US Student Visa Rules

Every year, thousands of students from different parts of the world apply for the US visa for further studies. Currently, there are three different student visas that are issued: F1 Visa, J1 Visa or M1 Visa. The F1 and J1 visas allow for the possibility of employment in the US during the stay, while the M1 Visa does not. One needs to be familiar with the types of visas, how they impact one’s financing while in the USA and how to go through the application and arrival processes.

Types of Student Visas for United States

F1 Visa: The F1 visa is for academic studies. An F1 visa is issued to students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program. F1 visas are by far the most common form of international student visa in the U.S. F1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status. F-1 status allows for part-time, on-campus employment (fewer than 20 hours per week).

Spouses or children accompanying F-1 visa recipients can travel on an F-2 visa. One must note that spouses are not allowed to work but may accompany and/or apply for their own visa to the U.S. to work or study.

J1 Visa: A J1 visa is issued to students who wants to obtain practical training that is not available in their home country to complete their academic program. J-1 student status allows for similar employment as the F-1 visa, with similar restrictions, as long as permission is given by the exchange visitor program sponsor.

M1 Visa: An M1 visa is issued to a student who is going to attend a non-academic or vocational school. M-1 visa holders for technical and vocational programs are not permitted to work during the course of their studies. The M-1 student visa applicants must have evidence that sufficient funds are immediately available to pay all tuition and living costs for the entire period of intended stay.

Interview Round: Interview is mandatory for receiving the visa of any category from the US embassy. The interview questions basically deal with analyzing the candidature of the student, his/her authenticity and future plans. The US government ensures that students are financially independent or have a sponsorship from the school’s side so that they can sustain their living in United States.

Applying for the Visa
Academic eligibility: Every school has different academic eligibility criteria. One needs to meet the academic eligibility of their school for securing a concrete admission offer letter.

Financial Stability: The students need to show their bank record and loan letter to ensure that they are financially capable of sustaining themselves while in US. The Visa rules have strict 20-hour-per-week rule which has to be met by the students.

Health Insurance: The students may have to show proof of health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should they need any medical assistance.