US International Students: What You Need To Know About  F-1 Visa

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the United States and attend academic institutions, such as colleges, universities, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories, and other institutions or language training programmes.

What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is specifically designed for international students who wish to pursue full-time studies in the United States. This visa is granted to students who have been accepted into an accredited institution recognized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

Key Features of the F-1 Visa

1. Full-Time Enrolment: F-1 visa holders must be enrolled as full-time students. This generally means a minimum number of credit hours or courses per term, depending on the institution’s requirements.
2. Duration of Stay: The F-1 visa is valid for the duration of the student’s academic programme, as indicated on the Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status). After completing their studies, students have a 60-day grace period to prepare for departure from the U.S. or to transfer to another academic programme.
3. Employment Restrictions: F-1 students are allowed to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks. Off-campus employment is more restricted and requires authorisation through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
4. Dependents: F-1 students can bring their spouse and children (under 21 years old) to the U.S. on an F-2 visa. F-2 dependents are not allowed to work, and children cannot enrol in full-time academic programmes at the college or university level.

Steps to Obtain an F-1 Visa

1. Acceptance by a SEVP-Approved School: Students must first be accepted into an accredited institution. The school will issue a Form I-20, which is required for the visa application.

2.  Pay the SEVIS Fee: The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee must be paid before applying for the visa. This fee is currently $350 for F-1 applicants.

3. Complete the DS-160 Form: The online nonimmigrant visa application form (DS-160) must be filled out and submitted. A confirmation page with a barcode is generated upon completion, which is needed for the visa interview.

4. Schedule a Visa Interview: Applicants must schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary by location and time of year.

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Prepare for the Interview: Applicants need to bring several documents to the interview, including:

• A valid passport

• Form DS-160 confirmation page

• Visa appointment confirmation

• Form I-20

• SEVIS fee receipt

• Financial evidence showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses

• Academic transcripts and standardised test scores

• Evidence of intent to return to the home country after the programme ends.

Attend the Visa Interview: During the interview, a consular officer will ask about the applicant’s study plans, academic background, and financial situation to determine eligibility.

Conclusion

The F-1 visa is a critical pathway for international students seeking to study in the United States. Understanding the application process, maintaining visa status, and adhering to employment regulations are essential for a successful and fulfilling academic experience in the U.S.

Euphemia Ojukwu

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