Path to staying
- Study12 months, renewable
- Post-study workup to 6 months
Overview
- Country
- United States
- Visa name
- M-1 Student Visa
- Status
- Active
- Duration
- 12 months
- Max duration
- 36 months
- Renewable
- Yes
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.
Tuition and costs
- Tuition policy
- Full fee
- Tuition range
- $5,000 – $40,000/year
- Funds type
- Bank statement
Vocational program costs vary widely: flight school $30,000–$80,000 total, cosmetology $5,000–$20,000, technical training $8,000–$25,000/yr.
Work rights during study
- Work allowed
- No
- Permission
- Not allowed
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.
Post-study work options
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-1 Practical Training | Training | 6 mo | Any | No | No |
Language requirements
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | Admission | English | 61 | Score varies by institution. Many vocational schools have lower requirements than universities. |
Fees and costs
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | Registration | $350 | One time |
| DS-160 Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee) | Application | $185 | One time |
Dependents and family
- Dependents
- Allowed
- Restriction
- Spouse and unmarried children under 21. M-2 dependents cannot work and can only study part-time at avocational or recreational level.
- Spouse work
- Not allowed
- Conditions
- M-2 visa holders cannot accept any employment in the United States.
How to apply
- Method
- Online
- Processing
- 14-60 days
- Interview
- Required
- Official site
- travel.state.gov
- Health insurance
- Not required
Notes and caveats
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.
Also in United States
Last verified Mar 21, 2026 Source