F-1 Student Visa
United States · F-1
Study at a SEVP-certified school, admitted for the duration of status (D/S). A final rule of 17 July 2026 replacing D/S with a fixed admission of up to 4 years was enjoined nationwide on 14 September 2026, so D/S continues. Nationals of the full and partial travel-ban countries (Proclamation 10998, from 1 January 2026) cannot currently obtain F visas.
Course enrolment
4 wk - 12 wk
Processing time
typical decision
$535
Government fee
per applicant
4 yrs
Validity
80/100
Popularity
route volume
Eligibility requirements
- Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified school
- Visa application fee USD 185 plus SEVIS I-901 fee USD 350
- Proof of funds for tuition and living costs
- A USD 250 visa integrity fee was enacted in July 2025; collection is not yet uniform
Who this route suits
StudentsGraduates
Document checklist (9)
Core
Professional
Financial
Background
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