Student Visa Categories
Residents of other countries who wish to study in the United States may be able to do so with a student visa. There are three different categories of student visa, each of which is applicable to a different type of academic institution or program. Prospective students should thoroughly research potential schools to ensure they have been approved to accept foreign students.
Types of Student Visas
If a student wishes to study in the United States, he or she usually must apply to and be accepted to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) before applying for a student visa. The categories of student visas in the United States include:
- J-1: For students involved in an Exchange Visitor Program
- F-1: For students attending an SEVP-certified public high school, K-12 private school, academic post-secondary school, or English language school
- M-1: For students attending a SEVP-certified vocational or technical school
Those who are traveling to the United States to attend an academic seminar or conference must apply for a student visa. If a visitor to the U.S. whose primary purpose is tourism wishes to take a short recreational course of less than 18 hours each week, they may be able to do so with a visitor B visa. However, if the course is more than 18 hours per week, the tourist will need to apply for a student visa.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is facing difficulties obtaining or renewing a student visa, the Austin student visa lawyers at the Law Office of William Jang, PLLC, have the knowledge and experience you need to help you through your legal issues. To speak with an attorney, contact our offices at 512-323-2333.