F-1 Visa Eligibility and Application

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:
  1. Apply to a SEVP-approved school and receive an acceptance letter
  2. Pay the SEVIS fee (I-901 fee)
  3. Complete Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
  4. 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