F1-Visa Application Guide For International Students

Key Points:

The F‑1 Visa allows international students to study full-time at approved schools in the U.S. To qualify, you’ll need an I‑20 from a SEVP-certified school, proof of financial support, and intent to return home after your studies. The application process includes submitting Form DS‑160, paying the SEVIS and Visa fees, scheduling a Visa interview, and showing strong ties to your home country. Once approved, you’ll enter the U.S. as a student and must maintain status by attending full-time and avoiding unauthorized work.

Thousands of international students choose Houston every year to pursue their education. The F‑1 Visa makes that possible, but only if you meet the requirements and follow the steps carefully.

Whether you’re applying for college, graduate school, or a language program, the F‑1 Visa is your gateway to studying legally in the U.S. Let’s walk through how it works and how you can make your application count.

What Is An F‑1 Visa & Who Qualifies To Apply For One

The F‑1 Visa is the most common student Visa used by international students coming to the U.S. It’s a non-immigrant Visa, which means it allows you to study temporarily in the United States, but not to immigrate permanently.

To be eligible, you’ll need to meet specific requirements and follow the rules that apply to student status.

You Must Be Accepted By A SEVP-Certified School

Before you can even apply for an F‑1 Visa, you must first be accepted to a SEVP-certified school. It includes colleges, universities, language training programs, and some high schools. Once received, the school will issue you a Form I‑20, which you need for your Visa application.

You Must Prove You Can Afford Your Education & Living Expenses

The U.S. government wants to be sure you can support yourself while studying. That means you’ll need to show bank statements, scholarships, sponsor letters, or other documentation proving you can pay tuition, rent, food, and other living costs without working illegally.

You Must Plan To Return To Your Home Country

Because the F‑1 is a temporary Visa, you’ll have to convince the consular officer that you intend to go home after you finish your program. You must show through family ties, job prospects, or assets in your home country.

If the officer believes you plan to stay in the U.S. permanently, they may deny your application.

You Must Speak &Understand English (In Most Cases)

Most schools require a minimum level of English proficiency. Some programs offer conditional acceptance if you first complete language training. Either way, your interview will likely be in English, and your ability to communicate can impact your approval.

F‑1 Visa eligibility isn’t just about grades or test scores. It’s about showing you’re prepared, funded, and committed to following the rules. If you meet the criteria, the Visa can unlock a world of opportunity in Houston and beyond.

Step-By-Step Process To Apply For An F‑1 Student Visa

Applying for an F‑1 Visa takes planning, paperwork, and a bit of patience. The process involves both the U.S. school and the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Here’s a clear step-by-step breakdown of how to go from accepted student to approved Visa holder.

1. Get Accepted By A SEVP-Certified School

The process starts with your school application. Once you’re accepted, the school will issue a Form I‑20, which is required to apply for your Visa. Make sure all the information on the I‑20 is accurate before moving forward.

2. Pay The SEVIS I‑901 Fee

You must pay the SEVIS fee after receiving your I‑20 and before scheduling your Visa interview. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, and you’ll need the receipt for your appointment. As of this year, 2025, the fee is $350.

3. Complete The Online DS‑160 Visa Application

Next, fill out Form DS‑160, the online application for a non-immigrant Visa. After submitting it, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a barcode. Bring that to your Visa interview.

4. Schedule & Attend Your Visa Interview

Set up an appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Bring your I‑20, DS‑160 confirmation, passport, Visa fee receipt, SEVIS receipt, financial documents, and acceptance letter. At the interview, a consular officer will ask questions about your studies, finances, and intent to return home.

5. Wait For Visa Approval & Make Travel Plans

If approved, your passport will be returned with the F‑1 Visa inside. You can then enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date. Make sure you carry your I‑20 and Visa with you when you travel.

Applying for an F‑1 Visa isn’t overly complicated, but it must be done correctly. Each step matters, and missing a fee, form or document can delay your plans. With the right preparation, you’ll be on your way to studying in Houston in no time.

Maintaining Your F‑1 Visa Status While Studying In The U.S.

Getting your F‑1 Visa approved is a big step, but keeping it valid is just as important. Once you’re in the U.S. on a student Visa, you’re responsible for following certain rules.

Breaking even one can put your status at risk and affect your future immigration options.

Stay Enrolled Full-Time

You must remain enrolled as a full-time student during each academic term. Dropping below the required number of credits without prior authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) can lead to immediate status violations. Always talk to your DSO before making any changes.

Work Only With Proper Authorization

F‑1 students can work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks. Off-campus work, such as CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training), requires advance approval.

Unauthorized employment is one of the most common ways students fall out of status.

Keep Your I‑20 & Passport Updated

Make sure your I‑20 remains valid and reflects accurate information, including your program dates, major, and funding. If anything changes, notify your DSO immediately. Also, keep your passport valid for at least six months into the future at all times.

Don’t Overstay Or Violate Terms

After your program ends, you have a 60-day grace period to leave the U.S., transfer to another school, or apply for OPT. Overstaying or failing to maintain your status can make you ineligible for future Visas or even lead to removal.

Staying in status isn’t about memorizing legal codes; it’s about staying aware, asking questions, and keeping your paperwork current. Your DSO is your first point of contact for guidance, and it’s always better to ask early than to fix a mistake later.

With care and attention, you can maintain your Visa and focus on what matters most, your education.

Frequently Asked Questions About The F‑1 Visa Process

International students often have plenty of questions before and after getting their F‑1 Visa. From interviews to travel rules, it helps to understand what’s allowed and what’s not.

Here are answers to a few of the most common questions we hear from students preparing to study in Houston.