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Student Visas

Opportunities abound to study in the United States.

Over 8,000 schools are certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to accept international students. Many of the top-tier centers of learning in business, education, medicine, science, engineering, information technology, finance, languages, and more are located in the U.S. Over 445,000 F-1 Student visas were approved in 2023. Qualifying international students are welcome, and JCL Immigration Attorneys can help you start the student visa process!

student visa

F-1 Student Visa

Most international students in the U.S. are on F-1 status. They may attend high schools or language schools, but most attend universities and work towards a bachelor’s degree or higher.

General Details:

  • You must be enrolled in an “academic” educational program, a language training program, or a vocational program.
  • The Student and Exchange Visitors Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement must approve your school.
  • You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution.
  • You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency.
  • You must have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study.
  • You must maintain a residence abroad which you have no intention of giving up.

Your Student Immigration Attorney can help you with the necessary details for applying to accredited and qualified schools, securing housing, collecting documentation, and more. Contact JCL Immigration Attorneys in Scottsdale with your questions.

Work Authorization for F-1 Students

International students may work during their course of study under certain conditions. F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year but may accept on-campus employment under certain conditions and restrictions. After the first academic year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is work/training directly related to the student’s major study area and is considered an integral part of the school’s established curriculum. A designated school official (DSO) must authorize CPT for the student. Students should not have more than one year of full-time CPT because it renders them ineligible for OPT. Other requirements and guidelines apply, so talk with your JCL Immigration Attorney and school counselor for more details.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT is temporary employment directly related to the student’s major area of study. Eligible students can participate in OPT in two ways:

  • Pre-completion OPT: This is temporary employment related to your field of study that is performed during your course of study and after completing one full year of school. Students are allowed to work 20 hours or less per week while school is in session and full-time when school is not in session.
  • Post-completion OPT: This is temporary employment related to your field of study performed after completing your course of study. You must work at least 20 hours or more if authorized for OPT. You must apply for OPT within 90 days of or no later than 60 days after graduation.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

Certain students who earned a STEM degree (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) may be eligible for a 24-month extension of post-completion OPT. Speak with an Arizona Immigration Attorney or your school counselor for more details and how to apply.

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Whether you are an employer or an individual trying to explore options to work and stay in the U.S., we welcome you to contact us.

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