How does a foreign national obtain a student visa in the United States?

Most colleges and universities have foreign student counselors to assist prospective students. How you apply will depend on several factors, including: the type of programs available at the school you want to attend; your financial situation; your family situation; the type of education you intend to pursue.

Types of Student Visas

Generally, two main types of student visas are used by colleges and universities. Some colleges focus on F-1 or M-1 student visas; the focus of this type of program is whether you meet that college’s requirements for admission. For example, a particular university may require a certain grade point average and three letters of recommendation. Before you can receive the application for an F-1 visa or M-1 visa, you must satisfy that institution’s requirements. Other colleges focus on J-1 student visas. To get a J-1 visa, the college or university must be an approved Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) program sponsor. To be eligible, you must demonstrate that your financial situation is such that you are fully supported by funds other than those from your family. For example, you earned a scholarship that covers your tuition and living expenses. If you cannot demonstrate full support, you may need to look for a college with an F-1 or M-1 program.

Even if you did qualify for a J-1 student visa, you may still want to consider applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa. If you are married and have children under 21 years of age, they may be able to apply for F-2 or M-2 visas. These visas provide a means for families to remain together while one spouse is attending college.

What Are You Going to Study?

The last main factor to influence the your student visa you is the type of education you intend to pursue. If you are seeking a four-year degree through an accredited post-secondary educational institution, and you have funds to support yourself outside of your family, you should be able to qualify for a J-1 student visa. F-1 student visas are similar in that they generally apply to students seeking to attend a college or university, including those offering two-year programs. M-1 student visas are directed to those students seeking a vocational education, for example a trade school.

Trying to figure out exactly which student visa is best for your situation can be a bit daunting. Fortunately, most schools that participate in these programs designate an individual to assist non-immigrant students as they work their way through the process. You can also seek the assistance of an attorney who specializes in immigration law to help you identify any opportunities or pitfalls applicable to your personal situation.

Case Studies: Foreign National Student Visa Applications in the United States

Case Study 1: Anna’s Journey to an F-1 Visa

Anna, a high school graduate from Ukraine, dreams of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science at a renowned American university. With a strong academic background and a passion for technology, Anna researched universities that offer F-1 student visas.

She prepared meticulously, ensuring she met each institution’s admission requirements, including a high GPA and outstanding recommendation letters. Anna successfully obtained acceptance from a U.S. university and secured the F-1 student visa, allowing her to pursue her educational goals.

Case Study 2: Mohammad’s Pursuit of a J-1 Visa

Mohammad, a medical student from Jordan, wants to participate in a clinical exchange program at a prestigious American hospital. He researched universities and programs that are approved Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) sponsors, which are necessary for J-1 visa eligibility.

To demonstrate his financial stability, Mohammad secured a scholarship that covers his tuition and living expenses during the program. With the support of the SEVIS-approved program and proper documentation, Mohammad successfully obtained a J-1 student visa to fulfill his educational aspirations.

Case Study 3: The Family’s F-2 Visa Journey

Maria, a married individual from Brazil, plans to pursue a master’s degree in business administration at a U.S. university. She and her spouse have two children under the age of 21. Understanding that an F-2 visa allows dependent family members to accompany the primary visa holder, Maria explored universities with F-1 programs that cater to her educational needs.

She successfully gained admission and applied for F-1 and F-2 visas simultaneously, ensuring her entire family could stay together while she pursued her academic goals.