Only full-time college courses will qualify for F-1 / M-1 visas. Full-time hours typically mean a course that carries at least 12 semester hours per week. Some full-time courses may require higher workloads. Your DSO should confirm whether your course qualifies.

Having made your initial contacts with the DSO you will need to submit all of the information they require to officially determine your suitability for their course as outlined above. Your credential evaluation report will be their primary basis for admission. In addition, they will require proof that you have sufficient monies to fund the course and yourself. These are called living expenses. Proof of funding will include a showing of bank accounts, tax returns and any other documentation proving that you or the person vouching for you can do so, so be prepared.

Example: John Smith Community State College

Tuition and fees	$3,000.00
Living Expenses	$10,000.00
Books	$500.00
Total	$13,500.00

Once the college is satisfied as to your suitability for a place on a course they will issue an official certificate of acceptance called an I-20 A-B. Once the student has this in place, the next step is for the student to make a formal student visa application.

Student Visa Guide