Frequently Asked Questions
When Do I need To Apply For My Visa?
Students are encouraged to apply for their visa early to provide ample time for visa processing. Remember, it could take several weeks to get your credentials evaluated and get an official acceptance from the college.
Students may enter the US up to 30 days prior to the official start date of their course. If the student wishes to enter the US sooner than 30 days prior to the start of their course, they are required to apply for a B-2 visa instead with the notation that the purpose of the visa is to ultimately attend college. June, July and August are the busiest months so it’s always a good idea to get your application in early.
How Long Can I Stay In The USA ?
You are allowed to stay in the USA for as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student and making normal progress. Thus, if your course lasts three years then you will be granted a three-year visa.
Also, you may (subject to DSO and immigration approval) be allowed to stay in the USA after your course ends for a further 12 months to pursue practical training. Again, if your employer offered you suitable employment that would qualify for a work permit (for example, a H-1B), then you may be able to switch from the F-1 to the appropriate employment status without having to leave the USA .
Can I Extend My Stay To Complete My Studies?
You do not need to apply to extend your stay in the USA while attending college. However, if you need an extension because you were unable to complete your course within the normal time period due to compelling academic or medical reasons then your DSO will complete an I-538. This must be submitted within 30 days of the normal course completion time as stated on your original I-20 A-B.
Can I Work While I’m A Student?
Once you have completed your first academic year as a student you may be allowed to work on or off-campus, subject to DSO approval. This official can tell you if you are eligible to work and with regards to jobs on-campus may give you a list of available jobs. Family members accompanying the student may not work.
When Can I Obtain A Social Security Number?
To get a SS# to work on campus all that is required is a letter from your DSO stating that you are authorized to work and that you are enrolled in a full course of study as second year student. If you wish to work off campus your DSO will confirm as above but in this case you will need to also submit your college transcripts to date. These documents are then filed with your form I-765 and I-20 A-B or I-538 and I-20 A-B, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Can I Travel Outside The USA?
Students may leave the USA and be readmitted after absences of up to five months. All absences should be approved and signed by your DSO. On the student’s return, he or she must present their valid passport, valid F-1, current I-20 ID (student ID card), and DSO departure authority.
Can I Switch Courses Or Institutions?
In order to be eligible to switch institutions you must be a full time student in good academic standing. This basically means that you have maintained good attendance and maintained good grades. You must complete your portion of the I-20 A-B and give it to your new DSO within 15 days of transferring.
Can I Bring My Spouse And Children With Me To The US ?
Your spouse and children may come with you and will be issued with F-2 visas. Your DSO will issue I-20 certificates for each family member that will be submitted with the student’s general visa application documents. Copies of the family members’ passports will also be submitted. Therefore, all that is required is that they must attend any Embassy interview. All passports must have at least six months left prior to expiry.