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What are the F-1 visa requirements?

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Before you can study in the U.S., you need to secure an F-1 visa, which is the most common type of visa for international students. But qualifying for an F-1 visa takes more than just getting accepted into a university.

In this article, you’ll learn what the F-1 visa requirements are, how to apply and what to expect during the approval process. Whether you’re planning your interview or figuring out work options like optional practical training, this overview will help you stay on track.

Basic F-1 visa eligibility criteria

To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must meet a specific set of requirements. These aren’t just technical details, they’re how the U.S. government confirms that you’re a genuine student with a serious academic plan.

Here’s what you need to meet the core F-1 visa requirements:

  • Admission to an SEVP-approved U.S. universityYou must be accepted to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) which confirms a university has a legitimate educational program.
  • Full-time enrollmentYour academic program must be full time.
  • Proof of financial supportYou must show that you can pay for your education and living expenses. This can include scholarships, savings or a confirmed F-1 student loan.
  • Valid passport and documentsYour passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
  • Intent to return homeYou must demonstrate that you plan to return to your home country after finishing your program.
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Explore Immigration Tips

Have questions about the visa process? MPOWER's immigration resources are for students like you.

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Key documents and how to apply

Once you’ve been accepted to a university, your school will issue Form I-20. This document is required for the visa application process. From there, you’ll complete your DS-160 U.S. visa application online and schedule a visa interview at your local embassy or consulate.

Be sure to bring the following documents to your interview:

  • A printed I-20 form signed by your school
  • A passport-size photo and valid passport
  • The DS-160 confirmation page
  • Proof of funding to cover your tuition and living expenses
  • Your university admission letter
  • Receipts for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and visa application fees

Use these materials to support your answers during the interview. If you’re not sure what questions to expect, reviewing F1 visa interview preparation resources can help.

Work and academic rules for F-1 students

Once you receive your visa and arrive in the U.S., you’ll need to follow specific rules to maintain your status.

  • Maintain full-time enrollment every semester.
  • Don’t work off campus during your first academic year, unless it’s approved under CPT rules for the F-1 visa.
  • Optional practical training (OPT) is available during or after your degree, but you must apply in advance.
  • Report any address or school changes to your designated school official (DSO).

If you’re interested in working while studying, start by reviewing student visa work restrictions to understand what’s allowed under your visa.

Student smiles at visa approval email with laptop and documents nearby.

How MPOWER Financing helps with F-1 visa success

Meeting all the F-1 visa requirements is only part of the challenge. You also need to prove your financial readiness and long-term potential, and that’s where MPOWER Financing can help.

MPOWER offers no-cosigner student loans for international students at more than 500 schools in the U.S. and Canada. These loans can serve as proof of financial support during your visa process. But that’s just the beginning.

With MPOWER, you also receive:

  • A free visa support letter to include in your application
  • A free visa prep course and access to mock interview
  • Exclusive access to free career prep, job search tools and postgraduation guidance
  • International scholarships for international students
  • Fast, fixed-rate student loan decisions based on your future, not your credit history

Whether you’re applying for your F-1 visa or planning your career, MPOWER provides the support you need to make it happen.

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FAQs

What are the main F-1 visa requirements? 

You must be accepted to a full-time program at a SEVP-certified U.S. university, show proof of financial support for tuition and living expenses and demonstrate intent to return home after studying overseas for your degree. These are the key requirements most students focus on, but the U.S. government has additional eligibility rules and documentation steps. For the complete list, visit the U.S. Department of State’s student visa page or the ICE SEVP site for students.

What is Form DS-160? 

It’s the online visa application form required for all nonimmigrant visas, including the F-1 visa. You must complete it before your interview.

Do I need a loan approval before my visa interview? 

It’s not required, but showing a loan like one from MPOWER Financing can strengthen your financial case with a document showing funds committed for your school and program.

Can I work on an F-1 visa? 

Yes, but with restrictions. On-campus work is allowed up to 20 hours per week, and off-campus work requires CPT or OPT authorization.

What is CPT for F-1 students? 

Curricular practical training allows you to work in a job related to your studies. It must be approved by your school and included on your I-20.

What is optional practical training (OPT)? 

OPT lets F-1 students work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. STEM students may be eligible for a 24-month extension.


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