Overview of Policies for International Students in the USA
- Student Visa Requirements:
- International students must obtain an F-1 (for academic studies for vocational studies) visa. This requires acceptance into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school, proof of sufficient financial resources, and a valid passport.
- Maintaining Visa Status:
- Students must maintain a full-time course load (typically 12 credit hours for undergraduate students) and make satisfactory academic progress. They must also update their school about any changes in address or program.
- Work Authorization:
- F-1 students can work on campus without additional authorization. Off-campus employment is allowed under specific conditions, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which require prior approval.
- Health Insurance:
- Many institutions require international students to have health insurance, either through the school’s plan or a private plan. This is crucial as healthcare in the USA can be very expensive.
- Cultural Adjustment:
- International students may face cultural adjustments and should seek resources like counseling services, international student offices, and cultural clubs to ease the transition.
- Post-Graduation Options:
- After graduation, F-1 students may apply for OPT, allowing them to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (with a possible extension for STEM graduates). This can be a pathway to applying for other work visas.
