Non-immigrant visa for international students pursuing vocational or non-academic studies at SEVP-approved institutions in the United States. Covers technical training, flight schools, cosmetology, culinary programs, mechanical studies, and other career-focused courses.
Vocational program costs vary widely: flight school $30,000–$80,000 total, cosmetology $5,000–$20,000, technical training $8,000–$25,000/yr.
M-1 students cannot work during their studies. No on-campus or off-campus employment is permitted. Only post-completion practical training is available after finishing the program.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min Degree | Work | PR Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-1 Practical Training | Training | 6mo | Any | No | No |
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min Score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | Admission | English | 61 | Score varies by institution. Many vocational schools have lower requirements than universities. |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | Registration | $350 | One time |
| DS-160 Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee) | Application | $185 | One time |
M-1 students cannot change to F-1 or H-1B status. Much more restrictive than F-1 visa. Program must be vocational/non-academic in nature. Students should be clear on the distinction before applying.
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Last verified: Mar 21, 2026. Source