Getting your visa to study in the United States takes time but can be a surprisingly easy procedure. It is well worth the effort. In many countries, the number of student visas issued by the United States has grown significantly in the last year.
While the application process for an international student or exchange visitor visa can be confusing, hundreds of thousands of students are able to meet the requirements for a visa each year. Last year, 486,717 F-1 student visas were issued!
There are three types of student visas:
F1 – STUDENT VISA
The F1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in an academic or language program. A full-time course load must be maintained and the studies must be completed by the expiration date listed on the I-20 form. Students get an extra 60 days at the end of their stay.
J1 – EXCHANGE VISITOR VISA
J-1 visas get issued to individuals who take part in a wide range of an exchange visitor programs sponsored by schools, businesses, and a variety of organizations and institutions. These programs are envisioned for business and industrial trainees, scholars, students, international visitors, teachers, research assistants and on cultural missions. In addition, there are several exchange visitor programs for young people, including summer employment programs, internship programs for university students, and au-pair programs.
M1 – VOCATIONAL STUDENT VISA
The M1 visa is issued for students attending non-academic trade and vocational schools. It is valid for one year. Students may not change their field of study or switch to a F1 visa.