How Foreign Nationals Can Obtain an F-1 Visa to Study in the U.S.

Foreign nationals interested in attending a U.S. educational institution are required to obtain an F-1 visa, a nonimmigrant visa that is also known as a “student visa.” These visas are available only for full-time students who plan to study at an accredited university, college, seminary, conservatory, high school, elementary school, vocational school or who are enrolled in a language-training program.

The requirements for an F-1 visa include:

• Enrollment in an “academic” educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program.
• The educational institution must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement.
• Enrollment as a full-time student at the institution.
• Proficiency in English or enrollment in courses leading to English proficiency.
• Have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study.
• Maintenance of a residence abroad where the student will return upon completion of his/her studies.

F-1 visa applicants typically apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country, although you can apply at any U.S. consular office abroad. All applicants are required to submit a completed Form DS-160. Male students aged 16-45 are also required to submit a Form DS-157. All applicants must also have a passport that is valid for travel to the U.S. for at least six months beyond their intended period of stay.

In addition, F-1 visa applicants must participate in an in-person interview, which typically include questions about your academic qualifications and why you have chosen to study in the U.S. You will also need to bring all your required paperwork to the interview that shows you meet the above requirements for obtaining an F-1 visa.

To maintain your F-1 visa, you will be required to be a full-time student and cannot work off-campus during your stay in the U.S. If you work during your stay as a student, your visa will be revoked and you will have to leave the U.S.