Types of Visas

There are two types of non-immigrant student visas: the F-1 visa and the J-1 visa. The student should make sure which visa he or she will be entitled to before applying for one. Dependents are allowed to accompany students, and may be granted F-2 or J-2 visa classification. A foreign student in the F-1 classification may stay in the US for an extended period of time to complete degrees or continuing education, and may be allowed to work in the US by changing his or her status to a H1B work visa.

Usually the F-1 visa will be issued for the period of study. For example, if the student is joining a Bachelor'#s program, then he or she may be granted four or five years. If the student is applying for a Master'#s program, then he or she may be granted three to five years.