What is the F1 Visa and why is it essential?

The F1 visa is the official document that allows international students to study full-time in the United States.
Without it, you can’t enroll in schools, universities, or English programs certified by the U.S. government.

It is issued by the U.S. Department of State for students accepted into SEVP-certified institutions — such as Approach ISC.

The F1 ensures your legal student status and allows you to stay in the U.S. while actively enrolled in classes.

Who can apply for an F1 Visa?

You must:

1. Be accepted by a SEVP-certified school.

2. Enroll in a full-time academic program.

3. Prove financial capacity to cover study and living expenses.

4. Show strong ties to your home country, proving you’ll return after your studies.

At Approach, students receive complete support — from acceptance to visa interview preparation.

How much does the F1 Visa Cost?

Note: These fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.

How long is the F1 Visa valid?

Your visa remains valid as long as you are enrolled full-time at a certified school.
After completing your program, you have a 60-day grace period to leave the country or transfer to another course.

Required documents for the F1 Visa application

• Valid passport

• I-20 form from a SEVP-certified institution (like Approach)

• Proof of SEVIS fee payment

• DS-160 form confirmation

• Financial proof (bank statements or sponsor letter)

• Acceptance letter

• Previous academic records

The Approach team helps students review all documents before their interview to ensure accuracy.

F1 Visa application process: step by step

1. Choose a SEVP-certified school.

2. Receive your I-20 form.

3. Pay the SEVIS fee (I-901).

4. Complete the DS-160 form online.

5. Schedule and attend your U.S. consulate interview.

During your interview, be prepared to explain why you chose your course, how you’ll finance your studies, and what your post-graduation plans are.

Common interview questions

• Why do you want to study in the U.S.?

• Why did you choose this school?

• Who is funding your education?

• What will you do after graduation?

Tip: Stay calm, confident, and truthful. The goal is to show your genuine purpose: studying.

Choosing the right school: why SEVP Accreditation Matters

Only SEVP-certified schools can issue the I-20 form.

Approach International Student Center is officially certified and authorized to issue the I-20, ensuring full compliance for your visa process.

With programs like:

• Advanced Academic Preparation (AAP)

• Business Program (BP)

• ESL Teaching Internship (ESL-TI)

• Test Preparation (TOEFL, GRE, GMAT)

How to prepare for a successful Visa Interview

1. Review your DS-160 answers.

2. Organize your documents neatly.

3. Practice your answers in English.

4. Arrive early at the consulate.

5. Dress confidently and professionally.

F1 Visa FAQs

Can I work on an F1 visa?

Yes, up to 20 hours per week on-campus.
Off-campus work requires authorization (OPT or CPT).

Can I bring my family?

Yes, dependents can apply for F2 visas.

Can I transfer schools?

Yes, as long as both are SEVP-certified and the transfer is approved.

Why Study at Approach ISC with an F1 Visa?

• SEVP-certified institution

• Complete cultural and academic immersion

• Flexible and career-oriented programs

• Full support before, during, and after arrival

At Approach, you don’t just study English — you live it. You build connections, confidence, and your roadmap to success.

Find out which schools are SEVP-certified — start your journey with Approach today. Click here!