Student Visas - Connect Immigration Globally

U.S. Student Visas: Achieve Your Academic Dreams in America

Many international students have made it their goal to study in the United States because of its high-quality education, diversified programs, and dynamic campus life. A student visa will be required to study legally in the U.S.

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From world-class universities and high schools to trade schools and specialized vocational programs, major US cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco have them all. Whether it’s for undergraduate study, graduate study, or technical training, getting the right student visa enables you to study and live safely and legally in America.

Types of U.S. Student Visas

F-1 Student Visa (Academic Studies)

The F-1 visa is designed for international students participating in full-time academic programs at SEVP-approved schools. It encompasses all levels of education, from primary and secondary schools to colleges, universities, and language training programs.

Eligibility: Applicants must have an admission offer from an SEVP-certified school, prove English proficiency, demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses, and show strong ties to their home country.
Duration: F-1 visas are valid for the duration of the program plus an additional 60-day grace period following the end of the program.
Work Authorization: During the first year, F-1 students can work on campus. After their first year in school, students are eligible for CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT extensions to apply their knowledge in a work environment relevant to their field of study.

M-1 Student Visa (Vocational or Non-Academic Studies)

The M-1 visa is for students attending non-academic, vocational, or technical programs that do not lead to a degree. Programs can include trade schools, technical institutes, and other specialized training institutions.

Eligibility: A student must be enrolled in an SEVP-approved vocational school, demonstrate financial resources, maintain English proficiency, and show strong ties to one's home country.
Duration: M-1 visas are valid for the duration of the training program plus an optional 30-day grace period for departure.
Work Authorization: M-1 students are not permitted to work while studying except in limited, on-campus opportunities. Practical training can only be done after program completion and must be authorized by the DSO.

F-1 vs M-1 Student Visa

Feature
F-1 Visa
M-1 Visa
Type of Study
Academic programs: school, college, university, and language
Vocational or non-academic programs (technical or trade schools)
Work Options
On-campus, CPT, OPT, STEM OPT
Limited on-campus during study; practical training only after completion
Duration
Program length + 60-day grace period

Eligibility

An SEVP-approved academic institution, sufficient funds, strong home ties

Visa Application and Processing

Application Process

Get admitted to a SEVP-certified institution.
Fill out the DS-160 visa application form online.
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and schedule a visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Provide supporting documents such as financial statements, transcripts, a passport, and proof of intent to return to the home country.

Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on:

Common Reasons for Visa Denial

While many applications are approved, the following are common reasons for refusal:

Incomplete or inaccurate applications
Insufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
Lack of strong ties to the home country
Previous immigration violations
Conflicts in travel documentation
Criminal history or security concerns
Suspicion of fraudulent intent or misrepresentation
Health-related issues
Poor supporting evidence
Failure to attend the scheduled interview

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the F-1 visa valid?

F-1 visas are generally valid for the duration of your academic program plus 60 days. The exact period is outlined in your I-94 form, which indicates authorized stay in the U.S.

When can I enter the U.S. on an F-1 visa?

You may enter up to 120 days before your program start date, although some consulates may limit entry to 30 days before.

Can I work while on an F-1 visa?

F-1 students can work on-campus during their first year. After that, they may qualify for CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT extensions, all of which require DSO and USCIS authorization.