Important note: I am not a visa expert or an immigration lawyer. You should definitely talk to one if you have immigration questions. I wrote this blog post 1) because how to secure an F-1 visa is a question I’m receiving more and more often and 2) based off the international students pages of various schools (some of which are provided below.) Be sure to look at each of your chosen schools for their specific instructions and deadlines.

The Student Visa

As an international student preparing to study in the United States, obtaining your student visa is (obvi) pretty crucial. Understanding the complexities of visa applications and maintaining legal status can ensure a smooth academic experience in the U.S.—so you can study and not worry about visa alphabet soup. The most common student visas are the F-1 and J-1 visas. The F-1 visa is designed for students attending a university, college, high school, private elementary school, or other academic institution, including language training. The J-1 visa is for individuals approved to participate in work- and study-based exchange visitor programs.

Applying for Your Visa

The visa application process involves several steps. After receiving your admission letter from an educational institution (congrats!), you’ll receive a Form I-20 (for F-1 visa) or a Form DS-2019 (for J-1 visa) from the institution’s international student office. Then it’s your turn to spring into action.

1. Pay the SEVIS Fee: Before applying for your visa at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online. (The SEVIS database system tracks students and exchange visitors.)
2. Complete the Online Visa Application: Fill out the DS-160 form online, the standard visa application form for temporary travel to the U.S. It will ask for details about your background and purpose of visit.
3. Schedule and Prepare for Your Interview: Visa interviews are mandatory for most students. During the interview, be prepared to show your ties to your home country and your intent to return after your studies. Documents you may need:
   • Your passport
   • Form I-20 or DS-2019
   • School admission letter
   • Financial evidence you can cover your educational/living expenses
   • SEVIS fee receipt.

Maintaining Your Visa Status

Maintaining your visa status is your responsibility. Here are some key regulations to keep in mind:

• Report to Your School: You must report to your educational institution upon arrival/before your program starts.
• Keep Up Enrollment: Enroll in a full course of study each semester. Falling below a full load without approval may jeopardize your status.
• Update Your Information: Notify your school’s international student office if there are any changes to your address/study plans.
• Employment Restrictions: While on an F-1 visa, you can generally work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during vacation periods, but off-campus employment requires authorization.

Bon Voyage

Before departing for the U.S., check all travel and entry requirements, such as the need for a valid passport and visa. Ensure you understand the conditions of your visa regarding travel outside the U.S. and re-entry. Applying for and maintaining a U.S. student visa involves detailed preparation and strict adherence to regulations. By understanding and following these guidelines, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a successful academic experience in the United States. For more detailed guidance, check with your university’s international student office and the U.S. Department of State’s website for the latest visa information and updates.

By staying proactive and organized, you’ll be best positioned to manage your international student status and get on with the fun (and learning) of college.

1. https://bechtel.stanford.edu/navigate-international-life/visas/f-1-and-j-1-student-visas
2. https://iss.williams.edu/page/#:~:text=If%20you%20do%20not%20hold,International%20Student%20Services%20(ISS).
3. https://www.hio.harvard.edu/applying-your-visa
4. https://www.hio.harvard.edu/f-visa
5. https://oia.osu.edu/units/international-students/immigration-information/change-of-status/T