F-1 Visa Overview
Guide
An overview of the F-1 student visa: who it is for, the I-20 and SEVIS basics, financial requirements, and the rules for staying in status as a full-time student
Written by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is an F-1 visa?
The F-1 is a nonimmigrant visa for full-time study at an accredited, SEVP-certified U.S. college, university, high school, or language program. It’s the right choice for most degree-seeking international students. F-1 students are issued a Form I-20 from their school and may be eligible for limited employment (on-campus work, and CPT/OPT with authorization).
F-1 visa eligibility
To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must:
Be accepted by an SEVP-certified school in the U.S. and plan to enroll full-time
Show sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living costs
Demonstrate English proficiency (or enroll in a program that builds it)
Hold a valid passport
Maintain a residence abroad and show non-immigrant intent (a plan to return home)
F-1 application process & timeline
12–18 months before start of classes: Research and apply to SEVP-certified schools.
After acceptance: Receive your Form I-20; pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.
2–4 months before academic program start: Complete the DS-160 visa application and schedule your visa interview in your country of citizenship or residence.
At the interview: Bring your passport, I-20, SEVIS fee payment and DS-160 receipts, proof of finances, and admission letter. Answer all questions truthfully. As of June 28, 2025, F/M/J applicants must set social media accounts to public before the interview.
F-1 visa costs
I-901 SEVIS fee: $350
MRV visa application fee: $185 (non-refundable)
Plus reciprocity fees (varies by country), document translation fees, and tuition and living expenses.
