Q. What Does F-1 Mean In Visa?

An F-1 visa, also termed a non-immigrant visa, is used for higher education within the United States. F-1 visa is also obligatory for enrollment to a college or university across the United States. F-1 is also a pre-requisite for private elementary school, high school, courses in language training, conservatory, seminary, or different academic institutions.

Eligibility For F-1 Visa

The F-1 visa requirements are:

• Apply and be approved into a study course at a SEVP-acknowledged school in the USA. SEVP-accepted schools are not merely universities - they can even be seminaries, high schools, conservatories, private elementary schools, or a language program.
• You must be skilled in English or be admitted to courses resulting in English proficiency.
• You must be enlisted as a regular student at the institution.
• Possess proof of adequate financial funds to back study in the US.
• Reside outside the USA when you apply.
• Have links to your home country that reveal an intention to return on completing study in the USA.

After being approved by your preferred school, you will get officially enlisted into the SEVP and need to pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee. When all fees are paid, and your account becomes credible, an I-20 form will be offered by your educational program or institution. The I-20 comprises an official immigration document, endorsed by the Designated School Official (DSO) of your university, that enumerates your program dates, school name, financial liabilities, and educational program information. By using your SEVIS number (present on the I-20 form), you will plan an interview appointment with a regional US embassy or consulate, which will grant you an F-1 visa to be an official international student! 

The F-1 visa is issued for 5 years, only legally, along with a genuine I-20 form.