What is F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the United States for the primary purpose of pursuing full-time academic studies at accredited educational institutions. It allows holders to stay for the duration of their academic program, and possibly engage in practical training duing studies and after completion of studies through Curricular Practical Training and Optional Practical Training. It's crucial for F-1 visa holders to adhere to the regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of State to maintain their legal status.

Purpose of the F-1 Visa:

The F-1 visa is specifically designed for individuals who wish to come to the United States to engage in ACADEMIC STUDY. When the U.S. Department of State issues an F-1 visa, it signifies that the individual is approved to study in the U.S. under certain conditions. This visa is not intended for any other purposes.

Actions Supporting the Purpose:

F-1 visa holders should not take any actions that detract from their primary purpose of studying in the United States. This means focusing on academic pursuits and refraining from activities that could jeopardize their status, such as working without proper authorization or failing to maintain a full course load.

What is F-1 Visa Status

The F-1 visa status is granted to individuals who are enrolled as full-time students in the United States at accredited academic institutions. F1 Visa and F1 Status are different. A Visa is a entry ducument which will allow foreign nationals into the United States. Once you’ve entered the United States with a valid visa, you’re given a ‘status’. This is your legal identity in the U.S. during your stay. It outlines your rights, obligations, and the purpose for which you’re allowed to be in the USA. You must follow all the F-1 regulations to maintain active F-1 status.

Please talk to your DSO or International Student Advisor if you have any questions about F-1 status.

Maintaining Status:

To maintain F-1 student status, individuals must fulfill the requirements outlined by the Department of State, which include:

Enrolling in a full-time academic program: F-1 students are typically required to maintain full-time enrollment, which means carrying a certain number of credit hours per semester as defined by their institution. At UofM 9 credits for graduate programs and 12 credit hours for undergraduate programs are considered full-time course load and only 1 course or 3 credit hours are allowed to take online per semester, rest of them should be in person.

Following regulations: F-1 students must comply with all immigration regulations, such as reporting any changes in their academic program or address to the designated school official (DSO) and refraining from engaging in unauthorized employment.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Failure to maintain F-1 student status can have serious consequences, including termination of status, deportation, and future difficulties obtaining visas or re-entering the United States.