The Department of State has recently announced significant changes to the Exchange Visitor Skills List. In this important update, a total of 34 countries have been removed from this list, including South Korea, China, India, and Turkey. This change is particularly noteworthy for individuals applying for J-1 exchange visitor visas, as the two-year home country physical presence requirement no longer applies to nations not included in the Skills List.

### **Key Takeaways:**

ℹ️ **Impact on Visa Requirements:**

Individuals from countries no longer on the 2024 Skills List will not be subject to the two-year home country physical presence requirement that might have been previously enforced. This change opens doors for many exchange visitors who had anticipated these restrictions.

ℹ️ **Revised Skills List:**

The updated Exchange Visitor Skills, which went into effect on December 9, 2024, Consular officers will reference the updated Exchange Visitor Skills, which went into effect on December 9, when making preliminary determinations for J-1 visa applicants. Understanding this list is crucial for prospective applicants as it dictates their eligibility and associated obligations for their visa status.

ℹ️ **Other Conditions Still Apply:**

While the removal from the Skills List alleviates the two-year residency requirement for some, other conditions remain in effect. Applicants who have received funding from the U.S. government or their home country's government may still be required to fulfill this two-year stay. Furthermore, participants who have completed graduate medical education or training in the U.S. are also subject to this residency obligation. Therefore, understanding the specifics of one’s situation is paramount.

### **Understanding the Exchange Visitor Skills List**

The Exchange Visitor Skills List is a fundamental component for applicants seeking J-1 visas. This list identifies specific skills and expertise deemed necessary for the development of various countries. Those applicants from nations included on the list were previously required to return home for two years, a rule designed to ensure that knowledge and skills gained in the U.S. could be utilized to benefit their home countries. With the recent removal of several countries from the list, numerous applicants can now pursue opportunities in the U.S. without the burden of this residency requirement.

### **Who Benefits from the Changes?**

The recent changes bring relief to several exchange visitors who would have faced the two-year obligation. This includes individuals from sectors that benefit from international experience, such as academia, healthcare, and technology. The update could potentially attract more applicants from previously restricted countries and therefore enhancing cultural exchange and diversity within the U.S. Furthermore, it supports those in work-and-travel programs, allowing them to take advantage of opportunities without the constraints of mandatory home return.

### **New Opportunities Awaiting J-1 Visa Holders**

The removal of the two-year residency requirement can also lead to new pathways for J-1 visa holders. Now, participants have the opportunity to seek alternative visa statuses or even permanent residency while remaining in the U.S. This flexibility not only encourages personal and professional growth but also allows participants to build valuable connections and experiences that will benefit their careers in the long term.

In addition to seeking permanent residency, J-1 visa holders can also explore options in various sectors without the two-year wait and enhance their professional networks and job prospects. This shift in policy represents a milestone for J-1 visa holders and prospective applicants and paves the way for increased opportunities for international exchange and collaboration.

### **Navigating the J-1 Visa Landscape: What’s Next?**

As these changes take effect, prospective J-1 visa applicants and current holders should stay informed about their options. Resources are available through the U.S. government and consulates to help navigate the complexities of visa applications and compliance with new regulations. Regularly reviewing the Skills List and consulting with immigration advisors, like the attorneys of Grape Law, can provide clarity and guidance in what can be a confusing process.



The J-1 visa's two-year home residency requirement was lifted for more countries. 

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The U.S. Lifts the J-1 Visa's Two-year Home Residency Requirement for More Countries

Many international students pursue higher education in the United States with the hope of finding employment opportunities in the country after graduation. **However, being granted a visa to study does not guarantee a visa to work.** 

After completing their studies, international students may face uncertainty and challenges in securing a job and staying in the US.

Fortunately, **the US offers several options that allow international students to gain work experience and explore career opportunities after graduation.** These options vary depending on the type of visa, degree, and field of study of the student. Some of these options require prior authorization from the US government, while others are more flexible and accessible.

This article explores **five viable options available to [international students](https://www.grapelaw.com/visas/student-and-exchange-visitor-visas) seeking employment in the US after graduation.** It also provides tips for finding a job and the significance of planning ahead for a successful career transition whether you want to work temporarily or permanently in the US.

## Importance of Understanding Visa Requirements for International Students

You’re an international student who wants to have post study work in the US after graduation. But do you know what visas you need and how to get them? 

Each visa option has different rules and steps to follow. You need to learn these rules and steps so you can plan your post-graduation steps and avoid trouble.

Apart from reading this article, think about your own situation and talk to immigration experts to find out the best visa or training option for you.

Let’s get started with the 5 best options to work in the US after graduation.
## 1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

As an international student in the US, you can benefit from **Curricular Practical Training (CPT)**, a work authorization program that lets you work in a job that is related to your field of study.

You can choose to work part-time or full-time, either during the school year or during breaks. But before you can start working, **you need to meet some requirements.** 

- Be enrolled in a US institution for at least one academic year (the first 9 months after you enroll)
- Get approval from the Designated School Official (DSO) who knows your program requirements

CPT is a great way to get hands-on experience and use your academic knowledge in real-world settings. It also helps you build professional networks and get ahead in the job market.
## 2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)
 
As an international student in the US, you can also work in your field of study for a certain time, usually up to 12 months, after finishing your academic program. This is called **Optional Practical Training (OPT)**.

You can do OPT either before (pre-completion OPT) or after (post-completion OPT) graduation.
### Pre-Completion OPT
 
You can **work in your field of study before finishing your degree program** with Pre-completion OPT. You can work part-time during the school year and full-time during breaks.

But you need to meet some requirements to do pre-completion OPT. You need to have completed **at least one academic year of study** and keep your [F-1 student status](https://www.grapelaw.com/library/content/student-visa-options-in-the-us-f1-m1-j1).
### Post-Completion OPT
 
Now Post-completion OPT allows you to **work after completing your degree program**. It is typically full-time and can last for a **maximum of 12 months.** 

But you need to meet some requirements for qualifying for this training. You need to have finished your program of study and apply for the employment authorization document (EAD) from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides international students like you with an opportunity to gain practical hands-on work experience and learn closely about the US job market. It helps you connect your academic study and professional employment, improve your employability and explore potential long-term career opportunities.
## 3. STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT) 

If you are a STEM graduate, you can work for longer in your field of study with STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (STEM OPT). This is **a special extension of the regular OPT program for students** who have completed a degree in a STEM field.

STEM OPT lets you work for an **extra 24 months**, making it a total of 36 months of OPT.

But you need to meet some requirements to do STEM OPT. You need to have a degree in a STEM field and **a job offer from an employer who is part of the E-Verify program**.

You also need to have a formal training plan from your employer that shows how the job will help you achieve your practical training goals.

The STEM OPT extension is very helpful as it gives you more time to work and learn in your field of study. You can get more work experience and possibly find long-term employment opportunities in your chosen field.

STEM OPT also gives you a chance to discover and contribute to the exciting fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

See also [How to Work as a F1 Student](https://www.grapelaw.com/library/content/employment-opportunities-for-f1-students)
## 4. H-1B Visa
 
The [H-1B work visa](https://www.grapelaw.com/visas/employment-visas/h-1-b-visa) program is one of the most sought-out pathways for international students seeking long-term employment in the United States. If you want to work in the US for a longer period, you can apply for the H-1B visa program. This is a **non-immigrant visa category that lets US employers hire foreign workers in specialized occupations.**

Many international students use the H-1B visa as a way to continue working in the US after their OPT period ends. 

**The H-1B visa usually lasts for three years**, and you can extend it for another three years.

But you need to meet some requirements to get the H-1B visa. 

- Be an international student with a job offer from a US employer who is ready to sponsor you
- You have specialized knowledge and skills that are hard to find among US workers

**One challenge with the H-1B visa is the limited number of visas issued each year.** The US government issues 85,000 new H-1B visas each year. Out of these, 65,000 are for employers in the US, and 20,000 are for employers who hire foreign workers with a master’s degree or higher from a US institution. 

This is called the H-1B Cap. Because of this cap, the H-1B visa application process is very competitive, and not all applicants may get approval.
For more information visit [What is H1B Cap and Who Qualifies for Exemption](https://www.grapelaw.com/library/content/understanding-the-h1b-cap-exemptions).
## 5. Employer Sponsorship and Green Card

Another option for a work permit for students in the USA after graduation is [employer sponsorship for Green Card](https://www.grapelaw.com/visas/employment-based/eb-3-green-card). 

This option allows you to stay and work in the US with Green Card, but it also requires a strong commitment from both you and your employer.

To get a permanent residency or international student Green Card through employer sponsorship, you and your employer need to follow a few steps.

- First, your employer needs to file a petition for you, stating that they want to hire you.
- Next, your employer needs to prove that they could not find any qualified US workers for your position.
- Then, you can apply for permanent residency under a specific category, such as employment-based immigration.
 
See also [Employment-Based Green Card](https://www.grapelaw.com/visas/employment-based) options

**Getting a Green Card with employer sponsorship can be challenging and lengthy.** You should consult an immigration attorney who can help you with the process and make sure you meet all the requirements.
## Finding a Job in the US After Graduation

Finding a job in the US after graduation can be a rewarding but challenging goal. **You need to plan ahead and take action during your studies in order to have a clear picture of what to do after graduation.** 

Here are some helpful tips for you to land a great job opportunity:
### Do Some Networking

Building a professional network is crucial for finding job opportunities. **You should attend career fairs, industry events, and join professional associations related to your field of interest.** 

Networking involves connecting with alumni, professors, and professionals physically, or virtually through platforms like LinkedIn. It is a must that you have a professional online presence that helps you actively showcase your profile and portfolio. 

Your successful networking can lead you to desirable job referrals, internships, and valuable insights into the job market.
### Leverage University Career Services

Leverage the career services offered by your university. Almost every career cell of a university provides guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and tips on ways to connect with potential employers.

So **take advantage of workshops, mock interviews, and resources provided by your career cell to enhance your job-securing skills.** 

The career cell can also inform you about recent job fairs and upcoming recruitment events. Always keep a check on the latest updates on their websites, or notice boards.
### Thoroughly Research Companies

**A thorough research on companies that sponsor international employees can lead you to opportunities you might not be even aware of.** So always search for organizations with a history of hiring international graduates and providing visa sponsorship. 

Your focus should be the companies that align with your career goals and values. Explore their websites, company culture, and available job opportunities. 

Tailor your application materials to each shortlisted company so that you can demonstrate your enthusiasm and thus fit for the role.
### Participate in Internships and Co-Op Program
s
Participating in internships and co-op programs during your studies can provide valuable work experience and potentially lead to full-time employment. **Many companies use internships as a pipeline for hiring new graduates.** 

Seek out internships and co-op opportunities that align with your career interests. During the selection process, make a positive impression to increase your chances of being hired. 

You should ideally look out for job opportunities while you are in college. Preparation for great career opportunities after graduation may also involve getting a good GPA, participating in extracurriculars (leadership, skill-building activities), and permitted volunteering.

It might be challenging for you to land a post study work opportunity quickly after graduation, however, if you keep persisting, applying, following up, and improving your skills, no job would be out of your reach. So don’t give up after rejections, or challenges. Always remember why you started and why you came to the US, that is, to fulfill your American Dream. 
## Professional and Experienced Help - Grape Law

As an international student studying in the US, you have many choices for finding work opportunities after graduation.

The Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs enable you to gain practical work experience during or after your studies. If you’re a student in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field, then the STEM OPT extension can give you more time to work in the US. Moreover, the H-1B visa allows you to work for a longer term, while employer sponsorship for permanent residency lets you pursue a career in the US permanently.

By exploring these options, and planning ahead, you can maximize your opportunities for employment in the US after graduation and embark on a rewarding professional journey. [Send a message](https://www.grapelaw.com/contact) or [schedule a video call](https://calendly.com/grapelaw) today for your next step in the US.


Finding work opportunities in the US after graduation can be challenging for international students. In this article you can discover 5 options.

employment after graduation for students in america

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Employment After Graduation for International Students in the US

When you finally make it into your dream program, one of the questions will be, “how you can work as a student in the US?”   

International students have some conditions and restrictions for working on and off campus. As always, individual cases and visa types are significant to have a work permit as a student.  

In this article, we will discuss the F-1 non-immigrant student visa. In addition, we will give you **the details of the work permits you will have while holding an F-1 visa.**   

Check out other student visa opportunities by reading our article "[Student Visa Options in the US: F1, M1, J1](https://www.grapelaw.com/library/content/student-visa-options-in-the-us-f1-m1-j1)"  
 
## What is an F-1 visa?
    
When you decide to come to the US to study, there are several types of visas: F-1, M-1, and J-1. Each of them has different conditions and rules for visa holders. For example, while an F-1 visa is for academic purposes, an M-1 visa is for students traveling to the US for vocational studies. Lastly, a J-1 visa is for exchange students and lecturers.  

An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa granted to people who want to study in the USA. It is the most popular visa option for full-time students. Besides, F-1 visa holders have the opportunity to bring their immediate family with them to the US. This means that the candidate's spouse and children (unmarried and under 21 years old) can apply for an F-2 visa which allows them to travel with the F1 visa holder.  

## How to apply for an F-1 Visa?
   
The F-1 visa application process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It is a significant step towards achieving your academic and career goals. After all, studying in the United States is an exhilarating opportunity. However, the process can also be overwhelming, as it involves a lot of paperwork, fees, and a visa interview that can feel stressful.   

Many students may feel anxious about whether their visa application will be approved, especially if they are leaving behind their home country and loved ones. But, with careful preparation and guidance, most students can successfully navigate the process and start their academic journey in the United States.  

Here is a brief list of the application requirements for the F-1 visa:  

- The applicant must prove they can cover their educational and living expenses during their studies.   
- The applicant must prove that they will return to their home country after completing their studies and that they have strong social and economic ties in their home country.     
- The applicant must have an acceptance letter and Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status) from an educational institution in the USA.   
  
## F-1 Visa and Work Opportunities
  
Students who come to the US on an F-1 visa have the opportunity to work under certain conditions. However, as for their immediate families, F-2 visa holders are not allowed to work.   

F-1 students are allowed to work in the United States, but only under certain conditions and in accordance with complex guidelines and restrictions issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).    

Areas that F-1 students can work are as follows:  

- On-campus employment     
- Off-campus employment
    - Working Due to Economic Difficulties    
    - OPT (optional practical training)     
    - CPT (practical training within the curriculum)    
    - STEM OPT
   
***Form I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status:** [Form I-20](https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/prepare/students-and-the-form-i-20) is the most important document prepared by the school for students studying at an educational institution in the USA and is the essential document of the visa process and your residence in the USA afterward. For the form to be prepared, you must show that you can afford the school's educational expenses. Therefore, the form is a document that proves your education and financial status in the US.    

## What is On-Campus Employment?
    
USCIS places few conditions on on-campus employment for students with F-1 visas, allowing them to work according to the opportunities their universities offer. However, although F-1 status includes on-campus employment privilege, on-campus job opportunities are minimal at most schools.     

Unlike the general requirements, you must not complete and certify Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to work on campus. During the school year, you can work up to 20 hours per week on campus, while during break periods, your work authorization can be up to 40 hours per week.     

Even if you find a job on campus, you may need more than the wages you earn to cover your financial needs. In addition, many schools require you to obtain permission from the International Student Office before accepting any work on campus. Sometimes, the school may not allow students to work on campus during their first semester or year.    

Since your situation is always dependent on the support of your school, you should seek guidance and permission from your International Student Office before applying for or accepting any work and request their comments on any ambiguous situation. You will also need advice from your school to ensure that you have reported all the appropriate forms to USCIS and obtained your necessary approvals.     

Finally, not every job physically located on campus may be considered "on-campus employment." For example, even if a construction company continues to operate on campus, it is unlikely that the job you might find there would be considered "on-campus employment." 

Here are questions that can help you with this:    

- Is the position located on the campus of your home university (the campus in the city where the I-20 is registered)?    
- Do you receive your salary from your home university?    
- Does the employment provide direct services to your home university?    
- Is the work a contract-funded research project at the graduate level?
    
**If you answered yes** to the above questions, your job is considered to be located on campus.    

If your answers to the above questions have made you concerned that your work is not on campus, you should apply for the appropriate off-campus authorization for your visa type.   

## What is Off-Campus Employment?
    
Off-campus employment is any employment that is not on the USC campus. It is possible to find off-campus work while you are a student, but it can be difficult and time-consuming. 

There are a few different types of employment authorization available to F-1 students for off-campus employment: **CPT (Curricular Practical Training), OPT (Optional Practical Training), and STEM OPT**. 

## Working Due to Economic Difficulties
    
When issuing the F-1 visa, USCIS assumes that you will be able to meet your financial needs and will not need off-campus work authorization. However, you may be granted permission to work off-campus if you can prove that you are experiencing economic hardship due to emergencies, such as unforeseen events after you enrolled in college (the unpredictable exchange rate in your country), health problems, or family issues.     

Your challenging economic circumstances, the loss of your on-campus job, and your need for financial support qualify for an exception to allow students in F-1 status to work off-campus.     

At least one year of study as a student and good grades play a crucial role in applying for off-campus employment. You can apply for work authorization at USCIS by completing form I-765. Even if USCIS approves your off-campus employment, it will still be limited to 20 hours per week. Your field of employment does not need to be related to your field of study.     

### CPT (Curricular Practical Training)
    
Another job you can do with your F-1 visa is curricular practical training or CPT. Unlike on-campus employment, CPT does not have a 20-hour limit. However, it has to be work related to your field of study. The purpose of CPT is to give you supervision about your field of study. This is why you can also find off-campus employment.     

You do not have to complete and submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to apply for CPT. 
However, you should receive a CPT authorization letter from your school. This document must show that the internship or work you will be doing is within the curriculum. Your school needs to submit this CPT authorization so that SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) is aware of the student's activities and can maintain the F-1 visa status.     

### OPT (Optional Practical Training)
    
Another opportunity for off-campus employment is optional practical training (OPT). This program is the right to work in the field in which the student is studying. Students who have completed at least nine months of their degree (undergraduate, graduate, etc.) are entitled to 12 months of OPT during and after their studies. However, a student who has completed the CPT program cannot apply for the OPT program.     

For example, a student who completes a 12-month full-time CPT program at the undergraduate level cannot apply for OPT. Likewise, a student who participated in an OPT program for a bachelor's degree can only apply for OPT if they enroll in a bachelor's program for a second time. However, when they finish their bachelor's degree and start a master's degree, they can apply for OPT again. Unlike the CPT program, when you apply for OPT, you must complete Form I-765 and have it approved by USCIS.     

### STEM OPT
    
Students with F-1 visa status who have completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in government-designated STEM fields may apply to USCIS for an extension of the OPT program for up to 24 months if they have a job or job offer.     

The earliest you can apply to extend your visa is 90 days before your OPT program ends. USCIS will consider your application for an OPT extension before the OPT program you are currently on ends.     

To submit your application, complete the "Request for STEM OPT recommendation I-20" form online. Then you will need to submit your most recent I-94, your EAD, a hand-completed and signed Form I-983, and your most recent I-20. You must obtain a new I-20 from your school in the next step.     

You can file your application with USCIS online or by mail. For more information, please [visit the official page of USCIS.](https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-extension-for-stem-students-stem-opt)  

## Simplify Your Life in America with Grape Law
    
As a student in a new country, it will be essential for you to gain economic needs and work experience simultaneously. However, deciding how to proceed with your rights and visa requirements can take time and effort. At Grape Law, we are here to help you with your visa application and your new life possibilities. [Contact us](https://www.grapelaw.com/contact) via info@grapelaw.com or [schedule a face-to-face consultation](https://calendly.com/grapelaw) on our website!    
  
 

When you finally make it into your dream program, one of the questions will be, “how you can work as a student in the US?”International students have some conditions and restrictions for working on and off campus. As always, individual cases and visa types are significant to have a work permit as a student.

employment-oppurtunities-for-f1-student.webp

Employment Opportunities for F-1 Students | Grape Law

Studying in the U.S. and pursuing a quality education at top-tier U.S. schools with F-1 visas is a dream for thousands of students all around the world. Attending U.S. colleges offers you a quality education and often leads to a long-lasting stay in America. The journey started as a student could continue with post-graduation non-immigrant employment visas, green card options, and eventually naturalization!  

However, applying for an F-1 Student Visa can be exhausting and confusing. The student immigration process entails ensuring a U.S. visa and pre-requiring that applicants must be accepted into a qualifying school. This piece aims to make the application for an F-1 visa clear by explaining every step you will need to take throughout the process after being accepted into a U.S. institution!   

<div style="background: #0C7D93; padding: 5px; color : white; font-size:large; ">F-1 Student Visa is for academic studies, language-training programs, or vocational programs. There are also other types of visas such as M-1 and J-1 which are issued for students or exchange visitors.</div>  

If you are not familiar with U.S. student visas, you may find our blog writing called [Student Visa Options](https://www.grapelaw.com/library/content/student-visa-options-in-the-us-f1-m1-j1) in the U.S. helpful!

## F-1 Visa Eligibility Rules
  
### Being Accepted into SEVP-Approved Schools

To be eligible for an F-1 visa, you must be accepted as a full-time student at the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools. There are many accredited schools by SEVP, including colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, etc. To learn whether the school(s) you plan to apply to is/are SEVP-certified, you can use this school search engine prepared by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).   

### Enrollment as a Full-Time Student at an Institution 

After enrolling at a SEVP-certified school, you will become a full-time student. You are going to be listed in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). It is an online system that oversees the status and manages the students' inquiries. Admission into SEVIS comes with a fee. I-901 SEVIS fee is designed to fund Student and Exchange Visitors Program. It is not included in visa fees and school [SEVIS admission fee](https://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901)s. The price is currently $350. After paying the fee for the I-901, your school will issue you the essential student immigration document called Form I-20. On this form, your school notes which type of visa you can obtain for your studies. This document is significant through your studies in the U.S. because it is the proof of your status as an international student in the U.S. 

### English Proficiency   

English is the primary language of the U.S. institutions. As part of the admission process, majority of SEVP-Approved schools requires to submit an English proficiency document. For example, IELTS or TOEFL scores are mandatory for the application because you should prove that you are able to attend and follow the classes in English language. As SEVP-Approved Schools acceptance is the first step to apply for F-1 Student Visa, the English language proficiency is one of the eligibility rules for the application. 
However, if you are applying for language-training programs, you are not required to submit evidence of English proficiency. 

### Proof of financial support funds

For your F-1 Student Visa, you must prove that you have adequate funding to cover your tuition fees and cost of livings in the U.S. In order to pursue your full-time education without working is essential for the visa application. Therefore, you must have enough money and the documents to prove it.  

### Strong Ties with Home-Country 

F-1 Student Visa is a non-immigrant visa. When you apply for a visa, it is crucial to prove that you are planning to return to your country after you complete your studies. Therefore, you must provide the necessary documents to prove your strong ties with your home country. Financial documents and strong relations with family and friends are some examples to prove your intent to return to your country.   

## Getting Started with the Online Application
  
Now that you are eligible for an F-1 visa, you can start your online application process. To initiate the process, you must fill in and submit an online DS-160 Form (Nonimmigrant Visa Application). The DS-160 Form is for temporary travel to the United States. The information you fill in on this form is used by the consular officer to use in your visa application process and personal interview. Furthermore, you are asked to provide certain personal information and a detailed background history. After you complete and submit Form DS-160, you will schedule an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy of your home country.   

In order to access the online DS-160 Form, follow [this link.](https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/)

## Prepare for Your Interview
  
Before coming to your visa interview, you need to make several documents ready to bring with you, and they are as follows:   

- The confirmation page of your DS-160 online application.   
- A good photograph of yourself was taken according to the photo requirements.   
- Form I-20 issued by your school. 
- A passport valid for at least six months following your entry into the U.S.
- DS-160 application fee payment receipt.
   
You should also have evidence of the following: 

- Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended. 
- Standardized test scores required by your U.S. school. 
- Proof of ties to your home country, as well as proof of funds to support you and pay for your studies while you are in the United States. 
 
## GRAPE LAW IS HERE TO EASE YOUR BURDEN DURING THE VISA PROCESS 

Studying in the U.S. is not a farfetched dream. Whether you are an elementary-level, high school, or college student, you can be eligible for an F-1 visa if you are accepted into SEVP-certified schools. Furthermore, as your school will act as your sponsor and facilitate your immigration, the likelihood that you will be issued a visa is very high!    

You have come a long way to achieving your dreams by receiving an acceptance letter from a U.S. university. Yet, the visa application process can be tedious and confusing for you. We understand this and believe that our experienced and cutting-edge attorneys can help you achieve your dreams faster by offering the best client service.    

Please feel free to [contact us](https://www.grapelaw.com/contact), and we are looking forward to hearing from you!  

The student immigration process entails ensuring a U.S. visa and pre-requiring that applicants must be accepted into a qualifying school. This piece aims to make the application for an F-1 visa clear by explaining every step you will need to take throughout the process after being accepted into a U.S. institution!

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How to Apply for F1 Student Visa?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made an important revision on the policy that required individuals who applied for a change of status to F-1 students to apply to change or extend their current nonimmigrant status.

With this change, <span style="color: #FF504B;">individuals applying for a change to F-1 student will be granted an F-1 status effective immediately following the approval of an applicant’s Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status).</span> This will save both USCIS and applicants time, effort, and money which was spent on multiple applications to change or extend their nonimmigrant status.

Previously, USCIS required applicants to maintain a nonimmigrant status up to 30 days before their student programs’ start date to avoid gaps in the status. Now, change to F-1 student **will be possible to grant before the 30 days period begins, enabling students to avoid the same gaps without applications to change or extend their current nonimmigrant status.**

**However**, USCIS expects applicants who are transitioned to F-1 students before the beginning of 30 days period to not violate their F-1 status by indulging in any employment, including on-campus opportunities.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) revised the policy that required individuals who applied for change of status to F-1 students to apply to change or extend their current nonimmigrant status.

F1 Student No Longer Need to Submit Subsequent Application 

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F-1 Student No Longer Need to Submit Subsequent Applications to "Bridge the Gap"

Studying in the U.S. is an amazing opportunity for students from all over the world. With many renowned institutions that lead the world in higher education, U.S. offers various prospective academics or sector professionals the necessary background to advance in their journeys to achieve career goals. On the other hand, before anything you need to prepare to start studying, you must obtain a student visa to begin building your future in the U.S. And first, you should know what exactly a student visa is, which type of student visa you should apply, and how to apply it. Being able to answer these questions will be essential for you to have the correct student visa.  

## What is a Student Visa?

The student visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa issued to prospective students aiming to come and study in the U.S. The length of your visa depends on the time needed to complete your student program, course of study, or work assignment. There are three student visas that you can apply for depending on your course of study and the type of institution that you aspire to study at. Three student visas are F, M, and J, and we will explore each visa in-depth below.  

## What is F1 Visa?

F1 visa is the most common nonimmigrant student visa issued to thousands of students and researchers each year. It is specifically for academic purposes. There is no cap on F1 visa issuance, making it available for everyone who is qualified. Furthermore, an F1 visa requires your proposed study program to eventually awards you a degree, diploma, or certificate. And do not worry, an F1 visa is valid as long as your study in the U.S. continues, and you can ask for an extension if necessary for your work.  

### Who Can Apply for F1 Visa? Which Institutions You Can Apply to?

If you are accepted into an accredited U.S school and will study as a full-time student, you are good to apply! You may apply to colleges, universities, conservatories, seminaries, language training institutions, high schools, and elementary schools.  

However, public elementary schools and adult educational programs (such as foreign language classes) are not among the schools you can apply to get your F-1 visa. Public high schools are not affected by this rule. However, an F-1 visa for high school candidates can be valid for up to 12 months, and it is required that you show proof of your payment made for a whole educational year. If you are applying for a private elementary or high school, you should not worry about these nuances at all!  

## What is M1 Visa?

M1 visa is a specific student visa for pupils seeking vocational studies in the U.S. This is different from the F1 visa in that it is designed for ‘non-academic’ studies. Your visa is valid for up to a year, but it can be extended to 3 years depending on your course of study. 

### Who Can Apply for M1 Visa? Which Institutions You Can Apply to?

If you are fluent in English, have funds that can afford your stay, and reside outside of the US, you are qualified to apply! Institutions to which you can apply are many and include schools like business, flight, cooking, cosmetology, and various others that offer different vocational training. Language training programs are not included in schools viable to apply. And to be eligible for an M1 visa, the school or schools you plan to apply to must be recognized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

## What is J1 Visa?

J1 visa is a nonimmigrant, exchange-based visa issued to people who seek to teach, lecture, study, conduct research, receive training, etc. to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the U.S. and other countries. There are various public and private entities that the U.S. acknowledges as sponsors. These sponsors, like Fulbright Commission, facilitate the exchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in fields like arts & science, and education with the U.S. Sponsors also act as your visa sponsors and manage your visa issuance process.  

### Who Can Apply for J1 Visa? Which Institutions You Can Apply to?

There are many individual categories under which many people can apply for a J1 visa. As J1 aspires for the growth of the international relationship between the U.S. and other countries, most categories do concern education. Some acknowledged categories are as follows: 

- Students
- Teachers
- Professors or scholars 
- Research assistants 
- Trainees
- Specialists 
- Au Pairs
- Camp counselors

A student visa might be the beginning of your journey that will last a lifelong. It is for idealist, adventurous, and ambitious people that look for growth, progress, and achievement. Fortunately, student visas are limitless. 
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Whether it be F1, M1, or J1, every year thousands of students, researchers, scholars and so many other people from different professions are issued a student visa. **We believe that if you are qualified to apply and passionate enough to come to the U.S. and make a difference, you will be awarded your desired student visa!**





As studying in the U.S. is a dream come true for so many people around the world, it is difficult to find out which type of visa you should apply for your studies. In this piece, we will explain F1, M1, and J1 student visas. 

Student Visa Options in the US: F1, M1, J1

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Öğrenci Vizeleri ve Ziyaretçi Değişim Programı

Student and Exchange Visitor Visas

We offer investors, innovators, and employees streamlined U.S. immigration and enable start-ups, small & mid-sized businesses, and companies to expand to the U.S.

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Deneyimli avukat ekibimizin rehberliği hukuki ihtiyaçlarınız boyunca hizmetinizde. HAKKIMIZDA ÇALIŞMA ALANLARI Göçmenlik Hukuku Firmamızla; ticari göç, istihdam göçü, aile ve öğrenci göçü vb. birçok göçmenlik hukuku alanlarındaki uzmanlığımızı kullanarak farklı göçmenlik motivasyonlarına sahip müvekkillere hizmet etmeyi hedefliyoruz. Detaylar Ticaret Hukuku Sürekli değişmekte olan ticaret şartları ve yönetimi uzmanlığımızı, nihai sonuca ulaşmayı hedefleyen titiz müvekkil hizmetimizle

Student and Exchange Visitor Visas

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The U.S. Lifts the J-1 Visa's Two-year Home Residency Requirement for More Countries