The F-1 Visa, known as the Academic Student Visa is a non-immigrant visa permits entry into the United States for full-time study at accredited educational institutions. Eligible institutions include colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, academic high schools, elementary schools, or other academic programs. To qualify, individuals must be enrolled in a program leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate. Additionally, the chosen school must be authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.
Eligibility for the F-1 visa categories requires meeting the following criteria:
- Enrollment in an academic, language-training, or vocational program.
- Approval of the school by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program,Immigration & Customs Enforcement.
- Full-time student status at the institution.
- Proficiency in English or enrollment in courses leading to English proficiency.
- Adequate funds for self-support throughout the entire proposed course of study.
- Maintenance of a residence abroad with no intention of relinquishing it.
Duration: The authorized stay in the U.S. is determined by the duration of the study program and the time needed for completion, allowing individuals to remain until 60 days after the program’s end date as specified on Form I-20, Certification of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
Family Members: The spouses and unmarried children (under the age of 21) can accompany the applicant as dependents on F-2 status.