F-1 Student Visa Overview

The F Visas provide legal status to non-immigrants who wish to expand their education in the United States. An F-1 visa can only be issued to full-time students attending academic and/or language training programs at at a certified institution.  In order to apply for an F-1 visa, you need to have a form I-20 from the school you wish to attend.

Requirements for Receiving a Form I-20 from SOLEX

• SOLEX College Application Form
• Current and Valid Passport
• Translated Copies of School Records
  All students wishing to study at SOLEX College must have at least a High School Diploma or equivalent from their country of origin. The diploma or additional university transcripts must be translated into English and officially evaluated by a credential evaluator like WES or ECE.
• Evidence of Financial Support
  Students studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are required to provide proof that they are financially able to support themselves for the duration of their stay in the United States.

For detailed information about specific F-1 visa requirements, please refer to our international admissions page or alternatively contact our representatives. We will be happy to provide you with further assistance.

F-2 Visa and Dependent Information

The F-2 visa is designed for the dependent of a student with an F-1 visa. This may include a spouse or children. Minor children of a student holding an F-1 visa are permitted to attend public schooling. Those who hold an F-2 visa, however, cannot work for compensation while in the United States.

Employment

Without prior authorization from Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), students with an F-1 visa are limited in their employment opportunities. Two options are available:

• Students holding a F-1 visa may work up to 20 hours per week at an on-campus job.
• USCIS can allow for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing a academic degree program such as our A.A.S. in Accounting program. This allows students to work for a total of 12 months of practical training. During this time, the F-1 student cannot go for more than 90 days without employment.