Student Visas
The Immigration and Nationality Act places individuals wishing to study in the in the United States into two nonimmigrant visa categories. The "F" visa is reserved for non-immigrants wishing to pursue academic studies and/or language training programs, and the "M" visa is reserved for non-immigrants wishing to pursue nonacademic or vocational studies. Individuals traveling to the U.S. mainly for tourism who want to take short courses of study (less than 18 hours per week) they may be able to do so on a visitor visa. Individuals wishing to take more than 18 hours of study per week will need to apply for either an F1 or M1 student visa.
In most countries, first time student visa applicants are required to appear for an in-person interview. However, each embassy and consulate sets its own interview policies and procedures regarding student visas. Keep in mind that June, July, and August are the busiest months in most consular sections, and interview appointments are the most difficult to get during that period. Students need to plan ahead to avoid having to make repeat visits to the Embassy. To facilitate the immigration process, students should bring specific documents suggested by their immigration lawyer that might help establish their ties to the local community.
F-Academic Students and M-Vocational Students Requirements
Foreign students seeking to study in the U.S. may enter in the F-1 or M-1 category if they meet the following criteria:
- The student must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program
- The school must be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- The student must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution
- The student must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency
- The student must have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study
- The student must maintain a residence abroad which he/she has no intention of giving up.
If you or someone you know is interested in obtaining a student visa, you should contact an Atlanta Immigration Attorney at The Muhammad Firm today!