F-1 Visa Type: The F-1 visa is the most common type of student visa for international students in the U.S., allowing full-time academic study at accredited universities or language programs.
SEVIS Fee: All applicants must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee before their visa interview.
Work Opportunities: F-1 visa holders can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.
Off-Campus Employment Options: After one year, students can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work off-campus, related to their field of study.
OPT Extension for STEM Majors: STEM graduates can extend their OPT period by an additional 24 months, giving them up to three years of work authorization in the U.S.
Dependents (F-2 Visa): Your spouse and children can accompany you on an F-2 visa, although they are not allowed to work or study full-time without proper authorization.
Duration of Stay: F-1 visa holders can stay in the U.S. for the duration of their academic program, plus 60 days afterward to prepare for departure or transfer to another program.
Changing Visa Status: If you want to change your visa status to H-1B (work visa) or any other type, you must file for it before your F-1 status expires.
Financial Proof Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance for the first year of study.
1. Grace Period After Graduation: You have a 60-day grace period to stay in the U.S. after completing your studies, during which you can either prepare for OPT, transfer, or depart the country.