F1 Visas

If you wish to attend a university or other academic institution in the United States, including primary and secondary school, or a language training program you will require an F-1 visa. Please note that F-1 visas cannot be issued to attend a public elementary school (grades K through 8, approximately ages 5 to 14) or publically funded adult education program such as foreign language classes.

While an F-1 can be issued to attend public secondary school (grades 9 through 12, approximately ages 14 to 18), students are limited to a maximum of 12 months of high school in F-1 status and must show proof that payment has been made for the full, unsubsidized cost of the education at the time they apply for the visa.  Private elementary or secondary schools are not affected by this ruling and provided the school issues you with the form I-20, you may apply for an F1 Visa.

In general those wishing to study in the United States require student (F-1 or M-1) visas depending on whether the study is academic or vocational.