Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of an F-1 visa?
What is the primary purpose of an F-1 visa?
What is the minimum validity of a passport required for an F-1 visa application?
What is the minimum validity of a passport required for an F-1 visa application?
What is the purpose of Form I-20?
What is the purpose of Form I-20?
What is the primary topic of discussion during a visa interview?
What is the primary topic of discussion during a visa interview?
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What is the maximum number of hours an F-1 student can work on-campus?
What is the maximum number of hours an F-1 student can work on-campus?
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What is required for off-campus employment?
What is required for off-campus employment?
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What is the purpose of the mandatory orientation program?
What is the purpose of the mandatory orientation program?
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What is the eligibility criteria for F-2 dependents?
What is the eligibility criteria for F-2 dependents?
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What is the primary requirement for maintaining F-1 status?
What is the primary requirement for maintaining F-1 status?
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What is the benefit of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
What is the benefit of Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
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Study Notes
Eligibility and Application
- F-1 visa is for international students who want to pursue academic studies in the United States
- Eligibility:
- Accepted into a SEVP-approved school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)
- Enrolled in a full-time program
- Sufficient financial resources
- Proficient in English or enrolled in an English language training program
- Application steps:
- Apply to a SEVP-approved school and receive an acceptance letter
- Pay the SEVIS fee (I-901 fee)
- Complete Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
- Apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate
Documents Required
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- Form I-20 (issued by the school)
- Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statement, scholarship award letter)
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
- Proof of payment for the SEVIS fee
Visa Interview
- Schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
- Be prepared to answer questions about:
- Academic background and goals
- Financial resources
- English language proficiency
- Intent to return to home country after studies
After Arrival
- Report to the school and register for classes
- Attend a mandatory orientation program
- Maintain a full-time course load
- Update the school about any changes to address or dependent information
Work Authorization
- F-1 students are eligible for on-campus employment (up to 20 hours/week)
- Off-campus employment requires prior authorization from USCIS (Form I-765)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) available after completing studies
Dependents
- F-2 visa for spouses and unmarried children under 21
- Dependents can accompany the F-1 student or enter the U.S. later
- Dependents are not eligible for work authorization
Eligibility and Application
- F-1 visa is for international students pursuing academic studies in the US
- Eligibility criteria:
- Accepted into a SEVP-approved school
- Enrolled in a full-time program
- Sufficient financial resources
- Proficient in English or enrolled in an English language training program
- Application steps:
- Apply to a SEVP-approved school and receive an acceptance letter
- Pay the SEVIS fee (I-901 fee)
- Complete Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
- Apply for an F-1 visa at a US embassy or consulate
Documents Required
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- Form I-20 (issued by the school)
- Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statement, scholarship award letter)
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
- Proof of payment for the SEVIS fee
Visa Interview
- Schedule an interview at a US embassy or consulate
- Prepare to answer questions about:
- Academic background and goals
- Financial resources
- English language proficiency
- Intent to return to home country after studies
After Arrival
- Report to the school and register for classes
- Attend a mandatory orientation program
- Maintain a full-time course load
- Update the school about any changes to address or dependent information
Work Authorization
- F-1 students are eligible for on-campus employment (up to 20 hours/week)
- Off-campus employment requires prior authorization from USCIS (Form I-765)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available after completing studies
Dependents
- F-2 visa for spouses and unmarried children under 21
- Dependents can accompany the F-1 student or enter the US later
- Dependents are not eligible for work authorization
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Description
Learn about the eligibility criteria and application process for international students seeking to pursue academic studies in the United States on an F-1 visa.
