Student Visas

Can You Switch to a Student Visa From Another U.S. Visa?

If you’re living in the U.S. on another visa, but are interested in attending school, it might be possible to do a “change of status” and pursue your studies without having to leave first.

Attending U.S. Elementary or High School on an F-1 Visa

You might be able to enter the U.S. on an F-1 visa to attend elementary or secondary school, but public schools are a difficult case, because you'd have to get them to charge you tuition.

Can I Change My Status From J-1 Visa to F-1 Visa?

If you are an exchange visitor and you would like to stay in the U.S. to study, you may be able to get an F-1 student visa. Here are the legal issues to consider.

Transferring to a Different School on an F-1 Visa

As long as you maintain your F-1 student status, transferring schools should be fairly straightforward.

Financial Requirements for a Student Visa

If you want to apply for a student visa in the United States, you'll need to prove you can afford the tuition and related costs.

Applying for a U.S. Student Visa While on a Tourist Visa

Learn about the tricky legal issues you might encounter if you'd like to stay in the U.S. to study after having entered on a B-2 tourist visa.

How to Extend Your F-1 Student Visa

If you are making normal progress towards your school degree, but you need more time than was authorized on your I-20 form, here's how to extend your F-1 status.

Can You Maintain Legal Status With an Expired F-1 Student Visa?

You can still maintain your legal status as an F-1 student, even after your visa stamp has expired.

Overstayed on a Student Visa: Options to Stay in the U.S.

If you've overstayed an F-1 or J-1 student visa, you have a few options to stay in or return to - the U.S.

Reinstating Your F-1 Student Status

Here's what to do if you have fallen out of F-1 status, but wish to return to your studies.

Can an Out of Status F-1 Visa Student Get a Green Card?

Find out if having fallen out of status will impact the student's ability to get a green card (U.S. lawful permanent residence).

Why You May Be Denied an F-1 U.S. Student Visa

Learn about failures to meet the basic requirements and other likely reasons for denial of a student visa.

How to Avoid Breaking the Student Visa Rules

Once you're in the U.S. and studying, keep these tips in mind to avoid issues with your student visa status.