The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign nationals who wish to pursue academic studies or language training programs in the United States. To qualify, students must enroll in a school, college, or university that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

The duration of the F-1 visa depends on the length of the academic program in which the student is enrolled, as indicated on the student’s Form I-20 issued by the SEVP-approved school.

General Requirements for F-1 Visa Eligibility

To qualify for an F-1 student visa, the applicant must:

1. Be accepted into an SEVP-approved institution for a full-time academic or language training program.
2. Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs for the entire period of study.
3. Show proficiency in the English language or be enrolled in an English language training program to gain proficiency.
4. Maintain a foreign residence and demonstrate strong ties to the home country, indicating intent to return after completing studies.
5. Enter the United States as a bona fide student to pursue a full course of study.

F-1 Visa Application Process

• Obtain Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, from an SEVP-certified school.
• Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before the visa interview.
• Complete Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, and schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• Attend the visa interview and provide all required documentation, including proof of financial support and intent to return home.

If you wish to study in the United States and need guidance to start the F-1 student visa process, please contact the Law Office of Sudeep K. Sharma at 718-536-9618 for a  consultation!
Our experienced immigration attorneys will guide you through every step of obtaining your F-1 visa—from school selection and documentation to interview preparation and compliance with SEVIS requirements.

If you would like to study in the United States and need to consult an experienced attorney to start process of F-1 student visa, please give a call at 718-536-9618 for free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will navigate you through the whole process of getting F-1 student visa.