The F1 visa allows students from around the world to study full time in the United States at accredited primary, secondary or postsecondary academic institutions. The F1 is a nonimmigrant visa, meaning it is intended for temporary visitors who do not intend to become permanent residents.
However, F1 recipients are usually eligible for 12 months of practical training (employment authorization or permission to work) during and after completing their studies. Students who take advantage of this training or other similar opportunities may in essence use F1 visas as the first step in their journeys toward permanent residence.
F1 Visa Requirements
To be eligible for an F1 visa, foreign students must possess all of the following:
-An offer of study from an approved educational institution in America
-Intent to travel to America for the purpose of enrollment in a full course of study (as certified by the academic institution in postgraduate or postdoctoral level study or at least 12 semester hours on the university level or equivalent)
-A valid passport
-Ability to prove they have sufficient funds to pay for tuition and costs for the duration of the program, although in certain circumstances the student may be given permission to work
-Fluency in English or enrolled in an immersion course or other course that will lead to proficiency
-Intent to return to their country of abode after expiration of the visa
Other Foreign-Student Opportunities
Students may additionally participate in the Optional Practical Training program that allows temporary paid work "directly related" to their fields of study. This work normally does not exceed 12 months in total. After a year at school, the student can utilize OPT part time when school is in session, full time when it is not or after graduation.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services estimates about 70,000 foreign graduates currently participate in this practical training program.
Students with degrees in certain science and technology fields (officially Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics fields or STEM) may be eligible for additional 17-month extensions of OPT.
During the OPT period, if a student works for an employer willing to sponsor them, he or she may begin the process of obtaining an H-1B nonimmigrant work visa or a green card leading to permanent residence in the U.S.
Get an Expert Advice
A foreign student contemplating study in the United States should contact a reputed study abroad consultant for advice and assistance. Kampus Landing is a leading overseas education consultant for USA and the stop shop to get the right information and advise on admissions counseling to the American colleges and universities. Kampus Landing also provides free online admissions and counseling service that can be availed by prospective international students wishing to study in Canada, USA, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Germany. With offices in USA, Canada and India, Kampus Landing carries a collective experience of 25 years in study abroad consulting.
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