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The primary non-immigrant student visa for international students enrolled in academic programs at SEVP-certified US institutions, including universities, colleges, seminaries, conservatories, and high schools. Covers degree programs and language training programs.
There is no national tuition schedule: costs and financial aid vary by institution, program and location. International students should use the chosen institution's current published cost of attendance; no representative national USD range is recorded.
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during annual vacation when eligible. Off-campus work requires the relevant authorization, including CPT endorsed by the DSO, OPT approved by USCIS, or authorization for a qualifying hardship or international-organization category. Unauthorized employment can violate status.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPT (Optional Practical Training) | Work permit | 12 mo | Any | Unrestricted | No |
| STEM OPT Extension | Work permit | 24 mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | No |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | Registration | $350 | One time |
| DS-160 Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee) | Application | $185 | One time |
| Visa Integrity Fee | Government | One time |
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond period of stay. Must demonstrate intent to return home. Since October 1, 2025, nonimmigrant applicants generally require an in-person interview; F-1 applicants are not among the listed general waiver categories, though a consular officer may make case-specific decisions. Student applicants are also subject to online-presence review. Visa validity and any reciprocity issuance fee depend on nationality.
Last verified Oct 9, 2026 Last changed Oct 9, 2026 Source
added the statutory Visa Integrity Fee with unknown amount pending official collection guidance (https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?_sp=d02fae51-85f5-45de-a4ba-d141be2742fb&edition=prelim&num=0&req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title8-section1806).
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