This is the most common type of student visa.
If you wish to engage in academic studies in the United States at an approved school, such as an accredited U.S.
college or university, private secondary school or approved English language program then you need an F-1 visa.
You will also need an F-1 visa if your course of study is more than 18 hours a week.
An F1 visa is issued to international students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program at a US college or university.
F1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status.
They can remain in the US for up to 60 days beyond the length of time it takes to complete their academic program unless they have applied and been approved to stay and work for a period of time under the OPT Program.
F1 students are expected to complete their studies by the expiration date on their I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status) which is provided by the US college or university that the student has been accepted to and will attend.