US Student Visa: what you need to know?

Every year thousands of students from all over the world choose for their education colleges and universities in the United States of America. American educational institutions offer a wide range of options for studying: higher education, courses and various academic programs. Among the residents of the UAE the number of those who want to study in America increases every year.

To study in the United States you need to obtain a special student visa, the F1 visa. It opens up great opportunities for students: prestigious universities, high educational standards, freedom to choose subjects to study, a rich life in a multicultural student environment and prospects for future employment.

What is the F1 student visa?

The F1 visa is a permit for entry and stay in the United States. It is intended for foreign citizens who plan to study at American educational institutions on full-time programs. The visa is suitable for any level of academic education in schools, colleges, universities, as well as for language preparation programs (available both at specialized language schools and at universities or colleges).

Educational institutions covered by the F1 visa must meet certain requirements:

• the educational institution must be accredited and authorized by the government to admit students from other countries;
• the academic program or language courses in the USA must include a minimum of 18 instructional hours per week;
• the chosen course of study must lead to the issuance of a diploma/certificate or the granting of a degree.

Upon enrolling in an educational institution information about the foreign student is entered into a special database called the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (Service and Exchange Visitors Information System or SEVIS). Afterward, the educational institution issues a so-called Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (Form I-20) for foreign individuals undergoing education in the USA. This is the basis for obtaining an F1 student visa. Despite the fact that the admission results will be known on March 1st, you can already apply for a student visa in the UAE.

Requirements for obtaining an American F1 student visa

To obtain a student visa for the United States you need to meet the following requirements:

• valid passport with a validity period of at least 6 months;
• document confirming the financial ability to cover tuition fees, as well as living and transportation expenses;
• document proving proficiency in the English language, such as TOEFL or IELTS results;
• сonfirmation of a lack of immigration intentions (for example, a document confirming the ownership of personal property).

What does the F1 student visa provide?

The F1 visa allows students to fully complete their chosen course of study in person while residing in the United States. In addition, it provides other benefits:

• Access to high-quality academic programs – with an American F1 student visa students have the right to choose from the best educational institutions in the country. Moreover, transferring to other educational institutions within the United States is allowed (in this case, the visa is reissued in the United States).
• Unlimited movement within the United States during the visa’s validity period. It is also allowed to travel outside of the States during the visa’s validity period (provided that the travel is scheduled for non-academic time).
• The opportunity to receive additional education. This option is suitable, for example, for those who plan to take short-term qualification courses.
• The possibility to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week (in some cases, off-campus work is also possible).
• The opportunity to obtain a Social Security number, which simplifies the process of opening a bank account, signing a car or apartment lease, as well as obtaining medical insurance or a bank loan (if necessary).
• The possibility to bring family members on an F2 visa.
• Opportunities for research and innovation – in the United States you will be able to participate in research and projects and make a real contribution to the development of the chosen field of activity.
• Immersion in diverse cultures and traditions. Student life in the United States is an immersion in a fascinating blend of cultures and traditions. Exchange experiences with classmates and broaden your worldview.

If you are planning to study in the USA it is the time to submit your documents to universities. Despite the fact that the admission results will only be known on March 1st, you can already start the process of applying for an F1 student visa. The specialists at The Visa Services will provide you with qualified assistance and help you navigate all the intricacies of the F1 visa application process.

The F1 visa provides an excellent opportunity to obtain education in the US or learn the language. If the applicant meets all the requirements, correctly prepares all the documents and successfully passes the interview at the consulate, obtaining a student visa will not pose any difficulties.

To make the process of obtaining an F1 visa even easier and more comfortable, turn to the specialists at The Visa Services. You will only need to wait for information about enrollment and prepare for the beginning of an exciting student life. Our experts will take care of the documents and complex questions!

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