F-1 and M-1, Student Visas

F1: Temporary visa allowed for students who are coming to the U.S. for educational purposes are known as F1 visas. They must be enrolled in full-time studies with the school, present a SEVIS Form I-20 issued by the school and show sufficient financial support.

Duration of status for those on F-1 visa: all students will be admitted a maximum of 30 days prior to the program start date. D/S means the duration of studies/educational requirement; thereafter, they have 60 days to depart the U.S., transfer to another school, or change status (for example, to H-1B).

F-1 visa holders must demonstrate the following:

• Acceptance to study at an established college, university, or other academic institution or in a language training program in the United States approved by the Attorney General
• Ability to demonstrate status as a bona fide student with nonimmigrant intent and strong ties to the home country
• Ability and credentials to qualify for the intended full course of study in a SEVP certified institution
• Proficiency in the English language may be a requirement depending on the course of study and evidence of sufficient funds to attend the university or college to which she/he has been admitted to study and live in the United States for the duration of the program

F-1 Reinstatement: Students may be reinstated by filing an I-539 along with SEVIS Form I-20 if they can demonstrate them:

1. ) Have not been out of status for more than 5 months or that there were exceptional circumstances and the request was filed promptly,
2. ) No record or willful violation of Service regulations,
3. ) Intending to pursue a full course of studies,
4. ) Not engaged in unauthorized employment,
5. ) Not deportable on any other ground other than being out of status,
6. ) And demonstrated that violation resulted from circumstances beyond their control (ex: natural disaster, institute closure, serious injury or illness, etc.)

M1:

Temporary visa allowed for vocational studies or other nonacademic curriculum (including language training) are known as M1 visas.  M-1 includes flight schools, cooking schools, etc.  Requires full-time studies and same general criteria as required for F-1 students.  Reinstatement is allowed (same requirements as above).