F-1 Student Visa — Myths v. Facts

For many people, the chance to study in the U.S is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Although the F-1 student visa is a stepping stone to countless opportunities, the process of obtaining one is often perceived as daunting. However, correcting these misguided beliefs and unraveling some myths can set one up for success in their pursuits.

MYTHS FACTS • One has to apply for and obtain the student visa before entering the US to pursue education.

• One can enter the US on any visa – even B1/B2 tourist visa and upon enrolling in a school, change your status to F-1 visa.

• One has to enroll in a university and pay hefty fees to get an F-1 visa.

• One can apply and be accepted into a course of study at any SEVP-approved school, including high schools, seminaries, private elementary schools, conservatories or even an English learning center.

• F-1 visa allows free employment opportunities in the US. • On-campus employment is permited but, limited to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. For those seeking off-campus work, OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training) are valuable options.

• Only wealthy students can afford an F-1 visa.

• If your sole purpose is to stay in the US legally, there are multiple institutions like the Illinois Institute of Fine Arts in Chicago (iifa.edu) that offers classes like business and marketing for as litle as $6500 for an academic year. On-campus employment can also help offset living expenses and provide valuable work experience.

• F-1 visa is only for specific fields of study, such as STEM.

• F-1 visa covers a wide array of fields from arts and humanities to business and culinary.

• F-1 visa holders must leave the US immediately upon completing their studies

. • F-1 visa is unique in that it does not have an end date. It is generally issued for the Duration of Study which means, one can quite literally live in the US for the rest of their lives so long as they continue to enroll at any SEVP approved school and pursue a full course of study.

• F-1 visa cannot be converted to permanent residency (Green Card).

• Even though the F-1 visa does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency, the five most common ways to turn an F-1 visa into a Green Card are:

1. Self-petitioning as a person of extraordinary ability

2. Receiving employer sponsorship

3. Adjusting status to a dual-intent visa

4. Becoming an investor

5. Marrying a US citizen or green card holder.

One can also enter into military service, win the diversity visa lotery or receive sponsorship through a parent of child.

Misguided beliefs about the F-1 Visa process can lead to unnecessary delays and even rejections. By addressing these misconceptions, you can approach the application process with more confidence and clarity. Our aim here is to clear the fog and guide you through this crucial stage of your educational adventure.
Gita Avantsa
Chief Immigration Counsel
800 E. Northwest Hwy, Suite 205, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
Tel: (847) 449 8660
Email: info@usimmigrationgroup.org