Visa Information
Most non-U.S. citizens who wish to study in the United States will seek an F-1 (non-immigrant) student visa, but there are other visa types that are sometimes authorised for those who study in the U.S. Here is a short description of the different visa types that involve study:

F-1, or Student Visa: This visa is the most common for those who wish to engage in academic studies in the United States. It is for people who want to study at an accredited U.S. college or university or to study English at a university or intensive English language institute.

J-1, or Exchange Visitor: This visa is for people who will be participating in an exchange visitor program in the U.S. The "J" visa is for educational and cultural exchange programs.

M-1, or Student Visa: This visa is for those who will be engaged in non-academic or vocational study or training at an institution in the U.S.

In order to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, students should first fill and submit a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System)-generated document (either an I-20 or DS-2019) issued by a U.S. college or university or Department of State-designated sponsor organization. Once they have all the required documentation, they may apply for the visa, even if they do not intend to begin your programme of study for several months. It is best to apply early for the visa to make sure that there is sufficient time for visa processing.

Note: The U.S. Embassy/Consulate cannot issue a visa more than 90 days before the actual start of the program in the United States. Besides, even if a student has been issued a visa to enter the United States, he will not be allowed to enter the country more than 30 days before the start of the study programme, if he is an initial entry student.


 

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