U.S. Student Visas - FAQ’s

U.S. STUDENT VISAS

What are U.S. student visas?

Below is a general overview about U.S. student visas and the visa process. You can find more details in other parts of this website.

Types of U.S. student visas: 

  • F-1 Visa: The F-1 visa is the most common student visa for full-time studies at accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Learn more about F-1 Visas.

  • J-1 Visa: The J-1 visa is for exchange visitors, including students, scholars, and professionals. It often applies to students participating in an exchange program. Learn more about J-1 Visas.

  • M-1 Visa: The M-1 visa is designated for students enrolled in vocational or non-academic programs. This website is focused on F-1 and J-1 visas..

Visa application process overview: 

  1. Apply and gain acceptance to a U.S. SEVP-certified school.

  2. Receive your Form I-20 (for F-1/M-1) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1) from your institution.

  3. Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online.

  4. Complete the DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and schedule a visa interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

  5. Attend the interview with all required documents: valid passport, I-20/DS-2019 form, proof of finances, academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, and visa application confirmation.

  6. If approved, your passport will be stamped with your visa so you can enter the U.S (NOTE: Citizens of Canada do not require a visa stamp in the passport – but they do require the I-20 or DS-2019 form.) 

Learn more about the application process.   

How to maintain legal status once you are a student in the U.S.:

  • Maintain full-time enrollment each academic term.

  • Update your university’s international student office about any changes in your address, program, or status.

  • Work only within visa limitations. F-1 students may work on-campus part-time but must seek authorization for most off-campus employment (CPT, OPT).

  • Stay informed about visa expiration dates and any travel requirements.

Learn more about maintaining legal status. 

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What steps do I need to take to apply to a U.S. school?

The process to apply to a U.S. school starts long before you complete the application itself. If you want to study in the United States, start taking steps at least 12 to 18 months prior to the academic year you plan to begin your program of study: 

  • Research Your Options: Before applying to a U.S. school, research your options to find a college or university that aligns with your qualifications and meets your academic, financial, and personal requirements. Consider these questions:

    • Why do you want to study in the U.S.?

    • What degree level do you want to pursue (e.g., undergraduate, graduate, etc.)?

    • What field of study interests you?

    • What size institution do you prefer (e.g., small = fewer than 5,000 students; medium = 5,000-15,000 students; large = 15,000-30,000 students; very large (more than 30,000 students)?

    • Does it matter to you if the school is public or private?

    • What type of location do you prefer (e.g., urban, suburban, rural)? 

    • Will you need financial assistance?

    • What are your short-term and long-term goals? 

      NOTE: The schools you apply to must be certified by the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to enroll international students in F, J, or M visa status. You can find a searchable list of certified schools on the Department of Homeland Security’s Study in the State’s School Search page at https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/school-search. 

  • Secure Funding for Your Studies: The cost of studying in the U.S. varies greatly by school and location. One of your first steps should be to understand the costs (e.g., tuition, fees, living expenses, etc.). You need to evaluate your finances to determine what funds you have available and are willing to spend, and what financial assistance may be available from other sources.

    NOTE: Before an SEVP-certified school can issue a Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 to you, you must provide financial evidence showing that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses during your intended study period. Evidence of financial ability includes but is not limited to:

    • Bank statements

    • Documentation from a sponsor

    • Financial aid letters

    • Scholarship letters

    • Letter from an employer showing annual salary

    • Requirements for acceptable forms of financial evidence will vary between schools. Your school’s international student office will provide more details.

  • Complete Your Application: Application requirements vary greatly by school, so you need to familiarize yourself with the requirements for each school where you are applying. Here are some general application requirements to consider: 

  • Educational credentials: Academic transcripts and diplomas (along with translations into English, if applicable), a foreign academic credential evaluation, etc. 

    NOTE: A foreign academic credential evaluation is a process by which an independent organization determines the U.S. educational equivalency of a foreign degree or diploma. These reports detailing your credentials’ U.S. equivalents are often required for U.S. immigration, job applications, academic admissions, and professional licensure. Some schools have in-house expertise and will complete the evaluation themselves. Others may require you to work with an outside agency to obtain an evaluation and submit it as part of your application. Schools may require you to work with an agency that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

  • Standardized test scores: Test scores may be required to assess your academic ability (e.g., SAT, ACT, etc.) and English proficiency level (e.g. TOEFL, IETLS, etc.).

  • Recommendation letters: Choose someone who knows you well (e.g., teachers, coaches, supervisors, etc.) and can assess your potential to succeed in higher education.

  • Essay/personal statement: Essays and personal statements are one of the most important aspects of your application. You need to be clear, concise, and persuasive, showing the admissions committee who you are and highlighting your unique strengths, skills, and life story.

NOTE: Check the specific requirements and timelines on each school’s international admissions website. It is typical for U.S. undergraduate applications to be due between November and January for students who wish to begin courses the following August or September. These timelines may vary more widely for graduate programs.

Once you apply and receive acceptance to an SEVP-certified school, and meet all relevant requirements, your school will issue you a Form I-20 (for F-1 visa status) or a Form DS-2019 (for J-1 visa status), which you will use to apply for a visa at a U.S. Consulate abroad, or a change of status from within the U.S.

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What is SEVIS and the I-901 SEVIS fee?

SEVIS stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, the U.S. government’s online system that tracks F, J, and M international students and their dependents.

  • The I-20 form (required for F-1 students) and the DS-2019 form (required for J-1 students) are issued from SEVIS.

  • The I-901 SEVIS fee helps maintain your student record in SEVIS. 

You must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee after you receive your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 and before your visa interview. This is required under U.S. immigration law. You pay online at fmjfee.com. Be sure to keep the payment receipt for your visa appointment.

Reference: 8 CFR 214.13 (Code of Federal Regulations)

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What are Forms I-20 and Forms DS-2019?

Form I-20: The full name of the form is “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status – For Academic and Language Students.” This form is issued by an SEVP-certified school. It contains key details about your program of study, start and end dates, funding information, and your SEVIS ID number. 

You need your Form I-20 to:

  • Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee

  • Apply for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. consulate

  • Enter the U.S. in F-1 status at a port of entry

  • Show proof of your lawful student status while in the U.S.

  • Your DSO (Designated School Official) at your school will also update and sign your Form I-20 for work authorization (CPT, OPT), program extensions, and travel signatures

Form DS-2019: The full name of the form is “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status.” A U.S. Department of State-designated program sponsor (this may be your school or another sponsor) issues this form. It contains key details about your program, including program category, sponsor information, program dates, and financial support. 

You need your Form DS-2019 to:

  • Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee

  • Apply for a J-1 student visa at a U.S. consulate

  • Enter the U.S. in J-1 status at a port of entry

  • Show proof of your lawful exchange visitor status while in the U.S.

  • Your ARO (Alternate Responsible Officer) at your program sponsor will also update and sign your Form DS-2019 for work authorization (on-campus employment and Academic Training), program extensions, and travel signatures

NOTE: These forms are part of your official SEVIS record and are required to be maintained by you, your school, and/or program sponsor under U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S, Department of State (DOS), and SEVP regulations. Keep them safe, and never travel internationally without your original, signed copy.

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How much financial support must I show?

Before an SEVP-certified school can issue a Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 to you, you must provide financial evidence showing that you have sufficient funds immediately available to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one academic year, with an expectation of sufficient funds thereafter for your intended study period.  You must also show proof of finances to the U.S. Consulate during the visa application process.

The amount of financial support you must show is generally tied to a school’s official Cost of Attendance (COA), which is the estimated total cost of studying at a U.S. college or university for one academic year. It includes both direct costs (paid to the school) and indirect costs (personal expenses you are responsible for).

A typical COA includes:

  • Tuition and fees (billed by the school)

  • Housing and meals (on-campus or estimated off-campus living costs)

  • Books and supplies

  • Health insurance (often required for international students)

  • Transportation (local commuting, occasional travel)

  • Personal expenses (clothing, phone, activities, etc.)

Schools are required by U.S. federal law to publish an official COA, so this information should be easy to find on your school’s website. COA is especially important because U.S. immigration rules require you to show proof of sufficient funding when applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa.

NOTE: Requirements for the amount of financial support you need to show and what is considered acceptable forms of financial evidence will vary between schools. Your school’s international student office will provide more details.

Reference: U.S. State Department Foreign Affairs Manual “Determining Financial Status of F-1 Students”: 9 FAM 402.5-5(G)(1)

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F-1 VISAS

How do I apply for an F-1 visa?

Once you receive the Form I-20 from your school, you may begin the F-1 visa application process. The process generally includes the following steps:

NOTE: 

  • While the visa process can be stressful, it is important for you to be authentic and prepared to explain why you chose your school, program of study, etc.

  • Visa reciprocity rules: Each country has its own rules for how long a U.S. visa may be valid, how many entries are allowed on a U.S. visa, and whether an additional reciprocity fee is required. Check the Visa Reciprocity Table on the U.S. Department of State website to understand the rules for your country of citizenship. Select your country of citizenship from the list of countries on the left hand side, and then select the visa category for which you are applying in the Visa Classification section. 

  • Timing your appointment: If you apply for your visa too early, it could expire before you have the chance to use it to enter the U.S. Always confirm both the validity period of your visa and your program start date to avoid problems.

  • Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need a visa. If you are a citizen of either of these countries, you will need to obtain an I-20, pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, and present those documents (and a valid passport) to a CBP officer at a U.S. Port of Entry. 

IMPORTANT: 

  • Plan ahead, but also time your visa appointment carefully. A visa issued too early to citizens of countries who have shorter visa validity periods may cause issues if your visa expires before you travel to the U.S.

  • As of June 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of State requires all applicants for F, M, and J visas to set their social media accounts to public before their visa interview. You should expect that your social media presence will be reviewed as part of the visa process.

References:

10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa (NAFSA: Association of International Educators, August 12, 2025)

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What documents will I receive after being accepted by an SEVP-certified school?

Congratulations on your acceptance! Once you are admitted to an SEVP-certified school in the U.S., the school will send you important documents you’ll need to begin your student visa process.

You will receive:

  • Admission letter: This confirms your acceptance. Some schools may also require you to pay a deposit to show that you plan to enroll.

  • Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) issued through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). This form lists your program details, funding information, and is required before you can pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for your F-1 visa.

IMPORTANT: Before your I-20 can be issued, you must provide your school with certain documents. Requirements vary by school but usually include:

  • A valid passport

  • Proof of financial support (such as bank statements or scholarship letters)

  • Information about any dependents who will accompany you

These documents ensure your I-20 is accurate and that you have the resources to begin your studies in the U.S.

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What does “non-immigrant intent” mean, and why does it matter?

The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa, which means U.S. law requires you to show that you plan to return to your home country after finishing your studies. At your visa interview, the consular officer will look for signs that you have strong reasons to go back home, such as:

  • Family, community, or career ties in your home country

  • A clear plan to use your U.S. education in your future career back home

  • Proof that you can afford your studies without needing to remain in the U.S. unlawfully

If you cannot demonstrate your intent to return to your home country, your visa may be denied under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 214(b).

If your visa is denied under INA 214(b):

  • It is not a permanent refusal; it applies only to that specific application.

  • There is no formal appeal process.

  • You may reapply if your circumstances change or if you have new, stronger evidence (such as improved financial documentation or clearer plans to return home).

NOTE: To reapply, you must complete a new DS-160 application, pay the visa application fee again, and schedule a new interview. Check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to reapply for their reapplication procedures.

References:

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What is the typical wait time for a visa appointment, and can I request an expedited visa interview?

Visa appointment wait times can vary widely depending on the embassy or consulate location and the time of year. Busy seasons, like summer, often mean longer waits. You can always check current wait times on the official U.S. Department of State website.

If your program start date is approaching and no regular appointments are available, you may request an expedited appointment. To do this, you must:

  • Complete the DS-160 application

  • Pay the visa application fee

  • Schedule the earliest available appointment

Only after you take these steps will the consulate review an expedited request. You will need to show clear proof of why an earlier appointment is necessary (for example, that your academic program is starting soon).

NOTE: 

  • The process to request an expedited appointment can vary by location. Always follow the instructions on the U.S. embassy or consulate’s website where you will interview.

  • Visa reciprocity rules: Each country has its own rules for how long a U.S. visa may be valid, how many entries are allowed on a U.S. visa, and whether an additional reciprocity fee is required. Check the Visa Reciprocity Table on the U.S. Department of State website to understand your country’s rules. Select your country of citizenship from the list of countries on the left-hand side, and then select the visa category for which you are applying in the Visa Classification section. 

  • Timing your appointment: If you apply for your visa too early, it could expire before you have the chance to use it to enter the U.S. Always confirm both the validity period of your visa and your program start date to avoid problems.

IMPORTANT:

  • Plan ahead, but also time your visa appointment carefully. A visa issued too early for citizens of countries who have shorter visa validity periods may cause issues if the visa expires before you travel to the U.S. 

References: 

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What are the most common reasons a visa application is denied, and what should I do if my visa is denied?

Visa denials can feel discouraging, but they happen regularly and are often due to issues that can be corrected. Knowing the common reasons for denial will help you prepare a stronger application if you need to reapply.

Common reasons for denial include:

  • Not showing enough financial proof (INA 214(b))

  • Weak ties to your home country that make the officer think you may not return (INA 214(b))

  • Incomplete or incorrect documents at the time of the interview (INA 221(g))

  • Security concerns or past immigration violations

If denied:

  • Politely ask the officer for the reason.

  • Work to correct the issue (for example, provide stronger financial proof or clearer evidence of your plans to return to your home country).

  • Reapply if you are eligible.

  • Unfortunately, most schools will not be able to assist you with an appeal of a visa denial if the reason for the denial is under INA section 214(b) or 221(g). You should be sure to inform your DSO, however, of the denial and the reason.

NOTE: 

  • The most common reason for denial is under INA 214(b), which usually means you need to better demonstrate both your financial ability to study and your clear intent to return home after your program. 

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J-1 VISAS

How do I apply for a J-1 visa?

Once you receive the Form DS-2019 from your school or program sponsor, you may begin the J-1 visa application process. The process generally includes the following steps:

NOTE: 

  • While the visa process can be stressful, it is important for you to be authentic and prepared to explain why you chose your school, program of study, etc.

  • Visa reciprocity rules: Each country has its own rules for how long a U.S. visa may be valid, how many entries to the U.S. are allowed on the visa, and whether an additional reciprocity fee is required. Check the Visa Reciprocity Table on the U.S. Department of State website to understand your country’s rules. Select your country of citizenship from the list of countries on the left-hand side, and then select the visa category for which you are applying in the Visa Classification section. 

  • Timing your appointment: If you apply for your visa too early, it could expire before you have the chance to use it to enter the U.S. Always confirm both the validity period of your visa and your program start date to avoid problems.

  • Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need a visa. If you are a citizen of either of these countries, you will need to obtain a DS-2019, pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, and present those documents (and a valid passport) to a CBP officer at a U.S. Port of Entry. 

IMPORTANT: 

  • Plan ahead, but also time your visa appointment carefully. A visa issued too early for citizens of countries who have shorter visa validity periods may cause issues if the visa expires before you travel to the U.S.

References:

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What documents will I receive after being admitted as a J-1 student?

Congratulations on your acceptance! Once you are admitted to an SEVP-certified school in the U.S., the school will send you important documents you’ll need to begin your student visa process.

You will receive:

  • Admission letter: This confirms your acceptance. Some schools may also require you to pay a deposit to show that you plan to enroll.

  • Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) issued through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). This form lists your program details, funding information, and is required before you can pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for your J-1 visa.

IMPORTANT: Before your DS-2019 can be issued, you must provide your school with certain documents. Requirements vary by school but usually include:

  • A valid passport

  • Proof of financial support (such as bank statements or scholarship letters)

  • Information about any dependents who will accompany you

These documents ensure your DS-2019 is accurate and that you have the resources to begin your studies in the U.S.

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What is the Two-Year Home Country Physical Presence Requirement?

Some J-1 students are subject to a special rule called the Two-Year Home Country Physical Presence Requirement (Immigration and Nationality Act section 212(e)). This rule affects what you can do after finishing your program in the U.S.

You may be subject to this rule if:

  • Your program was funded by your home government or the U.S. government

  • Your field of study is listed on your home country’s official “skills list”

  • You came to the U.S. for graduate medical education or training

If you are subject to this rule, you must spend at least two years physically present in your home country before you are eligible to:

  • Apply for an H-1B visa, L visa, or permanent residency (green card)

  • Change status to another nonimmigrant visa category from inside the U.S.

In some cases, you may apply for a waiver of this requirement, but it must be reviewed and approved by the U.S. Department of State.

NOTE: Your Form DS-2019 or J-1 visa stamp may indicate whether you are subject to this rule, but always confirm with your program sponsor to be sure. You may also work with your program sponsor to apply for an Advisory Opinion from the U.S. Department of State for a determination on whether you are subject to 212(e).

IMPORTANT: In December 2024, the U.S. Department of State revised the Exchange Visitor Skills List and removed 37 countries entirely. Many current J-1 exchange visitors have DS-2019 forms and visa stamps issued before this change that indicate they are subject to 212(e) based on the Skills List. However, this requirement has been eliminated retroactively for affected countries. If your country is no longer on the Skills List but your documentation still shows you are subject based on the Skills List, you should consult with your program sponsor for confirmation. Regardless of what your DS-2019 or visa indicates, if your country was removed from the Skills List and that was the only basis for your 212(e) requirement, you are no longer subject to the two-year home residency requirement.

References: 

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Can I switch from J-1 to F-1 status?

Yes, it is possible to change from J-1 to F-1 status, but there are important conditions to consider. You may want to make this change if you plan to continue studying in the U.S. outside of an exchange program.

There are two main ways to change status:

  • Inside the U.S.: Apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a change of status. This option can take several months or longer.

  • Outside the U.S.: Depart the U.S. and apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country, then re-enter in F-1 status.

NOTE: If you are subject to the Two-Year Home Country Physical Presence Requirement (INA §212(e)) and do not have an approved waiver, you are not eligible to change status inside the U.S. You would need to leave the U.S. and apply for an F-1 visa abroad. Both options require time, careful planning, and financial resources.

IMPORTANT: Always talk with your DSO/ARO (and, if needed, an immigration attorney) before beginning this process. They can help you understand which option is best for your situation.

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Who is my “program sponsor” and what role do they play?

As a J-1 student, your program sponsor is the organization listed on your DS-2019. This may be your school or another organization that has been authorized by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor exchange visitors.

Your program sponsor is responsible for:

  • Maintaining your SEVIS record

  • Issuing and updating your Form DS-2019

  • Authorizing program extensions, travel signatures, and certain benefits

  • Advising you on how to stay in compliance with J-1 regulations

NOTE: Sometimes your school is not your official SEVIS sponsor. This can feel confusing. In that case:

  • Look to your school’s international office for guidance on campus-related matters like housing, registration, or student activities.

  • Contact your sponsor’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for all immigration-related issues. They are the ones legally responsible for your J-1 status.

Staying in close communication with your sponsor ensures you keep your J-1 record accurate and avoid status problems.

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U.S. immigration regulations are rapidly changing. Immigration rules can change quickly, and what is accurate today may not be true tomorrow. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific immigration questions or complex situations, consult with a qualified immigration attorney.