F-1 Visa
Requirements

1. Institution Certification – college or university you plan to attend must be approved by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) under U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE).

2. Full-Time Enrollment – you must maintain full-time student status while your academic program is in session.

3. English Proficiency – you need to meet the institution’s English language requirements or be enrolled in courses designed to improve your proficiency.

4. Proof of Financial Support – you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during your stay in the U.S.

5. Valid Passport – your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion date of your academic program.

6. Home Country Residency – you must have a permanent residence in your home country and intend to return after completing your degree.

How to apply for F-1 visa?

Before starting your F-1 visa application, make sure to complete the following essential steps:

1. Secure Acceptance from a SEVP-Certified Institution – you must be accepted by a school or university certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. Upon acceptance, the institution will issue you a Form I-20.

2. Pay the SEVIS Fee - $350 for F-1, F-3, M-1 or M-3, and $220 for J-1

3. Complete the DS-160 Form;

4. Schedule Your Visa Interview;

5. Attend the Visa Interview – you must demonstrate your eligibility for the F-1 visa. Bring all required documents, including your I-20 form, proof of financial resources, and a valid passport.

What happens after I complete my studies?

After graduating, you may qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing you to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in a field directly related to your area of study. If you are a STEM graduate, you can apply for a two-year extension, giving you a total of three years to gain work experience in your field.

Without extensions or further training opportunities, you must leave the U.S. within 60 days of completing your program. If you're interested in exploring your options after graduation, Shorelight can guide you through the possibilities available with your F-1 visa.

What to expect at your visa interview?

Your interviewer will ask questions to determine: 

1. Are you a legitimate student?

2. Do you have the resources to pay for your studies?

3. Do you plan to return home after completing your degree?

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To prepare for your F-1 student visa interview, here are some questions you might be asked: 

• Why did you pick this university?

• Which other US universities did you apply to?

• How will you pay for your education?

• Do you have relatives in the USA?

• Do you plan to work while in the USA?

• What do you plan to do after graduation?

F-1 Visa Denials

There is a chance your F-1 visa application may be denied. If this occurs, you will receive a written explanation outlining the specific reasons and the legal section under which your application was rejected.

To minimize the risk of denial, carefully follow all instructions and thoroughly review your documents before submission. Double-check for accuracy and completeness. Rakitina Law Firm is available to assist you throughout the process, helping you organize required documents in the correct format and ensuring everything is submitted on time.

During your F-1 visa interview, it’s crucial to clearly demonstrate that your primary purpose is to study in the U.S. and that you intend to return to your home country after completing your program. Keep this in mind when answering questions to strengthen your case.

Maintaining F-1 Status

As an international student, it is important to maintain your F-1 visa status to continue your studies in the U.S. This means adhering to both university policies and codes of conduct while meeting all F-1 visa requirements and conditions.

When Entering the U.S.:

• You may enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before your program start date.

• Upon arrival in the U.S., promptly contact your Designated School Official (DSO).

• Upon arrival to your university, ensure you check in with your DSO again before the program start date listed on your Form I-20.

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Throughout your stay in the U.S.:

• Attend all your classes and maintain good academic standing.

• If you need extra time to complete your program which would exceed the end date specified in your I-20, speak with your DSO to discuss your options for possible extensions.

• Make sure to enroll for a full course of study when your academic term is in session.

• If you want to drop a class or change classes, make sure to speak to your DSO first.

• If you want to take a break and/or go on vacation, remember to first complete at least one full academic year at your institution.  After your holiday, you must also register for classes in the next academic term.

Am I allowed to work in the U.S.?

Yes, F-1 visa holders can work in the U.S., but there are important rules to follow:

• On-campus work only during the academic term.

• Limited to 20 hours per week while classes are in session.

• Full-time work is allowed during academic breaks, if approved by your university.

• Off-campus work may be possible with university and USCIS approval.

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Before applying for any job, consult your Designated School Official (DSO) to ensure compliance with visa regulations.

After completing your program, you have a 60-day grace period to leave the U.S. If you want to stay longer, consider options like transferring to another school or continuing your education.