USA Student Visa
To study in the United States as an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa. There are three main types of USA student visas: F-1, M-1, and J-1.
Types of Student Visas
- F-1 Visa (Academic Student)
- Purpose: For full-time students enrolled in an academic program, language training program, or other academic institutions.
- Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate at an institution authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.
- Work Options: F-1 students can work on-campus during their first academic year. After the first year, they may engage in off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), or STEM OPT extension.
- M-1 Visa (Vocational Student)
- Purpose: For students enrolled in vocational or non-academic programs, excluding language training.
- Eligibility: Similar to the F-1 visa, but specific to vocational studies.
- Work Options: M-1 students can engage in practical training only after completing their studies.
- J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor)
- Purpose: For students participating in exchange programs, including those for study and work.
- Eligibility: Must be approved to participate in an exchange program.
- Work Options: J-1 students may work as part of their exchange program, but must contact their program sponsor for specific work permissions.
Application Process
- Acceptance by SEVP-Certified School: You must first be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school in the U.S.
- Pay the SEVIS Fee: After receiving your acceptance, pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
- Complete the Visa Application: Fill out the DS-160 form online and pay the visa application fee.
- Schedule and Attend Visa Interview: Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Bring all required documents, including your passport, Form I-20 (for F-1 and M-1 visas) or DS-2019 (for J-1 visas), and proof of financial support.
These are general guidelines, and specific requirements can vary case by case. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements with a visa expert.
Contact the Career Abroad Team for your profile assessment for admission at the French institutions and your visa process.
Working While Studying
- F-1 Visa: On-campus employment is allowed during the first academic year. After that, students can apply for CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT extension.
- M-1 Visa: Practical training is allowed only after completing the program.
- J-1 Visa: Work permissions depend on the specific exchange program and must be approved by the program sponsor.
Extending or Renewing Your Visa
If you need to extend your stay or renew your visa, you must follow the procedures outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This may involve submitting additional documentation and paying renewal fees.
Studying in the U.S. offers a wealth of opportunities, from access to world-class education to the chance to experience American culture and build a global network. If you have any specific questions about the process, feel free to ask!