The requirements vary by institution and program, but generally, students need:

• A completed application form
• Proof of secondary school completion
• Transcripts from previous institutions
• English language proficiency (often TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native speakers)
• Financial proof of ability to pay tuition and living expenses

Once you receive an acceptance letter and I-20 form from a U.S. institution, you can apply for an F-1 visa. The process includes:

• Paying the SEVIS I-901 fee
• Completing the DS-160 form online
• Paying the visa application fee
• Scheduling and attending a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

Yes, many U.S. institutions offer scholarships to international students based on academic merit, talents, or specific criteria. It’s important to research each school’s scholarship opportunities and apply by the deadlines.

On an F-1 student visa, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during regular semesters. After completing your first academic year, you might be eligible for off-campus employment through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

On an F-1 visa, you’re granted a 60-day grace period after the completion of your studies (or post-study authorized employment, like OPT) to prepare to leave the USA, change your visa status, or transfer to another school.

In the U.S., the terms “college” and “university” are often used interchangeably. However, typically, colleges are smaller institutions focusing on undergraduate education, while universities might offer both undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Most U.S. universities recognize and evaluate international qualifications. However, specific requirements vary by institution. Some may ask for a credentials evaluation by an external agency.

Remember, these are general answers and might not encompass all specifics or changes in regulations. Always refer to official guidelines and individual institution policies for the most accurate information.

OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their academic program. To apply, you must request a recommendation from your Designated School Official (DSO) and file Form I-765 with USCIS.

Yes, students with degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) fields can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving them a total of up to 36 months of OPT in the U.S.

The H1B visa is a work visa allowing U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. It’s different from OPT as it is not restricted to recent graduates and can be extended beyond three years. Each year, there’s a cap on the number of H1B visas issued, and recipients are often selected through a lottery system.

Transitioning to a green card from an F-1 or H1B typically involves employer sponsorship. Your employer can file an I-140 Immigrant Petition on your behalf. Other avenues include family sponsorship or self-petitioning in specific categories like the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver).

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows certain professionals, especially those in the STEM fields, to apply for a green card without employer sponsorship if it’s in the “national interest” of the U.S. Eligibility depends on several factors, including your expertise, work history, and the significance of your contributions to your field.

After the completion of your study program and any authorized period of practical training (like OPT), you have a 60-day grace period to depart the U.S., apply for a change of status, or transfer to another institution.

The most common route is to transition to an H1B visa. Typically, an employer sponsors your H1B petition. Alternatively, visas like the L-1 (for inter-company transfers) or O-1 (for individuals with extraordinary abilities) may be options, depending on your situation.

Yes, but it requires specific steps and can be complex. Common pathways include being sponsored by an employer, family sponsorship, or self-petitioning if you qualify for categories like EB-1A (extraordinary ability) or EB-2 NIW.

Yes, there is an annual cap for H1B visas. Currently, the cap is set at 65,000 for those with a bachelor’s degree and an additional 20,000 for those with a master’s degree or higher from U.S. institutions. However, certain employers, like universities, are exempt from this cap.

The H1B visa is initially valid for three years and can be extended up to a maximum of six years. Under specific conditions, particularly if you’ve started the green card process, you may be able to extend the H1B beyond six years.

While it’s technically possible, the process is complex. F-1 is a non-immigrant intent visa, and applying for a green card can signify immigrant intent, which may jeopardize your F-1 status. It’s essential to navigate this transition carefully, ideally with the guidance of an immigration attorney.

Your H1B visa is tied to the employer who sponsors it, and you’re authorized to work for that specific employer in the role described in the visa petition. If you wish to change jobs, your new employer must file a new H1B petition on your behalf.