How to Obtain a Student F Visa!

     So, a lot of times during the course of my day at work, I have to advise individuals in other countries on how to obtain an F Visa so that they can legally study ESL in the U.S.  The process is not as hard as one might think; however, it can be tedious if one doesn't know much about the overall processing of an F Visa.

 

 

     Before we review the process, first let me familiarize the public with exactly what a visa is (No, it's not a credit card) in respect to studying ESL or at an institution in the U.S. A visa is a document usually located inside your passport that demonstrates a person is authorized to enter and leave the territory for which it was issued. It may be a document, but usually it is a stamp located inside the person's passport. It's important to note that some countries do not require a visa  in some situations including treaty agreements. Countries like S. Korea and Hong Kong in the East do not require a visa for its U.S. visitors. A visa is not a green card, or permission for a non-citizen to automatically become a U.S. citizen over night; however, if studying in the U.S. you are allowed to obtain a U.S. driver's license and other benefits, but no social security number what so ever.   

 

Sample of U.S. Visa issued in China by the U.S. Consulate in Shenyang, CN

 

     There are different kinds of visas, and they all are identified by one letter.  For studying in the U.S., most people need to obtain an F (Student) Visa. Different visas allow people to do certain things, but make no mistake; an individual is NOT permitted to work in the U.S. if they are in the U.S. with a visitor (B) or studying (F) visa. If a student is found working outside of his/her visa agreement, they are usually deported and can be subject to banishment from the U.S.   

 

 

How to Obtain a Student F Visa 

• You must gain acceptance to an institution that is SEVIS Certified by the U.S. Government to enroll international learners. Different institutions require different qualifications, however; after acceptance, the institution will send a form I-20 to you in your respective address in your country.
• After you receive your I-20, you must next go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country to receive a U.S. issued F Visa. YOU MUST PAY AN I-901 FEE ($180-$200 USD)
• After paying your I-901 fee, you are eligible for a U.S. F Visa.
• If you meet qualifications, then you are awarded your U.S. F Visa which is usually good for a one year program.
• Congratulations, you are now ready to study ESL in the United States at the institution you desired.  Make certain to notify your institution once you have arrived so that they may properly update you into the SEVIS system.

     Well, there you have it. I hope this helps those who want to come to the U.S. to study ESL, and clears up any issues or misunderstandings about immigration policies the U.S. has towards international students.

Best,
#mr.ford