Visa Guidance
Visa Guidance
Visa & Immigration Guidance
Everything you need to know about studying in the USA: F-1 visa requirements, I-20 process, and maintaining your immigration status
3-5 weeks
Avg. Processing Time
$185
SEVIS I-901 Fee
$185
Visa Application Fee
120 days
Entry Before Start Date
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to pursue academic studies in the United States. Here's what you need to know:
What F-1 Allows
- Study full-time at accredited U.S. institutions
- Work on-campus up to 20 hours/week during term
- Apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
- Apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation
- Travel in and out of the U.S. with valid visa and I-20
Important Restrictions
- Cannot work off-campus without authorization
- Must maintain full-time enrollment (12+ credits)
- Must have valid I-20 at all times
- Limited to studying at school listed on I-20
- Must leave U.S. within 60 days after program completion
Apply to U.S. College
6-12 months before
Submit applications, get accepted
Receive I-20 Form
1-2 months after acceptance
College issues your I-20 after you submit financial documents
Pay SEVIS Fee
Immediately after receiving I-20
Pay $185 SEVIS I-901 fee online
Complete DS-160
After SEVIS payment
Fill out visa application form online
Schedule Visa Interview
As soon as possible
Book appointment at U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Attend Visa Interview
3-5 weeks before classes
Bring all required documents
Receive Passport with Visa
5-10 days after interview
Passport returned with visa stamp
Enter U.S.
Up to 30 days before start date
Present I-20 and visa at port of entry