Looking for a Student Visa? See How F1/F2 Can Transform Your Future!
The F1 visa is designed for full-time students enrolled in a certified educational program in the U.S., while the F2 visa applies to their dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 21. With the F1 visa, you can pursue your educational dreams without needing a job offer, and the F2 visa ensures your family can join you. You'll need a valid passport, an I-20 form from your institution, and proof of financial stability. Discover how the F1/F2 visa can open doors to a world-class education and new opportunities in the United States.
If you want to better understand this visa, fill out the form below and our team will get in touch.
What is the difference between F1 and F2?
What are F1 visa application requirements?
What is I-20 and how can I obtain this document?
How do I know if the school can issue the I-20?
I already have the i20 issued by the institution, does that mean my visa has already been approved?
How much do I need in cash or financial assets to qualify for a student visa?
How can I prove that I meet the financial requirement?
Do I have to take the TOEFL or GRE exams to qualify for a student visa or status?
Can I change my university/school after I obtain my F1 status or F1 visa (in the U.S. or abroad)?
What type of proof can I present to show that I will come back to my home country?
What are the Eligibility Requirements for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
If I am in the U.S. as a tourist, when is the right time to apply for the change of status to student?
Can I travel abroad if I changed my status to F1/F2?
Can I apply for F1 from outside the USA?
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the F1/F2 Visa?
The F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign students to study at educational institutions in the United States, such as universities, colleges, high schools, and English language training programs. The F2 visa is designated for the immediate family members (spouse and children under 21 years old) of F1 visa holders, allowing them to accompany the student in the U.S.
Who can apply?
The F1 visa can be applied for by foreign students who have been accepted into a credentialed educational institution in the U.S. for a full-time study program. In addition to academic courses, candidates can come to the U.S. with an F1 visa to learn English, even if they do not yet have proficiency in the language. After being accepted by the institution, the student will receive the Form I-20, which is necessary for the F1 visa application. The I-20 is issued by the school and contains important information about the study program and the student's status. The student must use the I-20 to schedule an interview at the U.S. consulate to obtain the visa. The F2 visa can be applied for by the spouse and children under 21 years old of the F1 visa holder.
What are the requirements for the F1 visa?
To qualify for the F1 visa, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
Acceptance at an Institution: The applicant must have an acceptance letter from a credentialed educational institution in the U.S. After acceptance, the institution will issue the Form I-20, which the student will use to apply for the F1 visa. The I-20 is a crucial document that will also be required upon entering the U.S. and throughout the stay as a student.
Proof of Funds: Demonstrate availability of sufficient financial resources to cover education, housing, and other expenses during the study period.
Intention to Return: Show the intention to return to the home country after completing studies.
English Proficiency: The applicant must have an adequate level of English, usually proven by tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. However, candidates who wish to improve their English may enroll in language courses in the U.S. and thus do not need to have language proficiency when applying for the visa.
Can an F1 visa holder work in the United States?
Yes, students with an F1 visa have some options for working in the United States, though with restrictions. During the first academic year, students may work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. After the first year, there are options for off-campus work, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allow students to gain practical experience in their field of study.
What are CPT and OPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a program that allows F1 visa students to gain practical experience in their field of study while still enrolled, as part of the academic curriculum. CPT can be done part-time or full-time, depending on the course and institution.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a program that allows F1 visa students to work for up to 12 months (or up to 36 months for STEM students - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) after completing their course. OPT can be used before or after graduation and provides students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in a real work environment.