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In order to obtain F-1 student visa to attend an academic program or English language program at a US college or university, the applicant must satisfy the following criteria:
- Must show a foreign residence and must prove intention to return to his/her country of residence upon completion of study
- Study at the academic institution through which the visa was issued
- Must show sufficient financial support
- Must show strong ties to home country such as ownership of properties, proof of immediate family members, assets, job offer upon completion of studies
F-1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status. They can remain in the US up to 60 days beyond the length of time it takes to complete their academic program. In addition, an F-1 student can remain in the US for 12 months after securing a degree to work under the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program. F-1 students are expected to complete their studies by the expiration date on their I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) which is provided by the US college or university that the student has been accepted to and will attend.
An F-1 student is generally entitled up to one year of post-completion practical training. Authorization for this type of practical training may be granted for a maximum of 12 months and only starts once you have graduated or completed his/her course of study.
Applying for F1 Visa
Different universities have different admission policies. The student will be informed by the university or academic institution the required documents in order to be determined his/her academic eligibility for admission. Amongst other requirements, the applicant also must show proof of sufficient financial support to pay all tuition and living costs without having to work.
Once the university has determined the application is complete and the applicant is academically eligible, they will issue a Form I-20 to enable the applicant to apply for F-1 student visa.
Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. This will normally be applicant's home country.
The following documents must be submitted when applying at the US consulate:
- A non-refundable application fee
- Form DS-156, completed and signed
- Form DS-157, must be completed by all males aged 16-45
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application
- One photograph 1 and 1/2 inches square (37x37mm) for each applicant, showing full face, without head covering, against a light background
- Form I-20 indicating that you have been admitted into a US college, university or other institution
- Evidence of financial support for tuition fees and living costs
When applying for a student visa, applicant must prove to the consular officer that he/she has strong ties to a residence in home country and that he/she has every intention to return home upon completion of studies in the United States.
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