What is the difference between F and M visa? Individuals that live outside of the United States may be eligible to enter into the U.S. for schooling. Before entering the country, they will have to go through the process of obtaining a student visa. By filling out an I-20 form, you will choose either the M student visa or the F student visa. The M visa is for those wishing to attend a vocational or other non-academic institution. The F visa is for individuals looking to attend a university, college, high school, seminary, conservatory or private elementary school. With one of these student visas, individuals will be able to enter the country and receive the education they hoped for. This can benefit the future of the individual and expose them to a new culture with various opportunities. Who is eligible for a student visa? There are a few requirements that are needed to show that an aspiring student is eligible for a student visa. Before choosing whether the M or F visa is appropriate, you must be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor program approved school. Then you will apply for the appropriate visa based upon your school preference. When trying to obtain a student visa, there are specific places to go through the process. Visas can be requested through an embassy, consulate or even online. Once the application is completed, an interview will be scheduled to review more in-depth information regarding your student visa approval. How do I prepare for the interview portion of the process? Before attending the interview, it is vital to gather documents that must be presented at the meeting. These documents can include a passport that will be eligible for six months beyond the stay period, an application fee receipt, the I-20 form and a certificate of eligibility for an F-1 or M-1 visa. A photo of yourself may also be required to prove your identity. A nonimmigrant visa application can also be asked to review. Some interviewers would like to see documentation of your school history. This can include transcripts, diplomas, degrees or any certificates you may have received. Some interviews may not be necessary based on the individual applying for the student visa. If the interviewee is under 13 years old or over 80 years old, they may be excused from having to attend an interview session. However, this decision is based upon the consular officer’s final call. Our firm understands how much is on the line when clients face matters related to immigration. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for matters regarding immigration, please contact the Law Offices of Salvatore A. Falletta, LLC and we would be happy to provide you with assistance. Our firm is located in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Are you looking to study in the United States? If so, you should make sure that you’re getting the correct visa for your purposes before you apply. There are three different visas that are called student visas in the United States: the F, M, and J visas. Learn how these visas vary and which one is most appropriate for your particular. Applying for a Student Visa The three types of student visas are for different types of learning. F, M, and J visas are each governed by a unique set of regulations. Those applying for type F or M visas must attend a school or program that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Those applying for a type J visa, on the other hand, must receive sponsorship from an organization approved by the Department of State. Type F Visas The F visa, sometimes called the Academic Student Visa, is used by visitors who wish to attend an accredited college, university, seminary, preparatory high school, or other academic learning institution. This visa covers all students participating in a traditional academic program. Type M Visas The M visa, also known as the Vocational Student Visa, is available to students who wish to go into a non-academic learning program in the United States. These programs typically have a shorter duration and are focused on technical skills like cooking, design, or programming. Type J Visas The J visa is most commonly known as the Exchange Visitor’s visa and includes a variety of available programs. This visa is open to a variety of groups, including: Professors Research assistants Students Teachers Interns Nannies Camp counselors The programs covered under the type J visa are focused on cultural exchange. While this can be a type of student visa, not all those applying for a type J visa are students, as you can see from the list above. A passport and a pen on top of a student visa application form. Learn more about the differences between F, M, and J student visas. Applying for an F, M, or J Student Visa There are many steps that must be followed in order to apply for a student visa, and the process can be a lengthy one. If you are considering applying for a student visa to come to the United States, FileRight can provide you with the tools you need to ensure that your visa application is filed correctly. Contact us to find out more about the visa application process and discover which visa type is best suited for your situation. FileRight can help if you are planning to come to the country on a temporary student visa, or looking to extend your stay and become a permanent resident or even a United States citizen.