Studying in the United States

Thousands of international students enter the US each year to pursue educational degrees from American colleges and universities. Those wishing to study in the US should apply for nonimmigrant visas in either the F or M class, depending on the course of study they are pursuing.

F visas are available to those wishing to study at academic institutions such as:

• Colleges and universities that award bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorates or professional degrees
• Accredited junior and community colleges that award associate degrees in liberal arts or professions
• Institutions providing language training, liberal arts, fine arts or professions

F visas also are available for those wishing to enroll in seminaries, conservatories, academic high schools and private elementary schools.

M visas are available to those wishing to pursue non-academic courses of study, including:

• Community or junior colleges that award associate degrees in programs of vocational or technical training
• Vocational high schools
• Trade schools
• Other schools providing nonacademic training besides language training

In order for a prospective international student to qualify for an F or M visa, the following requirements must be met:

• The student must be enrolled full-time in an institution approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• The student must be proficient in English, or enrolled in a program to gain English language proficiency
• The student must have enough funding to cover all of the costs for the intended course of study, including tuition, housing, living expenses and other fees

Students applying for F visas have to offer proof of actual funding to cover the first year's expenses with the ability to acquire funding to cover the remaining years of study. Students applying for M visas, on the other hand, must have proof of actual funding to cover all expenses for the entire course of study.

As with other types of nonimmigrant visas, students also must demonstrate their willingness to return home once their course of study comes to an end. This may include evidence of a residence in the home country, employment or other significant ties that would ensure the student's return.

Once a student has received notification of acceptance by a US educational institution, he or she should begin the visa application process. Being accepted by a college or university does not guarantee a student will receive a nonimmigrant visa. Just like other visa applicants, the student will be required to file a visa application with the US embassy or consulate in his or her home country, meet in person with a consulate officer to discuss his or her application and meet the eligibility requirements for receiving a visa. The student also will have to provide digital photographs and fingerprints as well as undergo a security and background check.

The United States has some of the best educational institutions in the world. If you are interested in studying here and have questions about the visa process, contact an experienced immigration lawyer.

Getting Ready To Apply for a Visa

To read and print out a copy of the checklist, please follow the link below.

Getting Ready to Apply for a Visa

You can download a free copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader here.

Copyright © 2008 FindLaw, a Thomson Reuters business

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent counsel for advice on any legal matter.

View Previous Selections