll in a new academic program.

 

1. Transitioning from F1 to H1B

 

Many F1 students transition to H1B visas, allowing them to continue living and working in the United States after graduation. The H1B visa is a temporary employment visa designed for highly skilled workers with specialized knowledge or advanced degrees. To secure an H1B visa, an employer must sponsor the applicant, submit an application, and receive approval through a lottery system due to annual numerical caps. F1 students typically leverage their OPT period to bridge the gap until their H1B status takes effect. Proper timing is essential, as maintaining lawful status between OPT expiration and H1B activation often requires careful coordination with the employer and immigration services.

 

2. Further studies

 

Another common route for remaining in the United States involves enrolling in additional academic programs or transferring to different institutions. Students may pursue advanced degrees or other related fields of study, thus extending their F1 visa status through issuance of a new Form I-20. To change programs or institutions, students must apply and gain acceptance to the new school, obtain a new I-20 form, and notify the DSOs at both institutions. This process must be carefully timed and documented to maintain continuous lawful presence.

 

3. OPT Extension Options

 

Post-completion OPT permits up to 12 months of employment directly related to the student’s major. STEM graduates may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension, enabling up to 36 months total employment. To obtain the STEM OPT extension, graduates must receive USCIS approval, secure employment directly related to their STEM degree, and work for an employer enrolled in E-Verify.

OPT experience may facilitate connections leading to longer-term employment sponsorship. Employers might petition for H-1B status for eligible graduates meeting specialty occupation requirements.

 

4. Path to Green Card

 

Some F1 students explore options leading toward permanent residency (Green Card). Employment-based immigration categories, such as EB-2 (advanced degrees or exceptional ability) or EB-3 (professional workers), provide pathways toward permanent residence for qualified graduates.

However, these processes often involve substantial documentation, labor certifications and lengthy wait times. Take advice to clarify the best pathway for your circumstances, as well as the eligibility criteria and necessary steps for transitioning from F1 student status to permanent residency.

 

Section J: Summary

 

The US remains a leading destination for international students, offering exciting academic opportunities across diverse institutions and programs. However, obtaining an F1 visa involves structured rules and a detailed application process. Applicants must select an accredited institution, secure formal acceptance and obtain essential documents such as Form I-20. Financial evidence demonstrating the ability to cover tuition and living costs is mandatory, alongside proof of clear academic plans and strong ties to the home country.

Employment opportunities, such as OPT and CPT, are available but come with specific restrictions.

Take professional advice can help ensure you meet the eligibility and procedural requirements, to give your application the best chance of success.

 

Section K: Need assistance?

 

NNU Immigration are US visa specialists. For expert advice on your options to study in the USA, contact our attorneys for guidance on the eligibility requirements and application process.

 

Section K: F1 visa FAQs

 

What is an F1 visa?

An F1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to study full-time at accredited institutions in the US.

 

Who is eligible for an F1 visa?

Students accepted by a SEVP-approved school in the US who can demonstrate financial stability and intent to return to their home country after their studies.

 

How long can I stay in the US on an F1 visa?

You can stay for the duration of your academic program plus a 60-day grace period after completing your studies.

 

Can I work in the US on an F1 visa?

Yes, but with restrictions. On-campus work is allowed for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Off-campus work requires authorization.

 

What is OPT and CPT for F1 visa holders?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allow students to gain work experience in their field of study while on an F1 visa.

 

Can I bring dependents on an F1 visa?

Spouses and children can apply for an F2 visa, but they cannot work in the US.

 

What happens if my F1 visa expires?

Your visa expiration does not affect your legal stay as long as your I-20 remains valid and you maintain student status. To re-enter the US, you need a valid visa.

 

Can I change my status from F1 to another visa?

You can apply to change your status to a different visa type, such as H1B for employment or a Green Card through sponsorship.

 

What should I do if my F1 visa is denied?

You can reapply with additional supporting documents or address the reasons for denial stated by the consular officer.

 

How can I maintain my F1 visa status?

Maintain full-time enrollment, follow work regulations, update your SEVIS record, and avoid violating the terms of your visa.

 

F1 or M1 visa?

There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for those wanting to study in the United States: the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa. Your course of study and the type of institution that you are proposing to attend in the USA will determine whether you need an F-1 or an M-1 visa. The M-1 students are for those enrolling in vocational courses, while F-1 students are those enrolling in more traditional academic courses.

 

Section L: Glossary

 

 

Term	Definition
F1 Visa	A non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to study in the US at accredited institutions.
SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)	A US government program that monitors international students and the schools they attend.
SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System)	An online system used by the US Department of Homeland Security to track F1 visa holders and their school records.
I-20 Form	A document issued by SEVP-approved schools that confirms a student’s acceptance and eligibility for an F1 visa.
DS-160 Form	The online non-immigrant visa application form required for an F1 visa interview.
USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services)	The agency that oversees immigration processes, including F1 visa status changes.
Visa Interview	A mandatory interview at a US embassy or consulate where applicants must prove their intent to study and return home.
Grace Period	A 60-day period after program completion allowing students to prepare for departure or apply for a status change.
OPT (Optional Practical Training)	A temporary work authorization allowing F1 students to gain practical experience in their field of study.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training)	Work authorization for students to gain practical experience as part of their academic curriculum.
STEM OPT Extension	A 24-month extension of OPT available to students in eligible STEM fields.
Change of Status	The process of switching from an F1 visa to another visa type, such as H1B for employment.
F2 Visa	A dependent visa for spouses and children of F1 visa holders, allowing them to live in the US but not work.
Visa Renewal	The process of obtaining a new visa stamp to re-enter the US if the original F1 visa expires while traveling abroad.
Full-Time Enrollment	A requirement for F1 students to take a minimum number of credit hours per semester to maintain status.
On-Campus Employment	Part-time work at the student’s institution, limited to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
Off-Campus Employment	Work outside the school that requires special authorization, such as OPT or CPT.
D/S (Duration of Status)	The time a student is allowed to stay in the US as long as they maintain F1 status and have a valid I-20.

 

 

Section M: Additional Resources

 

U.S. Department of State – Student Visas
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html
Official U.S. government information on F1 student visas, application procedures, and interview guidance.

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
https://www.uscis.gov/
Government agency managing immigration services including OPT, CPT, and visa status adjustments.

 

Study in the States (Department of Homeland Security)
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/
DHS website providing guidance for international students on maintaining lawful status and SEVIS information.

 

SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Portal
https://fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html
Official site for payment of the mandatory SEVIS I-901 fee required for F1 visa applicants.

 

EducationUSA
https://educationusa.state.gov/
U.S. Department of State-supported network providing detailed advice about studying in the United States.

 

Institute of International Education (IIE)
https://www.iie.org/
Non-profit organization providing data, resources, and support to international students studying in the United States.

 

Visa Appointment Wait Times
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/global-visa-wait-times.html
Current wait times for visa appointments at U.S. consulates and embassies worldwide.

 

NAFSA: Association of International Educators
https://www.nafsa.org/
Professional association offering resources on international education, visa policies, and compliance.

 

Visa Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html
Database detailing additional visa issuance fees and documentation requirements by nationality.

 

TOEFL Official Website
https://www.ets.org/toefl
Information about the TOEFL exam, test preparation resources, and registration.