An overview of M-1 visas
Guide
A plain-language overview of the M-1 student visa category for international students and scholars in the United States.
Written by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is a M-1 visa?
The M-1 visa is for international students pursuing vocational or other non-academic programs in the U.S. (excluding language-only programs, which use the F-1).
What is an example of an academic program that would require an M-1 visa instead of an F-1?
Schools considered to be vocational or non-academic include community or junior colleges that offer vocational or technical training in Associate degree programs; vocational high schools, and any school offering vocational or non-academic training. Some examples of academic programs include technical, trade, mechanical, culinary, cosmetology, aviation, or similar career-training programs at an SEVP-certified institution.
M-1 vs. F-1: what’s the difference?
F-1 = academic study (degree programs, language programs).
M-1 = vocational/non-academic study.
Both F-1 and M-1 students are issued form I-20. M-1 holders face tighter limits than F-1 students: program extensions are restricted, and changing to F-1 status is generally not permitted. They may not change vocational or training programs. M-1 students are admitted for a “date-certain” period, up to one year. They can apply for an extension from USCIS each year for up to a maximum of three years.
M-1 eligibility requirements
Accepted by an SEVP-certified vocational/non-academic program and plans to enroll full-time
Sufficient funds for the entire program
Non-immigrant intent (plan to return home)
Valid passport
M-1 application process & costs
The process mirrors the F-1: receive your Form I-20, pay the I-901 SEVIS fee ($350), complete the DS-160, attend a visa interview, and present documents at a U.S. port of entry. MRV visa application fee is $185.
M-1 employment options
M-1 employment options are limited. There is no on-campus employment or CPT of the F-1 type; only limited practical training after completion with authorization. M-1s are allowed one month of OPT for every four months of vocational or training program completed, up to a maximum of 6 months of OPT. The OPT and the vocational program combined cannot exceed three years. Unlike the F-1 category, in order to be eligible for M-1 OPT, the DSO has to confirm that to their knowledge, similar training is not available in the student’s home country.
The OPT application must be made before the I-20 form end date, but no earlier than 90 days in advance of the end date.
