Student visa
The United States welcomes foreign citizens who come to the U.S. to study. Before applying for a visa, all student visa applicants are required to be accepted and approved by their school or program. Once accepted, the educational institution will provide the applicant with the necessary approval documentation to be submitted when applying for a student visa. Student (F and M) visas for new students can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date for a course of study, and students can travel within 30 days from the start date on the Form I-20.
Visa descriptions and qualifications
F-1 visa
This is the most common type of student visa. If you wish to engage in academic studies in the United States at an approved school, such as an accredited U.S. college or university, private secondary school, or approved English language program then you need an F-1 visa. You will also need an F-1 visa if your course of study is more than 18 hours a week.
Application items
- A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form.
- A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States
- One photograph taken within the last six months.
