Noncitizens wishing to pursue education in the United States may apply for an F-1, M-1 or J-1 visa. An F-1 visa is for nonimmigrants wanting to study at an accredited college or university. An M-1 visa is for those wishing to engage in vocational or nonacademic study or training. A J-1 visa is for those wishing to participate in an educational or cultural exchange program. International students must meet certain requirements to obtain any of three available visas.
Admittance to a SEVP-Certified School
Prospective students who wish to study in the United States must first gain acceptance into an established school or program that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). A school with SEVP certification allows the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State to monitor exchange programs and nonimmigrant students. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement list of SEVP-approved schools provides the names and locations of these schools as of February 2011. Once accepted into the program, the educational institution must issue the student a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) I-20 or DS-2019 document to show proof of admittance.
Requirements of the Immigration and National Act
International students who wish to secure a student visa must meet the requirements of the Immigration and National Act. Under the Act, students must have a residence in their home country with no intention of abandoning that residence while in the United States. Students must also intend to leave the United States after completing the course of study and must have enough money to pursue the course of study and live.
Pay the Fees
Students wishing to obtain a student visa must pay the SEVIS fee and visa processing fee. The SEVIS fee is required by the United States for the maintenance of the Student and Exchange Visitors program. As of February 2011, the fee is $200 for F-1 and M-1 visas, and $180 for J-1 visas. The visa processing fees may vary depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate location. The U.S. Department of State website includes a list of U.S. Embassies that can provide additional information for each U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Some applicants may also be required to pay a visa issuance fee depending on the country of residence. The U.S. Department of State website includes a Reciprocity by Country page that provides additional information about visa Issuance Fees for specific countries.
Attend a Visa Interview
Applicants age 14 through 79 are required to schedule and attend an interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The individual interview process depends on the specific Embassy or Consulate. Generally the applicant is interviewed by a Consular Officer and required to submit to digital fingerprinting. The applicant must bring all visa-qualifying documents, financial documents showing proof of ability to pay for the educational program, proof of payment of the fees and a completed and accurate visa application.
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