Students Visa American Immigration Help

Students use F-1 visas for academic programs and M-1 visas for vocational programs.
The key difference between the two categories is that M-1 holders may not change to another nonimmigrant status while in the U.S. Generally, both visa categories are issued for the duration of the approved educational program. In both cases, visa procedures may be initiated from the U.S. or abroad.
To be eligible for either of these visas the student must first be accepted by a school. Once the student is accepted the school will prepare Form I-20 for the student to submit to the INS or to a consulate. The I-20 Form provides information about the student's course of study and his means of financial support.

Procedure to Obtain an F-1 Student Visa

The procedure for obtaining an F-1 student visa is as follows:

Step 1. Be accepted by a school.
Step 2. Obtain Form I-20 from the school. Form I-20 details the proposed course of study and estimates the financial resources necessary to complete the course of study.
Step 3. If in the U.S., send Form I-506 Change of Status, Form I-20 and proof of financial support to the appropriate INS Regional Processing Center. If the INS approves the petition, the INS will respond with an endorsed I-94 evidencing student status. If abroad, fill out the consular application forms, supply Form I-20 from the school as well as proof of financial support. The consul will signify approval by issuing an F-1 or M-1 visa.

The consuls and INS ask three key questions when reviewing student visa applications.

1. Do you intend to complete a full-time course of study?
Be prepared to submit past school records and letters of recommendation from teachers as evidence.
2.Do you have financial support?
Produce proof of adequate funds and/or show the financial statement of a sponsor on Form I-134, Affavidit of Support.
3.Will you return to your home country after your studies are completed?
Prove this intention by demonstrating close family ties in your home country and/or a network of friends, relatives or job prospects.

How to Work while on a Student Visa

1. On-Campus Employment:
Any full-time student in good academic standing may work 20 hours a week at an on-campus facility during the school year and full-time between quarters or semesters.

2. Pilot Off-Campus Employment Program
This program permits 20 hours a week of off-campus employment at a private business.

3.Curricular Practical Training
This training must be offered in connection with a field of study. Generally, students must arrange curricular practical training with academic advisors, with the school processing the necessary paperwork.
4. Post-Completion Practical Training Program
This popular program permits students to work off-campus for one year after completion of all degree requirements. Application for this program must be made between 90 days before and 30 days after completion of a course of study. To become eligible for this program, first find a job and then seek the school's approval of the employment. The school files the necessary forms with the INS. After INS approval, you will receive an Employment Authorization Card (Form I-765) to work legally.