F1 Student Visa
F1 Visa: For university, college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, language programs, or other academic institutions.
Important Notes:
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Visitor Visas (B) and Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Not suitable for academic study. They only cover short-term recreational courses without academic credit.
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Student Visa Requirement: Required for any study leading to a U.S. degree or certificate. For distance learning programs requiring time on a U.S. campus, an F1 or M visa is necessary.
Steps to Apply:
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Apply to a SEVP-Approved School: The school will issue a Form I-20 after you’re accepted and registered in SEVIS.
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Pay SEVIS Fee: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online.
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Visa Application:
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Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160).
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Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Check specific instructions and wait times for your location.
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The requirement for an interview depends on your country of citizenship
For Dependents: If your spouse or children will accompany you, they must also obtain Form I-20 from the SEVP-approved school and apply for their own visas (SEVIS fee not required).