F1 Visa

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is F-1 student visa?
2. How do I qualify for F-1 visa?
3. What privileges do I enjoy on F-1 visa?
4. What are the limitations of F-1 visa?
5. How long can I stay in the U.S. on F-1 visa?
6. Can I extend my stay in the U.S. on F-1 visa if I am unable to complete my studies in the assigned time?
7. Can I change status while on F-1 visa?
8. What is the Form I-20?
9. Are there any travel restrictions on F-1 visa?
10. Can I work on F-1 visa?
11. What is an emergent circumstance for off-campus employment purposes?
12. What are examples of unforeseen circumstances for economic hardship for the purposes of off-campus employment?
13. What are the requirements to obtain work authorization for off-campus employment?
14. Can I work while I wait for the Employment Authorization Document for off-campus employment?
15. What are the primary characteristics of post-completion Optional Practical Training?
16. What are the primary characteristics of the STEM Optional Practical Training Extension?
17. How do I apply for an F-1 visa?
18. Where do I file my F-1 visa application?
19. What is the processing time for F-1 visa?
20. Can I bring my dependents on F-1 visa?
21. Can my dependents work on F-2 visa?
22. Can my dependents study on F-2 visa?
23. Under what circumstances could I 'fall out of status'?
24. What happens if I fall out of status but want to resume valid F-1 status in the U.S.?
25. What are the requirements for F-1 Reinstatement?
26. What are the requirements for a transfer to another school?
27. Can I get an F-1 visa to attend a public school in the U.S.
28. Can a public high school waive the tuition requirement for a deserving F-1 foreign high school student?
29. Are there similar restriction for private elementary or high schools?
30. Can organizations or individuals sponsor an F-1 foreign student to attend public secondary school?
31. Does a K-12 district need to compute a separate per student cost for secondary students?
32. What if my F-1 visa expires while I am in the U.S.?
33. When must I renew my F-1 visa?
34. What documents will prove my intent to return to my home country after the completion of my studies?
35. Can I apply for F-1 visa in a country other than my home country?
36. In what situations can my F-1 visa be denied?
37. What can I do if my visa request is denied?