What’s the difference between an F-1 visa to an M-1 visa?

What’s the difference between an F-1 visa to an M-1 visa? According to U.S. rules, F and M visas are for persons who wish to study in the U.S. The “F” visa is for academic studies, and the “M” visa is for nonacademic or vocational studies.

Before applying for an F or M visa, students must first apply to and be accepted by a SEVP-approved school. Once accepted by the U.S. school they intend to attend, students will be enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee, at least three business days before the consular interview.

The U.S. school must provide them with information about this fee and will issue Forms I-20 for the principal applicant and family members to present to the consular officer at the visa interview. Each family member must obtain individual Form I-20s and follow the visa application procedures, but they do not pay the SEVIS fee.

What’s the difference between an F-1 visa to an M-1 visa?

Students under F or M visas are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program. Keep in mind that the spouse and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) who intend to reside with the principal applicant during the course of study may apply for F-2 or M-2 visas.

The principal applicant needs to prove the financial ability to sustain the dependents. Although SEVIS fee payment is not required, the school must issue them an individual Form I-20, which is required to apply for their visas. Minor children are permitted to attend school in the United States while accompanying the principal applicant.

For application follow the steps below:

• Complete the DS-160 online application;
• Create an account on this website: https://usvisa-info.com;
• Pay the non-refundable MRV fee online;
• Schedule an interview appointment with a consular office.
• Attend your interview appointment and bring all pertinent documentation:
• Confirmation page of form DS-160;
• Valid passport;
• One passport size photo for each visa applicant, including infants;
• Form I- 20 issued from the school, duly completed, dated and signed;
• SEVIS payment receipt;
• Financial documentation that demonstrates the economic means to finance the entire course of study and stay in the U.S.;
• Documentation that demonstrates social and family ties to the original country;

If approved, the visa is issued within a week. The passport will be then returned according to the option you select through your account online;

If the visa is denied, your passport will be returned to you at the conclusion of the interview, along with a letter explaining the reasons for the visa refusal.

What is an F or M student visa?

A student visa (F or M) is required to study in the United States. Foreign nationals may not study after entering on a visitor (B) visa or through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), except to undertake recreational study (non-credit) as part of a tourist visit.

To learn more about immigration services read our blog, contact us to get more information about U.S. Visa and other topics. Wizard Visa offers the best service to help you become a US citizen!

Take advantage of our experience and let our team help you make your dream come true! Contact Us! We will help you plan for your future.