Study Full-Time at a U.S. Educational Institution
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for international students who want to pursue full-time academic studies in the United States at accredited colleges, universities, high schools, language training programs, or other academic institutions.
At Borderless Lawyers, we guide students through the F-1 visa process to help you achieve your educational goals in the U.S.
✅ What Is the F-1 Visa?
-
Non-immigrant visa for full-time academic students
-
Allows study at U.S. institutions approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
-
Valid for the duration of the academic program plus optional practical training
-
May permit on-campus employment and Optional Practical Training (OPT)
-
Dependents may accompany on F-2 visas (no work authorization)
🔍 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the F-1 visa, applicants must:
-
Be accepted by a SEVP-certified school
-
Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses
-
Prove intent to return home after completing studies
-
Maintain a residence abroad
-
Possess a valid Form I-20 issued by the school
-
Maintain full-time student status throughout the program
📋 F-1 Visa Application Process
1. Obtain Form I-20
Receive Form I-20 from your chosen SEVP-certified school upon admission.
2. Pay SEVIS Fee
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before your visa interview.
3. Complete Form DS-160
Fill out the online non-immigrant visa application form.
4. Schedule and Attend Visa Interview
Attend your interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, providing financial proof and educational documents.
5. Visa Issuance and Entry
Once approved, enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date.
💡 Benefits of the F-1 Visa
-
Full-time academic study in the U.S.
-
Opportunities for on-campus employment and internships (CPT)
-
Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work after graduation
-
Dependents can live with you on F-2 visas
-
Pathway to other visa categories after study completion
🧾 Our F-1 Visa Legal Services
-
School and program selection guidance
-
SEVIS and Form I-20 assistance
-
DS-160 preparation and review
-
Visa interview preparation and coaching
-
Post-arrival status maintenance support
-
OPT and CPT application guidance
🌐 Ready to Study in the U.S.?
Our immigration attorneys provide expert support to help you obtain your F-1 visa and succeed in your academic journey.