The Ultimate Guide to US F-1 and M-1 Student Visas: Eligibility, Application, and Maintaining Status

Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, and obtaining a student visa is a crucial step in achieving that goal. The US offers two main types of student visas: F-1 for academic studies and M-1 for vocational or non-academic studies. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information on eligibility, application process, and maintaining your status while studying in the US on an F-1 or M-1 visa.

Overview of US F-1 and M-1 Student Visas
Eligibility Requirements for F-1 and M-1 Visas
Application Process for F-1 and M-1 Visas
Maintaining Your F-1 or M-1 Visa Status
Working on an F-1 or M-1 Visa
Transferring Schools or Changing Programs
Traveling Abroad and Re-Entry
Adjusting Status and Changing Visa Categories
Tips for a Successful Visa Application

1. Overview of US F-1 and M-1 Student Visas

There are two main types of student visas for studying in the US:

F-1 Visa: This visa is for international students pursuing academic studies at an accredited US college, university, high school, or other educational institutions. Students on an F-1 visa can also attend language training programs.
M-1 Visa: This visa is for international students pursuing vocational or non-academic studies, such as technical or trade programs, at an accredited US institution.

While both visas allow students to study in the US, the requirements, restrictions, and permitted activities differ between the two categories.

2. Eligibility Requirements for F-1 and M-1 Visas

To be eligible for an F-1 or M-1 student visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved educational institution.
Have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the US.
Maintain a residence abroad that they have no intention of abandoning.
Intend to depart the US upon completion of their program.

Additionally, F-1 visa applicants must be enrolled in a full-time academic program, while M-1 visa applicants must be enrolled in a full-time vocational or non-academic program.

3. Application Process for F-1 and M-1 Visas

Here is an overview of the application process for F-1 and M-1 student visas:

Get accepted into an SEVP-approved institution: Research and apply to SEVP-approved schools. Once accepted, the school will issue you a Form I-20, which serves as proof of your acceptance and is required for your visa application.
Pay the SEVIS feeThe Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is used by the US government to track and monitor schools and international students. You must pay the SEVIS fee (currently $350 for F-1 visas and $220 for M-1 visas) before applying for your visa. Keep the receipt as proof of payment, as you will need it during your visa application process.
Complete the DS-160 visa application form: Fill out the DS-160 online non-immigrant visa application form, which includes providing personal information, educational background, and details about your intended program of study. After completing the form, print the confirmation page, as you will need it for your visa interview.
Pay the visa application fee: The visa application fee for F-1 and M-1 visas is currently $160. You will receive a receipt upon payment, which you should keep for your records.
Schedule your visa interview: Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate in your country. Wait times for appointments can vary, so be sure to schedule your interview well in advance of your intended travel date.
Prepare for your visa interview: Gather all required documents, such as your DS-160 confirmation page, Form I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, visa application fee receipt, passport-sized photographs, financial documentation, and any other supporting documents. Also, prepare to answer questions about your intended program of study, financial resources, and reasons for returning to your home country after completing your studies.
Attend your visa interview: Be punctual, dress professionally, and be prepared to answer questions about your background, education, and intentions in the US. The consular officer will decide whether to approve or deny your visa application based on your interview and supporting documents.
Receive your visa: If your visa application is approved, your passport will be stamped with your F-1 or M-1 visa, and you will be allowed to travel to the US to begin your studies.

4. Maintaining Your F-1 or M-1 Visa Status

While studying in the US on an F-1 or M-1 visa, you must maintain your visa status by:

Enrolling in a full-time course load each semester.
Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in your program of study.
Not working without proper authorization.
Reporting any changes in your address, program of study, or other relevant information to your designated school official (DSO).
Abiding by the terms and conditions of your visa, such as not engaging in unauthorized employment or violating US laws.

5. Working on an F-1 or M-1 Visa

F-1 visa holders are allowed to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. Off-campus employment is permitted under certain conditions, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

M-1 visa holders are generally not allowed to work while studying in the US. However, they may be eligible for practical training (similar to OPT) after completing their program, but they must apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

6. Transferring Schools or Changing Programs

As an F-1 or M-1 visa holder, you may transfer to another SEVP-approved institution or change your program of study. To do so, you must:

Notify your current school’s DSO of your intention to transfer or change programs.
Apply for and be accepted into another SEVP-approved school or program.
Obtain a new Form I-20 from the new school or program.
Inform the DSO at your new school of your transfer or program change within 15 days of starting classes.
Maintain your visa status by enrolling in a full-time course load and adhering to the other requirements.

7. Traveling Abroad and Re-Entry

F-1 and M-1 visa holders may travel outside the US during their studies. To re-enter the US, you must have:

A valid F-1 or M-1 visa.
A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
A valid Form I-20 signed by your DSO within the last 12 months (F-1) or six months (M-1).
Proof of financial support and continued enrollment at your SEVP-approved institution.

Keep in mind that you may need to apply for a new visa if your current visa has expired or if you have changed your program of study or school.

8. Adjusting Status and Changing Visa Categories

Under certain circumstances, F-1 and M-1 visa holders may be eligible to adjust their status to another non-immigrant visa category or apply for permanent residency. This typically involves filing an application with USCIS, providing supporting documents, and possibly attending an interview. Consult an immigration attorney or your DSO for guidance on your specific situation.

9. Tips for a Successful Visa Application

Here are some tips to increase your chances of a successful F-1 or M-1 visa application:

Apply early: Start researching schools and programs well in advance, as the application process can take time.
Prepare thoroughly: Gather all required documents and practice answering potential interview questions.
Show strong ties to your home country: Demonstrate your intention to return home after completing your studies by providing evidence of family, property, or job prospects in your country.
Provide proof of financial support: Clearly show that you have the necessary funds to cover your tuition, fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the US.
Be honest and concise: Answer all questions honestly and concisely during your visa interview.
Remain calm and professional: Approach your visa interview with confidence, and be respectful and courteous to the consular officer.

By following the information and tips provided in this comprehensive guide, you will be well-prepared to apply for and maintain your F-1 or M-1 student visa, allowing you to pursue your educational goals in the United States.

Table of Contents