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International Student Visas

Student Visa

Overview: Typically, a foreign national wishing to enter the United States must first secure a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residency. To study in the U.S., you must have a student visa. The type of visa you need, either an F visa or an M visa, depends on your course of study and the school you plan to attend.

To enter the United States to attend: You need the following visa category:
University or college F
High School
Private elementary school
Seminary
Conservatory
Another academic institution, including a language training program
Vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program M
One can apply for the international student visa F-1 or M-1 through US Embassies and Consulates around the world. This process is called Consulate processing, or if the person is already in the United States under some other visa category, can apply for the Change of Status to the F-1 or M-1 as an international student through the Department of Homeland Security within the United States.
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