U.S. F-1 Visa Breakdown for International Students: Requirements & Application
Dreaming of studying in the U.S.? Your journey begins with this guide.
At AF International School of Language in Los Angeles, we guide you through every step—from application to arrival—so you can focus on learning English and achieving your academic goals.
Overview: What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- F-1 Visa Basics: What it is and who it’s for.
- Application Process: Step-by-step guide from school acceptance to visa interview.
- Required Documents: Essential paperwork for your visa application.
- Visa Interview Prep: Tips for answering common questions and ensuring success.
- Post-Approval Info: What to expect after visa approval and your arrival in the U.S.
What Is an F-1 Visa?
An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time at SEVP-certified institutions in the United States. This includes:
- Universities and colleges
- Language schools and non-degree programs
- Private secondary schools (SEVP-certified)
To qualify, you must be enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school.
(If you’re already in the U.S. and need to renew your F-1 visa, check out our F‑1 Visa Renewal Guide.)
Why is an F-1 Visa Important? Learn Who It Is For
The F-1 visa is for those who:
- Wish to study full-time in the United States
- Are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Enroll in a program at an SEVP-certified institution
Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply for a U.S. F-1 Visa
Here’s how you can apply for a U.S F-1 Visa:
- Get Accepted by a SEVP-Certified School
Apply and receive your I-20 form. - Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
Retain the payment confirmation. - Complete the DS-160 Online Application
Print the confirmation page. - Pay the MRV (Visa Application) Fee
Keep the receipt. - Schedule Your Visa Interview
Book early at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. - Prepare Documents & Attend Interview
Bring all required documents and answer questions about your study plans. - Administrative Processing (221(g))
Some applications may require additional review.
| NOTE: Begin at least 6–12 months before your program start date to account for processing and appointment wait times. |
F-1 Visa Requirements: Documents, Proofs, and More
To meet F-1 visa requirements, you must demonstrate the following:
- Valid Passport: With at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay
- I-20 Form: Signed by you and your DSO
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank letters, loan approvals, sponsor affidavits
| NOTE: While there’s no fixed amount, having at least USD 10,000 in your bank account is always a good idea. |
- Ties to Home Country: Job letters, property deeds, family info
- English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS scores or ESL enrollment proof
- IELTS: 6.0 to 6.5 Overall Bands
- TOEFL: 90 to 100 Score
- Acceptance Letter: From your SEVP-certified institution
What to Expect at Your Visa Interview
Common questions:
- Why study in the U.S.?
- Why this institution or program?
- How will you fund your education?
- What are your plans after graduation?
- How will this benefit you back home?
Tips:
- Answer clearly and concisely
- Bring all documents
- Be honest and respectful
(If denied under Section 214(b), address concerns about non-immigrant intent before reapplying.)
After Visa Approval: Preparing for Arrival
- Receive a passport with an F-1 stamp
- Carry I-20, passport, and SEVIS receipt at the Port of Entry
- Enter U.S. up to 30 days before start date
- 60-day grace period after program end or OPT
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Incomplete or incorrect forms (e.g., DS-160 Form): Double-check details
- Poor interview preparation: Practice answers
- Insufficient financial proof: Show full coverage
- Weak ties to home country: Provide clear evidence
- Late application: Start early
Understanding Denials & Administrative Processing
- 214(b) Denials: Often due to a lack of demonstrated non-immigrant intent (meaning the consular officer doubts your intention to return to your home country after completing your studies). To reapply, focus on providing stronger evidence of ties to your home country, such as significant financial holdings, family responsibilities, or job prospects.
- 221(g) Processing: This indicates that your application requires additional administrative processing, which could involve further security or document checks. Allow extra time for this process. The embassy or consulate will typically contact you if they require further information or documentation.
F-1 Visa and Work
- On-Campus Employment: ≤20 hrs/week during terms; ≤40 hrs/week breaks
- CPT: DSO authorization; integral to curriculum; after one academic year
- OPT: Up to 12 months post-completion; STEM extension possible
- Economic Hardship: Off-campus work with DSO and USCIS approval
Maintaining Your F-1 Status After Arrival
- Full-time enrollment each term
- Keep passport valid
- Report address, program, and funding changes to DSO
- Update I-20 for program changes or extensions
- Obtain a travel signature before U.S. trips
- Follow employment rules strictly
A Note to F-2 Dependents
- Spouse and unmarried children may join on F-2 visas
- Part-time study only (except K-12)
- No employment permitted
- Show additional financial support
Begin Your ESL Journey in Los Angeles
Your dream of studying in Los Angeles is within reach. The F-1 visa process may seem complex, but with proper preparation and support from the AF International School of Language, you can navigate it step by step.
Ready to start your ESL journey? Call us at (626) 689-9362
Have questions? Contact our admissions team
We look forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles!
Clickable F-1 Student Visa USA Requirements Application Checklist: Do You Have Everything Sorted?
Pre-Application Steps
- Apply & be accepted by a SEVP school
- Receive I-20 form
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
- Complete DS-160 form
- Pay the MRV fee
- Schedule a visa interview
Interview Documents
- I-20 form (signed)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS fee receipt
- MRV fee receipt
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-style photos (2×2 in.)
- Financial support documents
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency proof
- Acceptance letter
- Evidence of home-country ties
(Optional but helpful: Statement of purpose, housing info, resume/CV, health insurance proof.)
FAQ: For a Student Visa
Q: What documents prove financial support?
A: Bank letters on official letterhead, loan approval letters, sponsor affidavits with bank statements, and employment letters.
Q: How long does the F-1 visa process take?
A: Typically 2–4 months, depending on embassy wait times and processing.
Q: Can I change programs or schools?
A: Yes—update your I-20 before transferring and notify your DSO.
Q: What if I lose my passport or I-20?
A: Report immediately to your DSO and local embassy/consulate.
Q: Can I apply for my F-1 visa before getting my Form I-20?
A: No. The school’s official Form I-20 is required before applying for the visa.
Q: How early can I apply for the F-1 visa before my program starts?
A: Up to 365 days before. Apply early (6-12 months recommended) due to processing times. Note: You can only enter the U.S. 30 days before your start date.
Q: Can multiple sponsors cover my study costs?
A: Yes. Provide clear financial proof (bank statements, affidavits) from each sponsor showing their ability and intent to support you.
Q: What’s an I-20 “travel signature” and when is it needed?
A: A DSO signature on your I-20 (page 2) is needed for re-entering the U.S. after travel abroad during studies. Get it before you leave the U.S.
Q: What if I need a temporary break (leave of absence) from studies?
A: Requires prior DSO authorization to maintain F-1 status. Unauthorized breaks violate status. Always consult your DSO first.
Q: How do I handle my visa status if I pursue another degree after ESL?
A: Transfer your SEVIS record. Get accepted, get a new I-20 from the new school, and coordinate the transfer with both DSOs before your current program ends.
Q: What’s the recommended attire for the F-1 visa interview?
A: Dress professionally or business casual (neat, clean). It shows respect and seriousness about your studies.
| Resources & Support U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs Study in the States (SEVP) CEAC Your local U.S. embassy/consulate website |
