Practical experiences such as internships and cooperative education programs, coupled with robust alumni networks, prepare graduates for global careers.Additionally, post-study work options like Optional Practical Training (OPT) and potential pathways to permanent residency enhance the appeal of pursuing higher education in the United States.
How is a US student visa (F1) obtained?
The F-1 visa serves as the gateway for international students aspiring to study in the United States. This non-immigrant visa allows students to enroll in academic programs at SEVP-certified institutions. To obtain an F-1 visa, students must first be accepted into a qualified school, which will issue an I-20 form certifying their enrollment. After paying the SEVIS fee, students can schedule a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate.
The visa process requires students to demonstrate their academic intent, financial capability, and ties to their home country. Once approved, the F-1 visa permits students to stay in the US for the duration of their studies, with opportunities for on-campus employment and potential post-graduation work authorization through OPT.
How to renew your F1 US student visa?
If your F-1 student visa expires before your program concludes, you may be eligible for a renewal. To renew your F-1 visa, you must reapply from your home country or another country at a US embassy or consulate, though applying from your home country is generally preferable. Renewing your visa is advisable if you plan on leaving and returning to the US, even if your Form I-20 remains valid, as having an expired visa could complicate travel plans.
Typically, a renewed F-1 visa is issued for another year. If you need to stay longer to complete your program, you can apply for another renewal when your current visa expires.
Procedure to renew F1 US student visa
Here is a step-by-step breakdown for renewing the F1 US student visa.
- Fill in the visa application: Complete the online Form DS-160 and print the confirmation page.
- Schedule an appointment: Make an appointment at your local embassy or consulate for your visa interview. You may be eligible for an interview waiver if you meet specific conditions.
- Assemble the required documents: Prepare the original documents required for your initial F-1 visa application, including any necessary apostille stamps and translations.
- Pay the application fee: Ensure you pay the fee before your interview and keep the receipt.
- Attend the visa interview: Attend your interview with the required documents. If you meet the same criteria as your initial application, you will likely receive your visa renewal.
Note that after applying for your F-1 visa renewal, you are required to stay in the country where you applied until your application is processed and approved.
Documents required to renew F1 US student visa
When renewing your F-1 visa, you will need:
- A passport valid for at least six months after your planned departure from the US.
- A visa picture.
- The confirmation page of Form DS-160.
- Form I-20 from your education provider.
- Supporting university records, including descriptions of your study program and research activities, school transcripts, a CV, a letter of confirmation for your current program, evidence of paid visa fees, funding proof, and proof of no criminal activity during your stay.
- Proof of intent to return to your home country.
Procedure to obtain an extension on your F1 US student visa
If your visa is about to expire while you are abroad, you can renew it before it expires if you plan to re-enter the US. Typically, you must wait for your visa to expire before renewing it.
Alternatively, you can extend your F-1 visa, which differs from renewing it. To extend your visa, you usually need to complete post-graduation Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT allows you to work for 12 months under a US employer, either part-time or full-time. After this period, your employer can sponsor you for an H-1B visa, allowing you to change your status. Further, if you are a STEM student, you can extend your OPT for up to 24 months.
