USA Student Visa Guide (2026): F-1, M-1 & How to Pass the Interview?

F-1 and M-1 are the major student visas for international students to study in the USA. F-1 permits on- or off-campus employment during studies, while M-1 permits employment after graduation.

The United States of America has a strong and world-class education system. The country's schools and universities are among the most prestigious in the world, attracting millions of international students. However, obtaining a student visa for the USA is somewhat complex but not impossible.

Students feel anxious about rejection, complex forms, and strict interviews. To go through all these, you should understand the process and follow it wisely. In this guide, I will discuss which student visa is ideal for you.

Similarly, I will explain the application process and guide you in preparing for the interview to meet the interviewers' expectations.

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Which Visa Do You Need?

There are three main types of visas for students: F-1, M-1, and J-1. Which one of the following is perfect for you? It generally depends on your school, the nature of the program and employment. Here is a breakdown of these visas to clear up any confusion.

F-1 Visa (Academic Students)

F-1 is the standard visa for international students in the US. The visa allows foreigners to pursue a full-time 4- or 2-year degree, such as a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD.

Work Authorisation: The F-1 visa allows students to work on campus for up up-to 20 hours per week to support themselves financially. After a year, they can get the permit for off-campus Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Duration: The USA F-1 visa is generally issued for 5 years. The actual validity of the visa is determined by the Duration of Status, which is listed on Form I-20. The form indicates how long students can stay in the US, which covers the academic program length plus a 60-day grace period.

M-1 Visa (Vocational Students)

M-1 is not intended for academic purposes, unlike F-1. It is ideal for students in non-academic, vocational, or technical programs. The visa for joining flight schools, cooking schools, or technical training.

Work Authorisation: An M-1 visa doesn’t allow work while studying. You can’t work on or off campus. Practical training is permitted only after completion of studies. After completing the course, students can apply for training directly related to their vocational field.
Duration: The visa remains valid for one year, with extensions possible up to three years.
Documents: If you are applying for the M-1 visa for flight training or any other course, you will require Form I-20M-N.

Note: M-1 visa holders can’t transfer schools after 6 months and cannot switch to an F-1 program.

J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitors)

The J-1 visa is specialised for educational and cultural exchange programs (e.g., Summer Work Travel, Au Pairs, Campus Exchange, Fulbright).

Work Authorisation: A J-1 visa holder may work if part of an exchange program, such as academic training or on-campus work.
Requirement: Sometimes J-1 holders are required to return home for two years after their program. After that, they can return to the U.S. on certain work visas.
Document Required: Need the Form DS-2019.

The "Golden Ticket": The I-20 Form

Form I-20 is called the Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status. It is also known as the Golden Ticket for foreigners and the legal permit to study in the USA. The form confirms that a student has been admitted to a full-time academic program. Similarly, students have sufficient financial resources to cover their tuition and living expenses.

The document is generally issued by the SEVP-certified schools. It is necessary for an F-1 student visa. The most critical component of this document is the SEVIS ID, a unique identifier assigned to you by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

It is shown in the top-right corner of the form and generally starts with the letter N followed by 10 digits, for example, N0087654321.

The Hidden Cost: SEVIS I-901 Fee

Applicants mainly plan for the visa fee and forget about the SEVIS I-901 fee. The fee is separate from the visa application fee ($185), paid to the Department of State.

The fee is non-refundable and mandatory to apply for F-1, M-1, and J-1 before obtaining a USA visa. It is used as a fund for students and the Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

Free structure for SEVIS

F-1/M-1 Students: $350
J-1 Exchange Visitors: $220
J-1 Short-Term Programs: $35

The fee is paid after receiving the I-20 or DS-2019, but ensure you pay it before the interview. You can pay the fee via fmjfee.com. Get a printed I-901 receipt for the visa interview and entry at a U.S. port of entry.

Step-by-Step Application Process

If you receive acceptance from an SEVP-certified school, it helps you secure a student visa for the USA. The essential component of the application process includes Form I-20, SEVIS fee, completion of the DS-160 application, and an interview.

You need to follow the given steps to prepare for your US degree.

Get SEVP-Certified School acceptance: If you plan to study in the USA, the initial step is to receive the official acceptance letter for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Form I-20: If you are accepted, the institution will issue you a Form I-20, called the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
SEVIS Fee: You have to pay the $350 I-901 SEVIS fee through the Department of Homeland Security website.
Fill the DS-160 Form: Fill out the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). Upload the photo and the required documents, such as the confirmation page. Ensure to save the details because th session times out quickly.
Visa application fee: Pay the visa application fee, which is approximately $185.
Schedule the Interview: Book an appointment at the US embassy in your country.
Attend the Visa Interview: Attend the appointment at the U.S. Embassy. Ensure to bring all documents, including a valid passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipt, visa fee payment receipt and proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

The Interview: How to Avoid "214(b)" Rejection?

Generally, visa applicants for the USA face a US visa denial for failing to prove they have a home or job to return to, insufficient funds, or unclear and inconsistent plans. To avoid the 214(b) rejection, show your strong economic, social, and family ties to your country.

Proving "Ties to Home Country"

Demonstrate why you will return home. Show the proof of stable employment, property ownership, and the family obligations to convince the committee. Provide a document that clearly demonstrates you can fund your trip to the United States.

Ensure that your itinerary and travel dates align with your visa type. Answer the questions clearly and honestly and avoid rephrasing.

Note: Remember that all answers should match the information provided in your DS-160 form.

The "Dual Intent" Trap

Even if you hope to stay in the USA forever, never express that you desire to work here permanently. Your intent should be clear: you are here to study, explore, and return to your home country.

Working in the USA: CPT vs. OPT

CPT and OPT both allow students in the USA to work for pay and gain experience. CPT allows students to work while studying. OPT is the job permit after graduation.

CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

Curricular Practical Training is intended for internships as an integral part of an established curriculum.
It generally allows students to work on or off campus during their studies.
It is directly authorised by the Designated School Official (DSO) on the I-20.
Generally has no fee, but requires tuition for the associated credit.

OPT (Optional Practical Training)

It provides students with practical training for jobs directly related to their major.
You can get it before graduation or after graduation.
Students require a recommendation from the DSO and authorisation from USCIS to obtain an EAD card.
Students can work for any employer in their field.
Generally allow a 12-month stay, with a 24-month extension available for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degrees.

Arriving in the USA (Customs & Data)

Upon arrival in the US, the CBP officer will review your documents. Ensure you keep your documents, such as your passport, visa, and I-20 or DS-2019, in your hand luggage, not in the checked bag.

A CBP officer will interview you and can ask about your purpose of travel to the US. After your verification, you can move to your accommodation. To call Uber immediately or check in with your family, you will need an internet connection.

How to Stay Connected in the USA?

Compared with local SIM cards, public Wi-Fi, and roaming packages, I recommend purchasing eSIM plans for your international travel. You can purchase the eSIM upon arrival at the airport or before travelling to the USA.

eSIMCard is the best choice for nomads and students seeking an affordable, effortless connection. The carrier offers short- and long-term data plans to meet users' needs.

Using eSIM for students is ideal to avoid high monthly connectivity bills. eSIM is easy to use and provides an instant connection after QR code activation.

Conclusion

Studying at prestigious universities in the United States of America is a desire of many international students. Students apply for a student visa for the USA but are rejected. There are multiple reasons behind it.

If you are planning to apply for a USA student visa in 2026, initially, you should understand the visa process. In this guide, I have discussed the three major student visas: F-1, M-1, and J-1.

Moreover, I have discussed which visa allows work, the hidden application costs, the visa application process, and interview tips to avoid rejection. Ensure you read the guide thoroughly to increase your chances of visa approval for the USA.

Ensure you install a reliable eSIM data plan on your device to stay connected upon arrival in the USA.

FAQs

Can I bring my spouse?

Yes, you can bring your spouse on an F-2 dependent visa. Your spouse can apply for a visa using an I-20 form issued by your school. However, to get the approval, you must prove sufficient financial support for both of you.

What happens if my visa expires while I am in the USA?

If your visa has expired, you can remain legally in the USA based on the unexpired Form I-20. A visa is a permit to enter the country, but the I-20 determines your legal stay.

Can I travel to Canada/Mexico?

Yes, you can travel to Canada or Mexico while on a U.S. student visa (F-1 or J-1) on Automatic Visa Revalidation. But you need a valid passport, a signed I-20/DS-2019, and a valid U.S. visa stamp.