10 Facts about Studying in California on an F-1 Student Visa

Entering the United States on an F-1 student visa is a great way to experience the state of California while simultaneously gaining valuable knowledge. This type of visa is the most popular visa for international students currently studying in the United States. The following is a list of ten facts about the F-1 student visa provided by an experienced California immigration attorney:

1. In order to obtain a California F-1 student visa, the applicant must be coming to California to study full time, be attending a USCIS approved academic program, and be attending a school that is authorized to issue a 1-20.
2. An endless number of individuals who wish to take advantage of this program are welcome to, as there are no visa number limits in the United States on the F-1 student visa at any one time.
3. The F-1 visa covers the length of the entire academic program, plus an additional 60 days after graduation.
4. The F-1 student visa is processed in 120 days or less. Submitting it earlier will not serve any purpose, as early applications are simply held until the 120 day mark.
5. Students coming to California on the F-1 student visa may enter the U.S. 30 days or less before the start of the academic program, any earlier and the student will need a separate visitor visa.
6. To qualify for an F-1 student visa, the applicant must have a residence abroad, with no immediate attention of abandoning it, intend to depart the U.S. upon completion of study, and possess sufficient funds to pursue the proposed course of study
7. As part of the application process, if the applicant is between the ages of 14 and 79, he or she must have an interview at the embassy consular section.
8. During the interview process, an ink free digital finger print is taken of the applicant.
9. Applicants must be prepared to show transcripts and diplomas from previous schools that were attended, copies of standardized test scores, and proof that the applicant or the applicant’s parents can cover the costs of tuition and living expenses during the time that the student will be in California.
10. Any applicant who wishes to bring dependents must provide proof of the student’s relationship to the spouse or children that he or she intends to bring and a copy of the student visa holder’s passport and visa.

For more information about studying in California on an F-1 student visa, contact an experienced California immigration lawyer to assist you through this overwhelming process. Fill out our online form or contact us at 415-221-2800.