Student Visa (F-1, M-1, or J-1) Application Process

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Life in the U.S. on a Student or Exchange Visitor Visa

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Interested in studying in the United States? Here's how the application process will work for an F-1 or M-1 visa or status.

Student Visa Application Process From Overseas

Application Process for an F-1 or M-1 Visa From Overseas
Learn what forms, fees, documents, and other items you'll need to prepare in order to apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa for U.S. study.

How to Apply for a J-1 Visa From Overseas
Gathering your documents, attending your interview, and more.

Application Process for a Temporary (Nonimmigrant) U.S. Visa
Access a series of articles directed at all applicants for a U.S. temporary visa, concerning the process, interview, and more.

How Long It Takes to Get a Student Visa to the U.S.
Planning ahead when applying for an F-1 or M-1 student visa.

Attending Your F-1 or M-1 Student Visa Interview
A step-by-step guide to interacting with the U.S. consular officer who reviews your student visa application.

After Your Student Visa Is Approved: What’s Next?
So the consular officer has decided to approve your F-2 or M-1 visa request: Now what?

What to Do If Your Student Visa Is Denied
Possibilities to appeal or reapply for an F-1 or M-1 visa for study in the United States.

Will I get my school tuition refunded if my student visa is denied?
Most schools refund prepaid tuition, but not application fees and similar processing fees.

Student Status Application If Already Legally in the U.S.

Application Process for an F-1 or Student Visa: Changing Status If Already in the U.S.
Using Form I-539 if you're already lawfully in the U.S. and wish to switch to student status.

How to Apply for J-1 Status From Within the U.S.
If you're already in the U.S. and planning to join an exchange program, you may be able to apply for a change of status, without leaving for a U.S. consular appointment.

Attending Your F-1 or M-1 Student Visa Interview
A step-by-step guide to interacting with the U.S. consular officer who reviews your student visa application.

Can someone who came from England on the VWP switch to M-1 vocational student status?
A visa waiver program entrant will have to leave the U.S. in order to apply for an M-1 vocational student visa.

More Information on Student Visa Application Process

Financial Resources You’ll Need to Qualify for a U.S. Student Visa
How to show that you'll be able to pay for your U.S. education.

Documents Needed When Applying for a Student Visa (F-1 or M-1)
Make sure your application is complete and convincing, with the help of this handy list of needed documents.

How to Prove Intent to Return Home After Studying in the U.S.
To qualify for an F-1 or M-1 visa, you will need to show that you aren't secretly planning to remain in the U.S. even after your student stay if over.

Renewing Your F-1 or M-1 Student Visa at a U.S. Consulate
If you'll be leaving the U.S. with an expired student visa, make sure you're ready to apply for a renewal.