F-1 Visa

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What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 Visa is a non-immigrant student visa type issued by the US Embassy/Consulate for students coming from abroad to pursue their studies at a school, college, seminary, or conservatory in the US. After completing their studies, F-1 visa holders are allowed to stay in the US for up to 60 days, unless they apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). If an F-1 visa holder chooses to apply for OPT, they may be permitted to work in the US for an additional two years if their Master's major is in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM).

It is important to note that any extension of visa status can only be processed within the US.

Through this guide, let us understand F-1 Visa more in detail through the below:

Eligibility

The requirements of an F-1 Visa are:

  • In order to be eligible for an F-1 Visa, you must obtain an offer letter from a SEVP-approved educational institution in the US. These institutions are not limited to universities, but may also include high schools, seminaries, private elementary schools, conservatories, or language programs.
  • Enrollment in a SEVP-approved institution as a full-time student is mandatory.
  • English language proficiency test results or be enrolled in courses that will lead to achieving English proficiency.
  • Demonstrate a strong connection to your home country by emphasizing your intentions and compelling reasons for returning home upon completion of the program, as the F-1 visa is a temporary visa.
  • Provide evidence of adequate financial resources to support your studies in the United States.
  • Submit your F-1 Visa application while residing outside of the United States.

Documentation

Below listed are the documents that are mandatory for F-1 visa application:

  • Academic Certificates & Transcripts of previous degree(s).
  • Two Passport Photos (as per requirement)
  • IELTS/TOEFL Scores
  • GRE/GMAT Scores
  • Offer Letter from SEVP-approved institution
  • I-20 Form
  • DS-160 Form
  • Financial Resources Proof
  • Passport
  • Application Fee Payment Receipt
  • A letter demonstrating a clear intention to leave the US upon completion of the program.

Process

The first step in obtaining an F-1 visa is to apply to a SEVP-approved institution. There are nearly 15,000 universities and colleges on the SEVP list, and only students enrolled in these institutions are eligible for an F-1 visa.

Once enrolled in a SEVP-approved institution, you will need to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $350 and be enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

After paying the SEVIS fee, your school will issue you an I-20 form, also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status for Academic and Language Students. This form is required at the time of your visa interview. If you are traveling with a spouse or children, they will need their own I-20 form, but they do not need to be registered in SEVIS if they are not part of the program.