F-1 Student Visa Information
The F-1 student visa classification is for full-time study in the U.S. In order to apply for the F-1 visa, the prospective student must receive a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status- for Academic and Language Students (also known as the Form I-20 A-B). This form must be issued by a school that has been authorized by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) to sponsor international students.
Once a prospective student has satisfied the admissions requirements for the college or university that they plan to attend, they must also prove that they will have adequate financial resources to cover their school and living expenses in the U.S. It is very important for international students to do everything they can to maintain their F-1 status throughout their stay in the U.S. This includes maintaining a full course of study.
Failure to be enrolled for a full course of study is considered a violation of the F-1 student status and places the student in a deportable situation.
Employment opportunities are limited for international students. F-1 students are only allowed to work under specific circumstances. On-campus employment is permitted up to 20 hours per week; however, off-campus employment is limited to internship or other work-study programs that may be required for a specific degree.
