Student visas are required in order to study as a full-time student in the United States. There are two non-immigrant visa categories. The F visa is reserved for non-immigrants wishing to pursue academic studies or language training programs, and the M visa is reserved for non-immigrants in a vocational program.
The F-1 Visa (Academic) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, high school, elementary school, or in a language training program. The program must result in a degree, diploma, or certificate, and the school must be authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.
The M-1 visa (Vocational) category includes students in vocational or other nonacademic programs, other than language training.
‘F’ students may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. ‘M’ students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies. ‘M’ students can also work part-time at an on-campus job.
Both ‘F’ and ‘M’ students may only accept off-campus employment related to their area of study and must be authorized prior to starting any work.
For more information, including fees and timelines, please contact us.
