U.S. Student Visa
United States
Residency
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See if you're a match →The F-1 and M-1 student visa routes are for people accepted by approved U.S. schools. They are temporary study routes, but F-1 study can sometimes lead to practical training and later work-sponsored options.
- Type
- Student residence
- School fit
- Accepted or applying students
- Core requirements
- Approved school, Form I-20, funding, and visa approval
- What to know
- Temporary study route; work is limited
Summary
F-1 and M-1 student visas allow qualifying students to come to the United States for approved study. F-1 usually covers academic, language, college, university, seminary, conservatory, and similar programs. M-1 usually covers vocational or other recognized nonacademic programs.
The school normally needs to be SEVP-approved and issue Form I-20 before the visa process can move forward.
Eligibility
You may fit this pathway if:
- You have been accepted by, or are applying to, a SEVP-approved U.S. school.
- The program is academic or vocational study that requires an F or M visa.
- You can show funding for tuition and living costs.
- You can show you will follow the temporary student-visa rules.
- You are otherwise eligible for the visa.
Duration, Renewal, and Long-Term Path
- Duration: Tied to the program and status rules.
- Renewal: Extensions or transfers may be possible through school and immigration procedures.
What This Route Allows
It allows study in the United States. F-1 students may later have limited practical training options, such as OPT, if eligible.
What This Route Is Not
It is not a general work visa or a green card. Work authorization is limited and category-specific.
Next Steps
- Confirm the school is SEVP-approved.
- Obtain or plan for Form I-20.
- Prepare financial records and study-plan documentation.
- Review any prior U.S. status, visa refusal, or overstay issues.