An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time at an accredited institution in the United States:

Eligibility: Students can apply for an F-1 visa to attend:

Universities, colleges, seminaries, conservatories, and academic high schools

Language training programs

Private elementary or secondary schools that issue an I-20 form

Validity: An F-1 visa is valid for the duration of the student's course of study.

Work: F-1 students can work on campus and sometimes off campus.

Application process:The State Department is responsible for the visa application process and issuing the visa.

Maintaining status: F-1 students should speak with their DSO if they plan to:

Change their major, program, or degree level

Transfer to a new school or take a leave of absence

Take a break from school

Travel outside the United States

Move to a new address

Request a program extension

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security takes over as the responsible agency for entry into the country once a visa holder arrives in the United States.