F1 Visa Guide: Key Things You Need to Know About the F1 Visa
International students seeking education in the United States are encouraged to apply for the F1 visa, a temporary non-immigrant visa that permits full-time study for the duration of their academic program.
F1 Visa Overview
The F1 visa empowers international students to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies in the United States. To apply, follow these steps:
- Secure Acceptance: Obtain acceptance to an SEVP-certified school.
- Register in SEVIS: Complete registration to obtain an I-20 form.
Pay the SEVIS Fee: Submit Form I-901 to pay the required fee.
Advantages the F1 Visa Offers
The F1 visa provides international students with a wide range of benefits, including:
Education
- Pursue any degree from top U.S. institutions.
- Access to undergraduate and graduate programs.
Family Accompaniment
- Eligible for on-campus employment during studies.
- Post-graduation work options through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
No Visa Cap
No lottery system; unlimited F1 visas are available.
Travel Flexibility
- Travel is permitted with a valid I-20 and Designated School Official (DSO) approval.
Requirements for an F1 Visa
Academic Requirements
- Pursue a full-time course of study (12 semester/quarter hours for junior college, undergraduate, or university students).
- One online course allowed (excluding English courses).
- Course reduction requires DSO approval (minimum 6 semester/quarter hours; medical exceptions appl
Intent to Depart
- Demonstrate intention to return to your home country after completing studies.
The F1 visa is a single-intent visa, excluding direct immigrant (Green Card) options.
Education Restrictions
- Cannot attend publicly funded K-12 schools (private institutions only).
- Exception: Can attend public K-12 school for 1 year with reimbursement.
Financial and Language Requirements
- Sufficient financial resources for the duration of study.
- English proficiency required (waivers available for English language training programs).
Academic Credentials
Possess equivalent academic credentials for institution attendance (e.g., U.S. high school degree for college undergraduate).
DSO
Communication
Maintain contact with Designated School Officials (DSO) for:
- Employment
- Driver’s license application
- Social Security number application
- Program changes
- Travel
- Address changes
- Name changes
- Program extension requests
Additional Regulations
- Enter the U.S. on an F1 visa (not B1/B2); file for change of status if necessary.
- 30-day grace period before program start; 60-day grace period after completion.
- Health insurance is not federally required but may be mandated by schools.
Changing Degrees
Consult your DSO to pursue a higher degree or the same degree in a different field without filing a new F1 petition.