Types of U.S. Student Visas (F-1 and M-1)

1. What are the differences between an F-1 and M-1 student visa?


An F-1 student visa is for academic study, while an M-1 student visa is for vocational or non-academic study. An F-1 visa is issued to students attending a full-time accredited academic program in the United States, such as a college or university. An M-1 visa is issued to students who wish to attend a non-academic vocational program in the United States. An F-1 student visa holder will be allowed to work part-time on campus and can obtain an off-campus work permit after a certain period of time, while an M-1 student visa holder is not allowed to work at all. Additionally, F-1 students can apply for permanent residency status after completing their studies while M-1 students cannot.

2. What documents are required for an F-1 or M-1 student visa application?


The following documents are typically required for an F-1 or M-1 student visa application:

– Passport valid for travel to the United States
– Nonimmigrant visa application, Form DS-160
– Application fee payment receipt
– Photo of applicant
– SEVIS Form I-20
– Evidence of financial support
– Academic credentials and transcripts
– Results of a medical examination
– Proof of English language proficiency
– Proof of intent to depart from the US upon completion of studies

3. How long is an F-1 or M-1 student visa valid for?


An F-1 or M-1 student visa is typically valid for the length of the student’s program, plus an additional 60 days after the program’s completion.

4. How much does an F-1 or M-1 student visa cost?


The cost of the F-1 or M-1 student visa is $160. There may also be additional fees for processing, depending on your country of origin.

5. What activities are allowed and prohibited with an F-1 or M-1 student visa?


Activities Allowed with an F-1 or M-1 Student Visa:
-Study in an approved academic program at a U.S. college or university
-Take part in practical training related to the field of study
-Participate in an approved English language training program
-Engage in activities like seminars, workshops, and conferences related to the student’s field of study

Activities Prohibited with an F-1 or M-1 Student Visa:
-Engage in unauthorized employment or other types of work
-Participate in any type of illegal activities
-Stay in the U.S. beyond the period of authorized stay allowed on their visa
-Travel outside the U.S. without first obtaining a travel signature on their Form I-20

6. Is employed authorized with an F-1 or M-1 student visa?


No, an F-1 or M-1 student visa does not authorize employment.

7. Are dependents allowed to accompany a student on an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, dependents of an F-1 or M-1 student may apply for an F-2 or M-2 visa. Dependents are not allowed to work in the U.S. while on the visa but may study part-time.

8. How can a student transfer from an F-1 to an M-1 visa?


A student can transfer from an F-1 to an M-1 visa by going through a process called “Change of Status” through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This involves submitting a Form I-539, along with the applicable filing fee, proof of financial support, and other documents to demonstrate that the student meets the requirements for the M-1 visa. The request for transfer will be approved or denied by USCIS within several weeks.

9. Are there any restrictions on the length of study with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on the length of study with an F-1 or M-1 visa. The maximum amount of time an international student can be enrolled in an F-1 or M-1 visa program is three years. After three years, students must depart the U.S. for at least one year before they can apply for another F-1 or M-1 visa to return and continue their studies.

10. How long can a student remain in the U.S. after their studies with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


It depends on the student’s program, but in general, students with an F-1 or M-1 visa may remain in the U.S. for up to 60 days after their studies end.

11. What is the process for renewing an F-1 or M-1 student visa?


In order to renew an F-1 student visa, or an M-1 student visa, the individual must first complete the online DS-160 form and pay the visa application fee. After that, they must submit a new form I-20 from their school and proof of financial support. Then, they must schedule and attend an interview at the US embassy or consulate in their home country. Finally, they must wait for the visa to be approved before traveling back to the US.

12. Are there any restrictions on travel outside the U.S. with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on travel outside the U.S. with an F-1 or M-1 visa. Before traveling abroad, students must have a valid passport, a valid visa, and a Form I-20 that has been endorsed for travel within the last 12 months. Additionally, students must also be in good academic standing and must have maintained their full course of study throughout the semester.

13. Is financial aid available for students on an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, students on an F-1 or M-1 visa may be eligible for financial aid. Eligibility for federal aid such as loans, grants, and scholarships is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It is important to note that international students are not eligible for need-based aid. In addition to the FAFSA, many universities offer financial aid specifically for international students. It is important to contact the university’s financial aid office to find out more information about available financial aid options.

14. Are there any restrictions on changing educational institutions with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on changing educational institutions with an F-1 or M-1 visa. Students with an F-1 visa must transfer their SEVIS records to the new educational institution before the start of classes. For students with an M-1 visa, they must apply for a new visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate before transferring to a new educational institution. Additionally, students will be required to provide evidence that they have the necessary finances to cover all educational and living expenses for the duration of their studies at the new institution.

15. Can a student switch to a different course of study with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


Yes, a student with an F-1 or M-1 visa can switch to a different course of study as long as they inform their Designated School Official or Responsible Officer at the school.

16. How can a student receive authorization to work in the U.S. with an F-1 or M-1 visa?


A student with an F-1 or M-1 visa can only work on campus, and must obtain authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) at their school. The student must also have a valid I-20 or DS-2019 form. Off-campus employment is only allowed in certain circumstances, such as on-the-job training, practical training, or curricular practical training. In all of these cases, the student must receive authorization from their DSO.

17. Is English proficiency required for obtaining an F-1 or M-1 student visa?


Yes, English proficiency is required for obtaining an F-1 or M-1 student visa. In order to be eligible for admission into a U.S. educational institution, you must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in the English language to succeed academically. This requirement can be met through test scores, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

18. What type of health insurance is required for students on an F-1 and M-1 visa?


Students on an F-1 and M-1 visa are required to maintain health insurance coverage that meets the US Department of State’s minimum standards, including medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness, repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000, and expenses associated with medical evacuation in the amount of $50,000.

19. Can a student change their immigration status from F-1 to permanent residence while in the U.S.?


Yes, it is possible for a student to change their immigration status from F-1 to permanent residence while in the U.S. However, the process can be complex and lengthy and involves filing several USCIS forms, providing evidence of eligibility, and attending an interview. Additionally, it is important to note that a student’s F-1 status must remain valid until the change of status is approved by USCIS.

20. Are there any special requirements for international students who want to study in the U.S.?


Yes, international students who want to study in the U.S. must obtain a student visa through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence. They must also demonstrate the ability to pay for their tuition and living expenses and provide proof of health insurance coverage. Additionally, students must have strong English language skills and submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining why they wish to pursue their degree in the U.S.