Types of US Study Visas

All the foreign students willing to study abroad in the US - either for a shorter period or a full degree - may need to apply for a US student visa. Here we present a quick guide for you to the types of non-immigrant study visas for students planning to study in the United States.

F Visa

This is the type of student visa for foreign students who are willing to pursue a full academic degree at an accredited university or college in US or to study English language at an intensive institute or a university.

There are 3 types of F visa:

F-1 for international students willing to apply for a full-time study in the university or institution of USA recognized by the US Department of Homeland Security.

F-2 visas for dependents of students holding a F-1 visa (unmarried children under 21 years and spouse). Children with an F-2 visa can study at the K-12 level in the US.

F-3 visas are for border commuters. Canadian and Mexican students who live in their origin country while attending a part of full- or part-time school/college in the US.

M Visa

This category of US student visa is for foreign students who wish to engage in vocational or non-academic training or study at any institution in the US.

There are 3 types of M visa:

M-1 visas for international students enrolled in a non-academic or vocational program.

M-2 study visa is offered to the dependents of M-1 vocational student visa holders.

M-3 visas are offered to border commuters for non-academic or vocational study programs.

J visa

This third type of US study visa is for foreign exchange visitors who are participating in the cultural exchange programs in the US. J visa holders typically stay in USA for a short period, usually one or two semesters.

There are 2 types of J visa:

J-1 visas are for exchange visitors enrolling on a relevant exchange program.

J-2 visas are offered to the dependents of J-1 visa holders.

Derivative visas

F-2, M-2, and J-2 visa holders can study in the US provided they meet the eligibility criteria of their chosen institution. J-2 visa holders can register as degree-seeking or recreational students, either part-time or full-time.