What is the F-1 Visa?
The F-1 visa is the most common visa for international students attending academic programs in the United States. It allows you to study full-time at an accredited US college, university, or language training program.
Full-time study required
Minimum 12 credit hours per semester
Work authorization available
On-campus work and OPT/CPT opportunities
Grace period after graduation
60 days to prepare for departure or change status
SEVIS Fee (I-901)
One-time payment
$350
Visa Application Fee
MRV fee (non-refundable)
$185
Visa Issuance Fee
Varies by country
$0 - $160
Visa Application Process
Follow these steps to successfully apply for your F-1 student visa.
12–18 months before
Research programs and universities
12 months before
Take standardized tests (SAT, GRE, TOEFL)
9–12 months before
Request recommendation letters
6–9 months before
Write essays and prepare documents
4–6 months before
Submit applications
2–4 months before
Receive decisions, accept offer
2–3 months before
Apply for F-1 visa
1 month before
Arrange housing and travel
Required Documents
Checklist of documents you’ll need for your application.
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended, with English translation if needed.
Passport
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay.
Statement of Purpose
Essay explaining your academic goals, career plans, and why you chose this program.
Letters of Recommendation
2-3 letters from professors or employers who know your work well.
Standardized Test Scores
SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for graduate programs (if required).
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended, with English translation if needed.
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended, with English translation if needed.
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended, with English translation if needed.
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended, with English translation if needed.
Avoid Common Rejection Reasons
Understanding why visas get denied helps you prepare a stronger application.
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
- Insufficient financial documents
- Provide comprehensive bank statements and sponsor letters
Need Help With Your Visa Application?
Our experts can guide you through the entire visa process and conduct mock interviews.