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What’s a U.S. student visa?

A U.S. student visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to study at accredited educational institutions in the United States. There are three main types of U.S. student visas: F-1 for academic studies, J-1 for exchange programs, and M-1 for vocational studies.

Types of U.S. student visas

F-1 visa: Academic studies

The F-1 visa is the most common type of student visa for international students enrolling in academic programs at U.S. colleges and universities.

  • Eligibility: You must be accepted into a full-time program at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved institution.
  • Duration: The visa is valid for the duration of your academic program, plus a 60-day grace period.
  • Work options: Limited on-campus employment; off-campus work permitted through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

J-1 visa: Exchange visitors

The J-1 visa is for students participating in exchange programs that promote cultural exchange, including study and research programs. J-1 visa applicants include professors, teachers, trainees, interns, high-school students and others.

  • Eligibility: Participation in an exchange program approved by the Department of State
  • Duration: Valid for the duration of the exchange program, plus a 30-day grace period
  • Work options: Employment is permitted under the terms of the exchange program, typically related to academic training

M-1 visa: Vocational studies

The M-1 visa is designed for students enrolling in non-academic or vocational programs, such as technical and trade schools.

  • Eligibility: Enrollment in a recognized vocational or non-academic institution
  • Duration: Valid for the length of the program plus a 30-day grace period
  • Work options: Limited; students may work only for practical training after completing their studies
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U.S. student visa application process

Acceptance by a SEVP-approved school

Before applying for a student visa, you must be accepted by a US-certified school eligible to enroll F-1 and M-1 students. Upon acceptance, the school will issue you a Form I-20 (F-1 or M-1 visa) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 visa).

Pay the SEVIS fee

You must pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee three days before your visa interview. This fee supports the maintenance of the SEVIS database, which tracks students and exchange visitors in the U.S.

Complete the DS-160 form

The DS-160 is the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application form. This form is required for all non-immigrant visa applicants and must be completed online.

Schedule and attend your visa interview

You must schedule a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, a consular officer will determine your eligibility for the student visa.

Gather required documents

Prepare the following documents for your visa interview:

  • Valid passport
  • Form I-20 or DS-2019
  • DS-160 confirmation page
  • Visa application fee payment receipt
  • SEVIS fee payment receipt
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Financial evidence showing you can cover tuition and living expenses
  • Academic transcripts and test scores
  • Proof of ties to your home country

Maintaining your visa status

Full-time enrollment

You must maintain full-time enrollment throughout your program. Dropping below full-time status without authorization can jeopardize your visa status.

Work restrictions

F-1 students can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the school term and full-time during breaks. J-1 students must adhere to the work limitations specified by their program. M-1 students have very limited work opportunities.

Extension and renewal

If your program requires more time than initially anticipated, or you plan on moving to the United States, you must apply for an extension or visa transfer before your current visa expires. Consult your school’s international student office for assistance with this process.

Other requirements

Some visas come with additional requirements essential for maintaining your eligible status. For example, F and M visa holders must enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before their program of study begins and maintain a valid health insurance plan. Reach out to your designated school official (DSO) to learn about other applicable requirements.

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MPOWER Financing offers benefits beyond funding

MPOWER Financing believes funding a student’s education is only the beginning of success. That’s why every MPOWER student gets access to free, exclusive career, visa and study abroad financial aid resources through its Path2Success program.

Visa support

MPOWER helps students understand and navigate how to apply for student visas, including their visa interview.

MPOWER’s visa support services include:

  • A free visa support letter demonstrating students are financially supported for school
  • A free visa essentials course, so students are fully prepared for their visa interview

Visa support upgrades

Also, MPOWER offers personalized mock interviews and live Q&A webinars for students who want additional support (US$99 fee required).

For a fee, MPOWER students also have access to speak with former U.S. visa officers.

Career services

MPOWER recognizes the significance of securing a professional career in the United States. Students are not alone in this journey – MPOWER Financing is here to support the internship and full-time job search.

MPOWER offers exclusive career services including:

  • A guided internship and job search tool for F-1, OPT and H-1B visa-sponsored roles
  • A resume builder to match targeted job requirements
  • Job application support with profile and skill set match
  • A directory of F-1 eligible job roles for STEM and non-STEM degrees

Financial services

MPOWER enables students to access U.S. currency as soon as they arrive at their university, allowing students to hit the ground running.

MPOWER partners offer:

  • A prequalified U.S. credit card with cashback benefits
  • A prequalified no-minimum-balance U.S. bank account

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FAQs

How long does it take to get a U.S. student visa?

The processing time for a U.S. student visa can vary. It generally takes a few weeks, but it can take longer depending on the embassy or consulate’s workload and your individual circumstances. It’s recommended that you apply as early as possible.

What happens if my visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, the consular officer will provide a reason for the denial. You can reapply, but you should address the issues that led to the denial before doing so. It may help to gather additional supporting documents and review the USA student visa requirements.

How can I extend my stay in the U.S.?

To extend your stay, you must apply for an extension through your school’s international student office before your visa expires. The office will guide you through the process and ensure you maintain your status. You may need to provide updated financial documents and a valid reason for the extension.

Can I travel outside the U.S. on a student visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. while on a student visa, but you must ensure your visa and Form I-20 or DS-2019 are valid for re-entry. Always consult your international student office before traveling to ensure you meet all re-entry requirements.

*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR) available only for the fall 2025 semester, and you must submit your application by January 31, 2025. This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments and a 0.75% discount from our limited-time early planner promotion.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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