F-1 Student Visa Overview

If you are a citizen of a country outside the United States and wish to study at an accredited American language school, college, or university you will need an F visa.

Definition of "F" Status

An F visa is issued to someone who plans to attend a full course of study at an approved institution in the United States.  This person must have a permanent residence in their country of origin with plans to return upon completion of their course of study.

There are six main entities involved in the F-1 immigration process:

• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• The U.S. School
• The Designated School Official (PDSO, DSO)
• The Student
• The U.S. Department of State (DOS)
• The SEVIS Database and the SEVIS Help Desk

F Visa Quick Facts

• F visas can be obtained in two ways: by applying from abroad or changing status
• Only schools approved by the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) can accept F-1 students
• F-1 students must maintain a full course load during their program of study
• F-1 students can remain up to 60 days after the successful completion of their degree or certificate program
• F-1 students may not work in the United States accept under certain circumstances
• F-1 students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for 12 months after the successful completion of a degree program
• F-1 students may bring their spouse or children on an F-2 visa