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Studies F-1, M-1
If you wish to study in the United States, there are two main categories of visas for international students:
- F-1: For academic or language studies.
- M-1: For vocational or non-academic studies.
Both visas allow students to enter the country to pursue their educational goals at institutions approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Difference between F-1 and M-1
- F-1 (Academic Student Visa):
- For students who wish to enroll in academic programs at colleges, universities, high schools, language programs, or approved institutions.
- Allows certain limited employment options under specific conditions, such as CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training).
- M-1 (Vocational Student Visa):
- Designed for students attending technical or vocational training programs, such as culinary, aviation, or technology schools.
- It does not allow employment while studying, except in very specific circumstances.
Requirements to Apply
- Letter of admission:
- Be accepted into an approved Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) educational institution.
- Be accepted into an approved Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) educational institution.
- Form I-20:
- Provided by the school or institution where he/she was admitted, detailing the costs and duration of the program.
- Provided by the school or institution where he/she was admitted, detailing the costs and duration of the program.
- Proof of financial solvency:
- Demonstrate that you can cover the costs of the educational program, as well as your living expenses during your stay.
- Demonstrate that you can cover the costs of the educational program, as well as your living expenses during your stay.
- Intention to return to the country of origin:
- Evidence of ties to your country of residence to ensure that you will return after completing your studies.
- Evidence of ties to your country of residence to ensure that you will return after completing your studies.
- Proficiency in English:
- Certify that you have the necessary level of English to complete your program or that the institution offers a support plan.
Processing Times
The time to obtain an F-1 or M-1 visa depends on the consulate or embassy where you apply:
- Waiting time for interview: 2 to 6 weeks (varies by region).
- Processing after interview: 1 to 3 weeks, although in some cases additional time may be required for administrative reviews.
It is recommended to apply at least 3 months prior to the start of the program.
Length of Stay
- F-1: Valid for the duration of the academic program and allows up to 60 additional days after completion of studies.
- M-1:Allows an initial stay equivalent to the duration of the program (maximum 1 year) with possible limited extensions.
Visa Fee
- Application fee: $185 USD (may vary by country).
- SEVIS Fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System):
- $350 USD for F-1.
- $220 USD for M-1.
How to hire our services for your visa application?
Before starting the process, we recommend that you schedule a 1-hour immigration consultation with our expert U.S. immigration attorney. During this session, you will resolve your doubts and receive personalized advice about your case.
Exclusive benefit: The cost of the consultation will be applied as an advance to the fees of the application process for this type of visa.
Schedule your appointment here: https://www.immilandcanada.com/law/estados-unidos
If you prefer to know more details about this service and its costs, please visit the following link:
https://www.immilandcanada.com/law/contratacion-servicios-usa