General Student Questions

What should I do if my F1 visa status is violated?

Contact your DSO immediately. Discuss with your DSO whether you are eligible for reinstatement.

Am I qualified for reinstatement?

File for Reinstatement (If Eligible): Prepare the Application: Complete the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to apply for reinstatement.

What happens if my student visa stamp expires while I'm in the U.S.?

The visa itself is only for entry into the U.S. Your status is maintained by the I-20 and duration of status (D/S) noted on the I-94. If you need to travel outside the U.S. and your visa has expired, you must renew it to re-enter.

Can I work while on an F1 visa?

F1 visa holders can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during breaks. Under certain circumstances, a student can apply for off-campus employment with USCIS approval.

As an F1 visa holder, when should I leave the U.S. after completing my education?

F-1 visa holders have a 60-day grace period after completing their program of study or authorized Post-Completion OPT. During this time, you can leave the U.S., apply for a change of status, transfer to another school, or apply for Post-Completion OPT.  However, if your education is terminated by the school or if you fail to complete your program, yo

Can US Citizen or green card holder sponsor my education, and can I apply for a student loan as a F1 visa holder?

You may be able to apply for private student loans from U.S. financial institutions. However, these often require a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with good credit. The terms and availability of private loans can vary, so it's important to research and compare different lenders. Please note that you are not eligible for federal student loans. On the oth

What should I do if I need to take a leave of absence from school?

Inform the international student office at your institution about your intention to take a leave of absence. They will provide guidance on the process and implications for your visa status. This may involve submitting a formal request and providing reasons for your leave. For F-1 visa holders in the U.S., ensure your I-20 form is updated to reflect your leave of absence. Keep this document vali

When can I file a change of status from F1 to Investor visa? If yes, when can I change my visa status to investor visa?

You can apply for a change of status from an F-1 visa to an investor visa (such as an E-1/E-2 visa) if you meet the eligibility requirements for the investor visa. It is advisable to file for a change of status before your F-1 status expires. If your F-1 status expires, you may be considered out of status, which can complicate your application and may require you to leave the U.S. t

What is the grace period for F1 visa status holders? When does it start?

F-1 visa students have a 60-day grace period after completing their academic program or Optional Practical Training (OPT) during which they can remain in the U.S. The grace period begins under two conditions:  After complet

I was recently denied a F1 visa interview at the US Embassy, what is my best option?

Common reasons for denial are insufficient financial support, lack of strong ties to your home country, incomplete documentation, or failure to demonstrate intent to return home after your studies.Initially, conduct with your school’s Designated School Official (‘DSO”). Then, prepare a stronger application and address the specific reasons cited in your denial. For exampl