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5 Best US Visa Options For PhD Holders

by Gertrude Nonterah PhD | Nov 6, 2021

What’s the best US visa for PhD holders who are non-US citizens but want to work in the US?

For most international PhD students, there might not be family to depend on if you don’t land a job right after graduation. Thus finding work is crucial. But to find work , you need the right work visa – something that can literally be the reason why despite your qualifications, an organization may not offer you a role.

Needless to say, this can cause a lot of anxiety for an international PhD.

How do I know? Because, once upon a time, this was my story!

So if you’re drawing close to the end of your studies and are feeling some anxiety over this, trust me, you’re not alone.

I’ve talked about how I successfully adjusted my status from being an F1 international student to becoming a permanent resident. I did this through the Employment Based National Interest Waiver program for advanced degree holders.

There are however, other visa options you can explore as an international PhD student.

We’ll cover five of the best work visa options for international PhDs in this post. I’ll also touch on which work visa may be best depending on your long-term goals.

Want to watch this as a video? Click on the play button below.

Looking for the best US visa for PhD holders? Consider these five below.

Optional Practical Training for F1 international students

As an international student, you get twelve months of optional practical training (OPT) for each level of education you complete after graduation. If you are a student in STEM, you can apply to extend your OPT by 24 months after the original twelve. This provides you with a total of three years within which you can work legally.

I think this is a such a great opportunity especially if you want to gain some work experience in the US after school.

O-1 Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability

According to the USCIS website, the O-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, business, education, athletics or in the film industry. These achievements should have been recognized nationally or internationally.

The USCIS approves the O-1 visa for three years and then you can renew it each year after that for as long as you need to. The drawback however is that because the O-1 is a non-immigrant visa, you are not considered a permanent resident of the US. Thus, you may not necessarily be on the path to citizenship. If this is not your long-term goal, this could be an excellent visa type for you. However, if it is your plan to later on become a citizen of the US, I recommend another visa type like the EB1 or EB2/NIW visa which I’ll touch on later.

The H1-B visa is another non-immigrant visa category that applies to individuals working in specialty occupations in the United States. Each year, the H1-B program has a cap of 65,000 visas. Of course, more people than that apply to the program. Thus there is a “lottery” system where the government randomly picks the recipients of these visas. An additional 20,000 H1-B visas are reserved for individuals with a master’s degree or higher from a US institution. This is exempt from the cap.

If you work at an accredited higher education institution or non-profit research or government organization, you can apply for an H1-B as well and be exempt from the H1-B cap.

The drawback to this visa type is that you need an US employer to get it and maintain it.

If you lose your job while on an H1-B, usually, this also means you lose your visa status or else you would need to find an employer willing to “transfer” your visa.

This happened to a colleague of mine once, and it was a very stressful time for him and his family.

Employment-Based (EB) Visa Categories

The “EB” visa categories are in my estimation, the best if you intend on becoming a permanent resident in the US.

The other great thing about this category is that you don’t necessarily need an employer to file one on your behalf. You can self-petition for this visa category within or from outside the United States as long as you satisfy the requirements.

As an international PhD, you can either file under the EB1-Extraordinary Ability category or under the EB2-National Interest Waiver category.

Both of these have immigrant intent. Once you file it successfully and the government approves your case, you become a permanent resident of the US.

The EB1 visa is similar to the O-1 visa in that you have to prove to the government that you have extraordinary ability in your field that has merited national or international acclaim.

The EB2 visa category will require that you prove that your work – usually your research – is of national importance.

In my opinion, this is the most suitable US visa for PhD holders who plan on saying in the US long-term.

So far, most of the visa types I’ve mentioned fit very well if you received a PhD in the United States.

If you received your PhD from a country outside the US and you plan on doing academic research, a visa option you may consider is the J-1 visa.

The USCIS considers this visa type, an “exchange visitor” program for the purpose of international scholars and experts to exchange knowledge with colleagues in the United States.

If you need to adjust your status to another visa type while on the J-1 visa, it is likely that you might have to return your home country to do so.

The best US visa for PhD holders: it’s different for everyone

Choosing the best US visa as a PhD holder depends on your goals and your situation.

I’ve known international students who have immediately left the US after graduation.

Some have stayed and worked for a while and then either relocated home or to another country.

For some, the goal might be to work and live in the US permanently.

There is a visa path for each one of these options. So I encourage you to ask yourself some deep questions on what your long-term goals are as you select a visa path.

For more information on each of the visa types, visit the links below.

• Optional Practical Training for F1 Students
• Employment-Based Categories ( EB1 and EB2 )

Related posts:

• The EB-1 Visa For PhDs Without a Nobel? Yes, it’s possible.
• How I Balanced Having A Baby In The Middle Of My PhD

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US Graduate Student Visas Explained

Thomas Nugent - BusinessBecause

Thomas Nugent is the Deputy Editor for BusinessBecause.

Are you an international candidate considering business schools in the United States? You must have a valid student visa before you start business school and, as an international candidate, you should get familiar with US graduate student visas—the different types of visas and how to apply—before enrolling in MBA or business master’s programs in the US.

Here’s everything you need to know:

US graduate student visas: F-1 vs J-1

To apply for a student visa, you’ll first need a valid, up-to-date passport for the duration of your degree. You’ll also need to have secured a place on a program of study in the US.

There are two types of US graduate student visa that are valid for international candidates: The F-1 visa and the J-1 visa.

The F-1 visa is the nonimmigrant graduate student visa you’ll need if you’re planning to study full-time at a US business school.

For new students, F visas can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date for your course; you’ll not be allowed to enter the US on your student visa more than 30 days before the start date of your course.

If you’re on an F-1 visa, you can also undertake an internship after completing at least one full academic year of study. This will likely be completed as Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

Employment for 20 hours or more a week counts as a full-time internship . You should be aware that 12 months or more of full-time CPT will eliminate your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) . OPT is often used by students to remain in the US for 12 months to work after graduation.

If you’re travelling to the US with immediate family, they will need to apply for an F-2 nonimmigrant visa, which will allow them to remain in the US for the duration of your F-1 visa.

The J-1 visa is the visa you’ll need if you’re travelling to study full-time in the US on an exchange program from another business school, typically for one or two semesters. The J-2 visa is the F-2 equivalent your dependents will need to apply for if they are travelling to the US with you.

Your visa application

Applying for an F-1 visa is a nuanced process that can vary based on the program you’re applying to, your individual circumstances, and your home country. While business schools support you, they are not directly involved in the visa application process.

The admissions team at NYU Stern recommend beginning your visa application as early as possible. At Stern, once accepted, international students receive a Form I-20 from NYU’s Office of Global Services (OGS), which proves you’re legally enrolled in a US education program, before getting to work on the visa application.

Danielle Richie, who leads admissions for the full-time MBA program at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School , encourages candidates to go directly to source—US embassies or consulates—if they have questions about the required documentation.

“We recommend that students start the process to apply for a visa as soon as they can, which means requesting the documentation from the school needed for visa application as early as possible,” she adds. “For best possible planning, check visa wait times for the US Embassy or Consulate closest to you to find out how long it will take to get a visa appointment and how long visa processing will take.”

Your 6-step visa application

🌎 Step 1. You can start to apply for your graduate student visa as soon as you’ve been granted a place at an SEVP-approved business school. You’ll be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS ) . You’ll need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee , which is US$350 for F visas, and US$220 for J visas.

🌎 Step 2. If you’re an F-1 visa applicant, you’ll be given a Form I-20 by your school. After completing this, you can then apply for your visa at a US Embassy or Consulate. If you have dependents travelling with you on F-2 visas, they need to also complete this process. However, they don’t need to pay the SEVIS fee. J visa applicants skip the Form I-20 stage.

🌎 Step 3. Complete your online visa application, Form DS-160 .

🌎 Step 4. Schedule a visa interview at your local US Embassy or Consulate .

🌎 Step 5. Prepare for your interview. As an F-1 visa applicant, you may be required to pay your non-refundable visa application fee before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee. This varies depending on your nationality.

🌎 Step 6. Attend your interview. Your consular officer may inform you that your application requires further administrative processing after your interview. Once your visa is approved and you’ve paid your issuance fee (if required), you must make arrangements for the return of your passport and visa.

Important documents

You’ll need the following when applying for your US graduate student visa:

• Passport—this must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the US
• Nonimmigrant visa application—Form DS-160
• Application fee payment receipt, if required to pay before your interview
• Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) student status, Form I-20

You may also need:

• Academic transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended
• Standardized test scores required by your US school
• Your intent to depart the US upon completion of your course of study
• How you will pay all educational, living, and travel costs

Remember to keep up with the news, as the visa application process is something that can change depending on government action. “Policies can and do change, so prospective students are wise to monitor these areas during their application process,” warns Danielle of UNC Kenan-Flagler.

But don’t let the visa application process put you off. Thousands of international MBA and master’s students secure student visas each year.

The best way to ease yourself through the visa application process is to keep in regular touch with both the admissions team at your business school and your local US Embassy or Consulate.

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Thomas Nugent  is the Deputy Editor for  BusinessBecause , with responsibilities supporting the Editor with content and SEO strategy, alongside editorial team development.

Thomas is an experienced writer who has written articles covering business education, management, careers, and the future of work.

He launched and edits the BusinessBecause Insights series, which explores the latest research and trends from the business school classroom, drawing on the expertise of world-leading professors to inspire and inform current and future leaders. The Insights series has covered things like the sharing economy, working from home during COVID-19, the future of the office, NFTs, and ESG investing.

Thomas earned an MA in English from the University of Aberdeen before completing an MSc in Journalism at Robert Gordon University. He joined BusinessBecause in October 2017.

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There are several visa types that Harvard University may sponsor, depending on a multitude of factors. The most common visa type used for new and incoming scholars is the J-1 Research Scholar visa. Arrangements to sponsor alternative types of visas must be discussed with the HIO . 

The HIO advisors will determine the most appropriate visa to use for each individual scholar. The type of visa chosen depends on many factors: the source and amount of the scholar's salary or funding, the nature and duration of the appointment, how soon the appointment will begin, and whether the individual is currently in the U.S. or has recently been in the U.S. and is therefore subject to certain restrictions. Scholars must not plan to enter the U.S. without the appropriate visa documents processed by the HIO.

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A Definitive Guide to U.S. Visas for Students and Recent Graduates

Are you confused by the different types of work and student visas? Check out our guide to U.S. visas.

Whether you are a prospective student or soon-to-be graduate of a U.S. college or university, understanding your different options and how U.S. visas work is important. The United States government offers an alphabet soup of categories that visitors may qualify for depending on the purpose of their stay in the country. Our guide to U.S. visas will help you untangle all those letters and numbers, and determine the one you need.

Broadly speaking, there are two main types of visas: non-immigrant and immigrant visas . Unless you’re engaged to marry a U.S. citizen or have a U.S. employer willing to sponsor you for a green card, the initial options available are in the non-immigrant visa category. With non-immigrant visas the assumption is you will return home after your program is complete.

3 Types of Visas for Students

If you’re coming to the United States for studies, there are three student visa categories.

• F-1 academic student The F-1 student visa is the most common visa type for students. More than 90% of international students who study at academic colleges and universities in the United States are issued an F-1 visa.
• M-1 vocational student The M-1 visa is for full-time study at a vocational or other nonacademic institution.
• J-1 exchange student visitor The J-1 visa is for exchange students studying abroad for a semester or two, as part of an agreement between a student’s home country university and a U.S. university.

3 Types of Post-Study Work Options

Many international students nearing the end of their degree studies are eager to explore work opportunities in the U.S. Each student visa type mentioned above has its own work experience options available as a benefit of their visa status.

• F-1 Optional Practical Training An OPT visa for graduating F-1 students offers the opportunity to work in the U.S. for 1-3 years, depending on your major, per completed degree level (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral). Check out this guide to the OPT process for a detailed look.
• M-1 Practical Training A post-graduation visa for M-1 students that offers the opportunity to work in the U.S. for a maximum of 6 months.
• J-1 Academic Training Offers up to 18 months maximum for J-1 students who complete bachelor’s or master’s degree. Doctoral graduates can receive an extra 18 months of employment authorization. Exchange students who are in the U.S. without earning a U.S. degree must complete any academic training within their initial program length.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a complete listing of different visa options for students to work in the United States.

2 Most Common Work Visa Categories

After authorized work experience tied to a student’s initial visa status ends, there are two main types of non-immigrant visas that students can apply to, through their employers, to continue work.

• H-1B for specialty occupations – Requires a higher education degree or its equivalent and theoretical or technical expertise in a certain field, such as science, engineering or computer programming – Initial authorization is 3 years – Can be renewed for an additional 3 years
• L-1A or B for intracompany transfer – Must have been employed for at least a year at a subsidiary or the parent company – Length of visa would be either 5 years (L-1B) or 7 years (L-1A)

Students who transition to H-1B visas after they finish their practical training may wish to stay in the U.S. longer, particularly if their job is going well. If you find yourself in that situation, it will be time to speak with an immigration attorney and your employer about switching to either an immigrant work visa and/or applying for a green card/permanent residency.

Other Work Visa Types

While you may have athletic, artistic or spiritual talents, you would need to be a world-class athlete, artist or entertainer (P visa) or religious worker (R visa). Otherwise, you likely find yourself applying for one of the above visa categories for students.

Additional Resources

The U.S. visa process can be complicated, and your country of origin may affect the visa guidelines outlined above. As part of our guide to U.S. visas, we gathered some more resources for you to explore.

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
• U.S. News Global Education counselor team
• More articles about the visa process

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Insider's guide: PhD requirements in USA for international students

Pursuing a PhD in the United States can be a life-changing experience for international students looking to enhance their academic qualifications, advance their careers, and expand their horizons. However, before embarking on this journey, it's important to understand the requirements and expectations of the US doctoral education system.

In this article, we'll delve into the essential PhD requirements in the USA for international students, covering academic qualifications, English language proficiency, standardised tests, funding, and visa procedures.

Table of Contents

Academic qualifications, english language proficiency, standardised tests, visa procedures, frequently asked questions.

Academic qualifications are an important requirement for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. Students are typically required to hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university, with a strong academic record and relevant coursework.

The specific academic qualifications required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Some programs may require a bachelor's degree in a specific field, while others may accept students with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Some programs may also require a master's degree, while others may allow students to earn a master's degree as part of the PhD program.

In addition to the degree requirements, international students may be required to provide official transcripts and diplomas from all institutions attended, as well as a course-by-course evaluation of their academic credentials from a recognised credential evaluation service.

It is also important for international students to have relevant coursework and research experience in their field of study. PhD programs in the USA typically require students to conduct independent research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field. Therefore, having a strong academic background and relevant research experience can increase a student's chances of being admitted to a PhD program.

International students should carefully review the academic qualifications required for each program they are interested in and ensure that they meet the requirements. If their qualifications do not meet the requirements, they may need to take additional coursework or earn a higher degree before applying to PhD programs.

Also read: Ultimate guide PhD in the UK

English language proficiency is also one of the essential PhD requirements in USA for international students. The ability to communicate effectively in English is crucial to succeed in academic and professional settings in the US.

Most universities require international students to demonstrate their proficiency in English by taking an English language proficiency exam. The most commonly accepted exams are the TOEFL, IELTS.

The minimum scores required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Typically, a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS is required, but some programs may require higher scores.

In addition to the TOEFL or IELTS, some universities may accept other English language proficiency exams, such as the PTE Academic or the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam.

Also read: PhD Scholarship for Pakistani Students

Standardised tests are an important requirement for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. Standardised tests are used to assess an applicant's academic abilities and potential for success in a PhD program. The most commonly required standardised tests for PhD programs in the USA include the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).

The GRE is a standardised test that assesses a student's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The test is typically required for admission to graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.

The GMAT is a standardised test that assesses a student's analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills. The test is typically required for admission to graduate programs in business and management.

The minimum scores required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Typically, a minimum score in the 50th percentile or higher is required for the GRE, while a minimum score of 600 or higher is required for the GMAT.

The specific standardised tests required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Some programs may require the GRE or GMAT, while others may require a different test, such as the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for programs in the health sciences.

Funding can be a critical consideration for international students pursuing a PhD in the USA. Pursuing a PhD in the USA can be quite expensive, with tuition and living expenses often exceeding $50,000 per year. While federal financial aid is not available to international students, there are a variety of funding options that may be available to help cover the cost of tuition, living expenses , and research-related expenses.

One common source of funding for PhD students is through teaching or research assistantships. These positions typically provide a stipend or salary in exchange for work done in support of the department or faculty member providing the funding. Assistantship opportunities can be competitive, but they can provide valuable experience and financial support for students throughout their program.

Scholarships and fellowships can also be a valuable source of funding for international students pursuing a PhD in the USA. These awards may be offered by the university, private foundations, or other organisations, and can cover some or all of the cost of tuition and living expenses.

International students may also be eligible for funding from their home country or through external sources such as grants or fellowships. It's important for students to research these opportunities and understand any restrictions or requirements that may apply.

Finally, some students may choose to fund their PhD program through personal savings or by taking out student loans. While these options can provide flexibility in terms of funding, it's important for students to carefully consider the long-term financial implications of taking on debt to fund their education.

Also read: PhD in USA without GRE

The visa application process is an important step for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. International students who are accepted into a PhD program in the USA will typically need to obtain an F-1 student visa.

To begin the visa application process, students will need to provide proof of acceptance into a program, typically in the form of an acceptance letter from the university. In addition, students will need to demonstrate proof of financial support to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses in the USA. This can be done by providing bank statements or other documentation showing that the student or their sponsor has sufficient funds to cover these costs.

Once the initial documentation has been submitted, students will need to complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa application fee, and schedule an appointment at a US embassy or consulate in their home country. During the appointment, students will need to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints) and participate in an interview with a consular officer. The interview is an important part of the visa application process and can be a deciding factor in whether the student is approved for the visa.

It's important for international students to begin the visa application process well in advance of the start of their PhD program, as it can take several weeks or even months to complete all of the necessary steps. Students should also consult with the international student office at their university for guidance and support throughout the process.

Also read: PhD in abroad with scholarships (for Indian students)

Pursuing a PhD in the USA as an international student can be a challenging and rewarding experience. While the requirements for admission can be rigorous, they are designed to ensure that students have the academic qualifications, language proficiency, and aptitude needed to succeed in a doctoral program. With careful planning and research, international students can find funding opportunities and navigate the visa application process to achieve their academic and professional goals.

What is the typical academic qualification required for international students to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

International students are typically required to hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university, with a strong academic record and relevant coursework.

Do international students need to take the GRE or GMAT to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

Yes, in many cases international students are required to take the GRE or GMAT as part of the application process for PhD programs in the USA. The specific requirements can vary depending on the university and program.

Are there any language proficiency tests required for international students to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

Yes, international students whose native language is not English may be required to take an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, as part of the application process for PhD programs in the USA.

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Getting a U.S. Student Visa: What International Students Should Know

Start the visa process early, experts say.

How to Get a U.S. Student Visa

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Most schools will be in touch with admitted international students in early summer to begin gathering information for their visa.

Making the decision to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in the United States is the first of many steps toward becoming an international student. Once students have secured admission to a U.S. university, they will need to obtain a student visa.

Such a visa allows a student to enter and remain in the country for a set period of time for their studies. The types of student visas include:

• F-1 visa: For students pursuing studies at an accredited college or university.
• J-1 visa: For students taking part in an exchange program such as at a high school or university.
• M-1 visa: For students studying or training for non-academic reasons.

Ideally, students seeking an F-1 visa should start gathering the relevant information well before applying to colleges, says Adam Nguyen, founder of Ivy Link, an education and admissions advisory firm.

“That means students should research the specific colleges to which they will be applying and take note of each school's policies for international students. They aren't all the same,” says Nguyen. “We recommend that students start at least a year before applications are due.”

Before applying, make sure your chosen colleges are certified by the Department of Homeland Security's Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which is a requirement for getting a visa.

Getting a head start can help make the visa process go smoothly. Here is what international students need to know:

When the Visa Process Begins

“If you are an international student who has been accepted into a U.S. university, the visa process will start just after you graduate high school and your enrollment into your chosen college has been finalized,” says Leelila Strogov, CEO of AtomicMind, an education and admissions consulting company.

“Be sure that you are responsive to their emails and get them the requested information in a timely manner, or your visa documents could be delayed,” says Strogov.

How to Apply for a U.S. Student Visa

1. register with sevis and pay the fee.

After you've confirmed your acceptance to an SEVP-certified U.S. university, the university will begin the visa process by registering you into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, which is a web-based system that the Department of Homeland Security uses to keep track of F-1 visa students who come to the U.S. for higher education.

Students must pay a fee of $350 to be registered into the SEVIS system. This is in addition to other visa application and insurance fees.

"The total cost for an F-1 visa can vary widely depending on the institution a student has been accepted to, and the country they are currently living in. That said, most students should be prepared to spend several hundred dollars, and most likely more," says Nguyen.

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2. Receive Your I-20 and Complete Your Visa Application

Students will then get an I-20 form from their designated school official, or DSO, at the institution they plan on attending. This form must be presented to the consular officer when you attend your visa interview, Strogov says.

Students must complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160), including uploading a photo, and print out the confirmation page to bring to their interview.

“Read the instructions provided by your new school and the consulate, and always use your full legal name, as presented on your passport,” says Karen Edwards, dean of international student affairs at Grinnell College in Iowa, where 19% of the student body is made up of international students.

Edwards says students who have additional questions should contact their DSO, a regional EducationUSA advisor or reach out directly to their consulate.

3. Schedule Your Interview

Students should schedule an appointment for an interview at the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate office in the country where they live. Wait times for interview appointments can vary, so students are encouraged to apply for their visa as early as possible.

"Procrastination is not conducive to the pursuit of a student visa," says Edwards.

For students who are   unable to secure a visa appointment prior to the start of their school year, Edwards recommends still scheduling the earliest possible appointment, after which, depending on the consulate, students can try to pursue an earlier emergency appointment.

“Most U.S. institutions will not allow a late arrival, so working in collaboration with your designated school official is very important,” says Edwards.

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4. Prepare For and Attend Your Interview

Students should prepare for their visa interview by gathering the required support documents. These include a passport that will be valid for a minimum of six months into the future, all three pages of your I-20, the I-901 SEVIS fee receipt, your DS-160 confirmation page and evidence that you can finance your education, says Edwards.

“As a reminder, F-1 status requires non-immigrant intent, so you should also consider how you might respond to questions from the visa officer,” says Edwards. She says the interview is students' opportunity to confirm their intention to study in the U.S. and return home after graduation.

“The more you know about your intended school and why you want to study here, the better you will do,” says Edwards.

Strogov says new student F-1 visas can be issued up to 365 days in advance of the course of study start date, but students will not be allowed to enter the U.S. on their visa more than 30 days before school starts.

“U.S. universities usually begin classes the first week of September, so you should be able to arrive on campus in early August using your new visa,” says Strogov.

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As an immigration lawyer in the U.S., I travel to the annual meetings of numerous major scientific organizations to give presentations and provide free consultations. I find that most foreign scientists, from PhD students to postdocs who have been in the U.S. for many years, have a poor understanding of their legal situation. If you are going to school or working in the U.S. and you are not a green card holder (“lawful permanent resident”) or U.S. citizen it is extremely important that you understand your own personal path that will lead to a green card. You should have a clear timeline so that you understand your situation and know exactly when it will be necessary for you to take action and move forward at each step of the process.

Start by asking yourself about your plans in the U.S. What is your dream job? Is it a tenure track teaching position or is it in industry? If you are currently a PhD student, do you want to do a postdoc or go straight to industry? Once you have established your short- and long-term goals, you can start to formulate a plan for your own personal immigration timeline.

F-1 Student Visas and OPT (Work Authorization)

If you complete a PhD in the U.S. on an F-1 student visa, it is possible to apply for a green card before you graduate with your PhD, but for a variety of reasons, it is usually not recommended. Depending on your future plans, there may be no benefit to applying early and few people qualify before graduating. In some cases it may make sense to take the risk, but as that is relatively rare, I’m going to skip over this option.

If you are a PhD graduate with an F-1 student visa, your first option after graduation is to obtain work authorization through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program. Through OPT, you can obtain an EAD or (Employment Authorization Document) if you did your PhD in the U.S. Generally, a U.S. PhD qualifies you for three years of work authorization through the OPT program.

Eventually, at the end of your OPT, you will need a green card or a work visa. A green card gives you a permanent lawful status in the U.S. and a path to citizenship. There are two main paths to get a green card (also known as “lawful permanent resident” status): 1) EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) or NIW (National Interest Waiver) Petitions and 2) the PERM labor certification process.

EB-1A and NIW Green Card Petitions

I will discuss the EB-1A and NIW paths in detail in future articles. The one thing that I want you to remember about them for now is that you can “self-petition” or, in layman’s terms, you can file an application for a green card in these categories without an employer. This, however, requires higher qualifications than the second path, the PERM labor certification, and not everyone will qualify to self-petition.

The PERM Labor Certification

If you can’t win an EB-1A or NIW case, you will probably need an employer to help you get a green card. You will need an employer to help due to something called the “labor certification” requirement. Under U.S. law, in order to get a green card, most workers have to prove that there are no U.S. citizens or green card holders who are qualified for a particular job/position offered by an employer who is willing to file a “labor certification” for you.

Now, many immigrants are currently working in a job where they are the MOST qualified person for the job. If you have been working in a particular lab or for a particular employer, on a certain scientific problem, working on a particular project, that lab or project would obviously suffer if you are forced to leave the U.S. or if you decide to leave because you aren’t able to get a green card. No one else knows your job as well as you do. The lab or company would have to recruit a new employee to replace you, it would delay research projects that you are working on, and, in many cases, important research findings may never be made.

However, U.S. law doesn’t take these contributions into account. The law is designed to PROTECT AMERICAN WORKERS. I disagree with the premise that the law actually protects American workers, and I think people like you who are driving scientific research in this country make Americans in general, and specifically, Americans who are involved in research, much better off. Many economists will agree with me on this point, but the economics of this issue aren’t relevant to the decisions that you and your potential employers will be forced to make.

The law says that a company/employer who is willing to file a labor certification for an immigrant worker to help the worker get a green card has to prove that there is “no minimally qualified American worker” for the job.

It isn’t enough to prove that you are the “best applicant”. Rather, you and your employer have to disqualify all other applicants (who are U.S. citizens or green card holders) for the position being offered to you. Also, the “minimum qualifications” for the position are often limited by guidelines from the Department of Labor and these guidelines often set very low qualifications. If a job requires a particular degree and two years of work experience in the field, then any U.S. citizen or green card holder with the right degree and two years of work experience in the field can kill your PERM case simply by submitting a resume to the employer. If your PERM case fails, then you will not have a path to a green card through your employer, although they can try again in the future and retest the labor market.

I think that this system is unfair, and that’s why the EB-1A and NIW categories are so important.

Why Avoid the PERM Labor Certification?

In addition to the possibility that it will be denied, there is another important reason why you may want to avoid the PERM process. If an employer filed a PERM case for you, you may be forced to work for that employer for years before you get your green card. If you decide to change jobs during the process, you abandon the PERM case because it belongs to your employer, not to you. The only exception to this is rare as you can change jobs and still receive your green card after the PERM case is approved and after you file a green card application that has been pending more than 180 days.

In my next blog post, I will talk about the two most important work visas, H-1B and J-1 visas, and how they will impact your path to a green card.

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8 Steps on How to Apply for a U.S. Student Visa

Attending college in the United States, whether at the graduate or undergraduate level, offers many strategic benefits to international students. But, studying in the U.S. requires more than simply making the decision to do so: There is a process that must be followed. One of the most important—and often one of the most intimidating—parts of that process is applying for a student visa that will allow you to study in the United States. 

Are you considering attending a U.S. college or university to earn your degree? Below, we explore the different types of student visas available to you, outline the key steps involved in applying for your student visa, and offer some tips that can help you make the process easier and less stressful.

Determining Which Student Visa is Right For You

If your goal is to study in the U.S. as an international student, then you must apply for and receive a U.S. student visa. By receiving a student visa, you are allowed to temporarily reside in the United States for the purposes of completing your education. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , there are three different types of U.S. student visas available to international students, each of which is better suited to different unique circumstances: The F-1 visa, the M-1 visa, and the J-1 Visa.

The F-1 visa is, generally speaking, the visa that most international students will need to acquire in order to attend either high school or college in the United States. This includes language training programs and applies to both graduate and undergraduate studies. If you would like to earn your degree from a U.S. institution, this is the visa for you.

The M-1 visa is required for international students who will be attending a vocational or other nonacademic institution, such as a trade school. These programs are typically career-focused and are often short-term. 

The J-1 visa is required for any international student who wishes to enter the United States in order to participate in an exchange visitor program, such as those who are spending a semester studying abroad or interning in the U.S. If you want to spend a semester or two studying abroad in the U.S., this is the visa you should apply for.

It is important to note that international students cannot study in the U.S. with a visitor visa or as a part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . 

Steps to Applying for a U.S. Student Visa

1. apply for—and be admitted to—an american university..

In order to apply for your U.S. student visa, you must first apply to and be accepted by a U.S. college or university. 

This means that as soon as you know you would like to study in the United States, you should begin researching potential universities and find the school that best aligns with your personal and career goals . We typically recommend choosing a program that features industry-sourced faculty, challenging academics, and plenty of opportunities for experiential learning such as co-ops and internships . 

Learn More : Organizing Your Grad School Search

It is also important to note that the school must be certified by the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) . You can search a database of these schools here . 

Once you have been admitted to a U.S.-based university, you can begin the visa application process. You must receive your visa before your program officially starts, but the earliest that you can receive your visa is 120 days prior to the program’s official start date. 

2. Obtain a Form I-20 from your college or university.

Upon acceptance to a university, international students seeking their F-1 visa will receive a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (typically referred to as a Form I-20 ) from their school. 

This form will be signed by your designated school official (DSO) and must also be signed by you. A parent signature is required for students under the age of 18. If you intend to bring any eligible dependents with you during your academic studies (such as children) you must receive a Form I-20 for each of them as well. 

3. Submit the I-901 SEVIS Fee payment. 

After receiving your Form I-20, you will be required to pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. At a cost of $200 for F-1 and M-1 visa applicants, this fee is required of all student visa applicants and is used to cover the costs of processing each application. 

Unless you reside in a few select countries (Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, or Nigeria) you can pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee online using a credit card by visiting FMJFee.com . Those residing in one of the countries listed above will be required to pay by money order, certified check, or Western Union money transfer.

To pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee, you will need to provide the following information, so be sure to gather any required forms before beginning the process:

• Your name, address, and date of birth
• Your email address
• Your country of birth and your country of citizenship (if different)
• The School Code listed on your Form I-20
• The SEVIS Identification number provided on the Form I-20

Because you must bring proof of payment to your visa interview appointment (a step you’ll take later in the process) it is important that you print your payment confirmation page. It is also important to keep in mind that the I-901 SEVIS Fee is different from your visa application fee, which you will be required to pay later in the application process. 

4. Identify the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Once you have paid the I-901 SEVIS Fee, you can begin preparing for your visa interview. Since this interview must take place at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country, you should start this preparation by identifying the location that is closest to you. Depending on your country or region, the embassy may be a significant distance from your home, so you should choose a location that you know you will be able to reach for your interview.

You should start by identifying the location because you will need to list this embassy when you submit your DS-160 Application Form (below). If you don’t know which location you will be applying through, you may make a mistake while completing your form which you will then need to correct.

You can search the U.S. Department of State’s database to find the embassy closest to you. 

5. Complete the Form DS-160 Visa Application. 

The Form DS-160 is also known as the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form, and it is something that you must complete in order to apply for your student visa. Your answers on this form must be submitted in English.

It is critical that you answer each question on this form completely, accurately, and truthfully, or else you may need to correct your file, adding additional time to the process that you may not have. For this reason, be sure that you have gathered your passport, a visa photograph, and your completed Form I-20. 

Other information you may be required to supply (depending on the agreement your country has with the U.S.) includes your travel itinerary, the dates of your last five visits to the U.S. (if you have visited in the past), and/or a record of your other international travel history. 

As noted above, it is on this form that you will indicate which embassy or consulate you plan to visit to conduct your visa interview. 

After completing the Form DS-160, be sure to print the barcode page, as you will need to bring this with you to your visa interview. 

6. Schedule a visa interview at your chosen consulate or embassy.

Upon completion of the Form DS-160, you should contact the U.S. embassy or consulate which you indicated on the form and schedule your visa interview. Because wait times can vary substantially from country to country and from embassy to embassy, it is important to contact them as quickly as possible to ensure that you will be seen. Depending on how far you will need to travel to attend the interview, you may need to make travel arrangements, so be sure to factor this into your budgeting and scheduling.

After scheduling your interview, you will be required to pay the Visa Application Fee. Some embassies will require you to pay this fee before attending your interview, while others may not. If your embassy does require you to pay beforehand, be sure to bring proof of payment to your actual interview. This fee is $160 . 

7. Attend the interview.

The visa interview is the final procedural step involved in obtaining your student visa, and it is also one of the most important. 

When you attend the interview, be sure to bring any forms or documentation which may be required, including your:

• printed DS-160 barcode page
• printed I-901 SEVIS Fee confirmation page
• visa application fee payment confirmation page

Specific embassies may require additional documents, so be sure to determine what else you may be required to bring before your visit.

And what about the interview itself? 

“The questions that they are going to ask you will mainly be focused on your reason for wanting to enter the United States,” says Allison Hogan, assistant director of customer service for the Office of Global Services at Northeastern University. “They might ask general questions about what university you will be attending, what degree you will be pursuing, where you will be staying, and so on, so that they can better understand your purpose for traveling to the U.S.”

The more detailed and accurate you can be in your answers, the better: “The more information you are able to give, the faster the process will go and the less likely you are to hit roadblocks along the way.”

Following the interview, if you have been approved for a visa then you will be required to leave your passport with the embassy, who will later return it to you with your student visa. 

8. Pay the visa issuance fee. 

Depending on your country and the reciprocity agreement that it has in place with the U.S., you may be required to pay an issuance fee in order to finally receive your visa. This fee, if required, will vary by country. 

Some Final Advice to Help You Through the Process

While the process of applying for your U.S. student visa can be a long and sometimes complicated process, there are steps that you can take to increase your chances of success. 

Hogan specifically recommends that applicants practice patience.

“If you really want to study in the U.S. and earn a particular degree, you should absolutely go for it,” she says. “Just make sure that you are being very careful in following all of the steps and instructions so that the process goes as quickly as possible.”

She notes that applicants should be sure to make use of all of the resources available to them from the college or university that they will be attending, which can be substantial.

“We are constantly learning from our students about what the process of applying for a visa is like and how it differs from country to country,” she says. “ With everything we learn from our students, we are better equipped to guide people through the process.”

Jessica Perolio, director of Academic Services and Student Support at Northeastern’s Office of Global Services , agrees, adding, “Because we have such a large international student population, there is a really robust structure of resources that Northeastern offers to students. We are able to assist students in areas beyond the application process like finding housing, adjusting to academics and cultural differences, and other aspects of transitioning to American student life.”

Are you an international student interested in studying at Northeastern University? Contact the Office of Global Services to speak with a member of the team who can answer your questions.

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Studying in the US on an F-1 Visa

The United States boasts some of the world’s best universities and attracts top talent from all over the world. Nowadays, almost one in five graduate students in the US are international. But navigating the moving process as an international student can be challenging. This article is aimed at international PhD students who will be applying for an F-1 visa (the most common student visa). It goes through the pre-departure process, arrival in the US, and setting up life in America.

I-20 and F-1 Visa

There are two documents that students need to be able to enter the United States as a student. The first is an I-20 . This official three-page document is issued by your university and endorsed by a school official. It acts as proof of admission from your university and proof of your ability to pay schools fees and living expenses in the US. your I-20 also has your SEVIS identification number on it. It is valid for the length of your admissions offer, usually five years. The institution will mail you your I-20.

Once you receive your I-20, you can apply for your student visa. The first step is to pay the mandatory SEVIS I-901 fee . SEVIS is the student tracking system. The fee is $200. You will not be issued a visa if you do not pay the fee. Print the payment receipt and bring it with you to your visa interview and to the US Port of Entry the first time you enter the country as a student.

The F-1 visa is the most common student visa and is issued to international students admitted to a full-time academic program at a US institution. With the exception of Canadians, all international students need to obtain an F1 visa for full-time PhD studies in the US. To being the application process, you must fill out the DS-160 visa application online . Be as accurate as possible. Print the confirmation page with the barcode at the end of the application. Then you must schedule a visa interview at the US embassy/consulate in your home country. Please check the website of the US embassy/consulate in your home country for the most up to date information about the interview process.

F-1 visa holders may seek on-campus work that does not exceed 20 hours a week. After the first year they may apply for certain types of off-campus work with the authorization of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Bringing Your Family

Students who plan to bring dependants (a spouse and/or children only) with them to the US must include their dependant’s information in the admissions applications. The student will also have to submit additional proof of financial support ($7,200 for a spouse and $3,600 for each child). The university will send their F-2 Dependant I-20s with your I-20. Your dependants should then accompany you to your local US embassy/consulate to apply for their F-2 visas when you apply for your F-1 visa.

It is important to note that spouses and dependents may not work in the US with an F-2 visa and are not eligible for a social security number. They may do volunteer work as long as they are not compensated and are doing a job normally done by volunteers. If they want to seek employment they will need to obtain the appropriate work visa.

Entering the US

Your program start date is printed on your I-20. You may enter the US up to 30 day prior but no later than that program start date. When you arrive at a US airport, you must clear customs at a US Point of Entry. You will have to show the following documents: valid passport with the F-1 stamp, original I-20, SEVIS fee payment receipt, and financial documents consistent with what is stated on your I-20. When you enter the US you will also be assigned a I-94 number. You can obtain a print out of your I-94 number from US Customs and Border Patrol . You will need it this number to apply for a social security number and open a bank account.

Anytime you leave and re-enter the US as a student, you must remember to bring your passport with a valid F-1 stamp and your original I-20 form with you. The signature on page 2 of the I-20 (the “travel signature”) must be less than 12 months old on the date you re-enter the US. If is nearing expiry, you must have it resigned by the appropriate school official before you leave.

Social Security Number (SSN)

The American Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number used to identify citizens, permanent residents and temporary residents. You must have a SSN to work in the US. Most PhD students will have to apply for a SSN at some point during their degree as many American programs require PhD students to work as teaching assistants.

To apply for a SSN you must go in person to a Social Security Administration office near you . You will have to bring a completed social security card application, your passport with the F-1 stamp, your I-94 number , I-20, and proof of employment. In one to two weeks your social security card (with your social security number on it) will be mailed to you.

A SSN is also necessary for filing a tax return. If you are not eligible for a SSN but have an American source of income (eg. from a fellowship, stipend, or scholarship) you will have to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This number is only for tax filing purposes and does not authorize you to work. Your university payroll services or international student office can help you apply for an ITIN and will usually expedite the application process. It takes seven weeks to receive an ITIN.

Landlords, cable companies, and cell phone providers will ask for a SSN to run a credit check to determine how large of deposit you must pay for housing and their services. International students without a SSN will still be able to secure housing and access these services but they will have to pay a higher deposit first.

Health Insurance

Health care in the US is very expensive and the US government does not provide health insurance. It is crucial that international students obtain health insurance. Most universities require all of their students to have health insurance coverage. Most universities offer health insurance plans for their students at a lower cost that other private insurance providers. Depending on the level of funding you are offered from the university, they might pay the cost of your health insurance. Make sure you read your policy very carefully to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered. Note that student health insurance does not normally include eye care or dental coverage.

As you are going to be living in the US for several years you should open an American bank account. This will make it easier for you to do things like pay rent and for your university to pay you. This big four American banks are Chase , Bank of America , Wells Fargo , and Citigroup . To open a bank account, you should bring your passport with the F-1 stamp, I-20, and I-94 number to the nearest branch of your chosen bank. It is not necessary to have a social security number to open an American bank account.

It is a good idea to have a few weeks worth of living expenses available in your home bank account as it may take some time to get your American bank account and salary deposit set up. Check with your home bank before you travel to make sure you will be able to use your bank card abroad.

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PhD Students

Georgetown’s classrooms and academic life benefit from an exceptionally talented community of international doctoral students. In addition to the many University resources available to our international Hoyas in F-1 and J-1 status, the PhD website and Frequently Asked Questions provide targeted information to help students maintain legal status and maximize immigration benefits as they pursue their unique academic and professional objectives.

Considerations for F-1/J-1 PhD Students

    f-1 status.

• The majority of Georgetown doctoral students study in F-1 status.
• Students who apply for F-1 work authorization after completion of the dissertation remain in F-1 status while waiting for their authorization to be approved and throughout the 12-month OPT (and when applicable the 24-month STEM OPT) period.
• Doctoral students in F-1 status receive a Form I-20 for 7 years. The document is always shortened when a student defends earlier than expected.
• It is the student’s obligation to contact OGS if the source of funding changes during the period. OGS does not search out the student to present new documentation at the end of the five-year funding period.
• Extending beyond the 7-year period is rare, however, if there are extraordinary circumstances beyond a student’s control, the justification must be presented by the dissertation advisor in writing and the student must submit sufficient funds to cover the length of the extension.
• OGS only keeps F-1 records and related documents for 3 years following completion of studies or any post-completion work authorization period. It is essential that students safeguard their immigration documents with their other government documents.
• F-1 students must enroll in the normative credit requirement on record with the GSAS for their program of study. As part of that normative courseload requirement, only one course can be taken online. Students in the dissertation phase of their studies must enroll in a section of thesis research that makes them full time.

    J-1 Status

• Very few Georgetown students study in J-1 status. It is essential that students review the  F-1/J-1 Comparison Chart (PDF)  prior to selecting J-1 status.
• J-1 status is part of the Department of State’s  Exchange Visitor Program .
• Students in J-1 status are expected to take advantage of the many opportunities available to interact with Americans and learn about the United States.
• J-1 students must submit an evaluation at the end of every internship opportunity.
• Eligibility requirements and restrictions are available on the  Admitted F-1 and J-1 Students page.
• J-1 students cannot research or study abroad outside the United States and leave their SEVIS record active. This means that to return to the United States after each research or study experience would require a new immigration document and a new SEVIS 1-901 Fee. It may also impact the number of months available for Post-Completion Academic Training (AT).
• J-1 students must be authorized for each and every on-campus work position as well as all off-campus work positions. J-1 dependents are allowed to apply to the government for work authorization.
• Some J-1 students have a two-year home residence requirement before they can change their immigration status to a more permanent immigration status.
• J-1 students must enroll in the normative credit requirement on record with the GSAS for their program of study. No online courses may be counted toward the full-time courseload.
• Health insurance is required for all Exchange Visitors and their dependents. The insurance must meet the U.S. State Department’s  health insurance requirements .

    Renewing the F-1/J-1 Visa

• Students are not obligated to renew an expired visa if they do not intend to travel outside the United States. While pursuing a full course of study and making normal progress toward degree, students may remain in the United States with an expired visa stamp.
• All visas must be renewed at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside the United States. If you would like to renew the visa prior to its expiration, the Embassy or Consulate will generally accept an application to renew a visa that is expiring within 6 months.
• OGS recommends renewing the visa in the student’s home country to avoid any distress if there is a delay in processing. At the time of the consular interview to renew the visa, the consular officer will ask to see updated funding documents from either Georgetown University or the student’s personal or family funds. Bank statements from family members must be accompanied by a support letter from the person listed on the bank account.
• Students must be prepared to reiterate their nonimmigrant intent at each visa interview.
• OGS recommends bringing a letter from the department confirming the student is making normal progress toward degree completion if renewing a visa after year 5.
• OGS recommends bringing an unofficial transcript to show full-time enrollment each semester.
• Some students wish to renew their expired visas in Canada. Students must check the Canadian website to see if a visa is required to enter Canada as a tourist for the interview at the US embassy. They must also check the U.S. Embassy in Canada website to see if visa applications are considered by citizens of the student’s country.

    Work Authorization

• All off-campus paid and unpaid positions require work authorization prior to the start of the internship/training.
• All GU-funded students with service obligations need a Social Security Number (SSN).
• All first-year students who do not have an SSN but have been awarded a Georgetown non-service stipend will need an ITIN for taxes. To apply for an ITIN, you should wait to file your federal tax return via Sprintax (promo codes available from OGS mid-February to mid-April). Sprintax will assist with preparing your ITIN application in tandem with your federal tax return. Please review our Tax Website for more information .
• Students with a non-service stipend are not permitted to work on-campus, in paid or unpaid positions.
• Students with a service stipend are restricted to a  combined total  of 20 hours per week, for all on- and off-campus positions.
• F-1 PhD students may work on campus without any special authorization and are limited to 20 hours per week during required academic terms. During summer vacation, there is no limit to the number of hours a student can work on campus.
• J-1 PhD students must get OGS authorization to work in each and every on-campus position. Students are limited to 20 hours per week during the academic year and may work full-time during summer vacations.
• Work for any organization other than Georgetown requires authorization prior to beginning the internship/training. Working without proper authorization jeopardizes a student’s legal status.
• Work with an International Organization (IO) is a specific type of off-campus authorization available to students who wish to work with one of the approved international organizations. While an excellent alternative to CPT, the timing is always complicated because these applications are adjudicated by USCIS and take 3-4 months for approval. Students cannot work until they have the application is approved and they have received the Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Optional Practical Training (OPT) (3-4 month processing with USCIS)
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) (3-5 days in OGS)
• Work with an International Organization (IO) (3-4 month processing with USCIS)
• CPT is highly scrutinized by the U.S. government. Students may enroll in internship courses up to 3 times if new skills are being learned each time.
• Many doctoral students use CPT during the program of study if the work is required for completion of the dissertation. In these cases, there is no course enrollment and no limit to the number of times a student can apply for CPT. However, a justification letter is required from the dissertation advisor for each authorization period.
• Students are encouraged to keep detailed and accurate records of the work performed with each authorization to prove that it is integral to the student’s curriculum.

    Dissertation Research Abroad

• Students who wish to keep their F-1 record active and will be engaged in dissertation research abroad must report the foreign address and research dates to their IS Advisor within the first 5 days of each semester. The IS Advisor will report the research abroad in SEVIS. Students are responsible for making sure their I-20 Form has a valid travel signature at every entry to the United States. Travel signatures are valid for 12 months during the program of study. If a student needs a new travel signature while outside the United States, they must register and pay for a FedEx shipment to have the Form I-20 shipped.
• J-1 students must end their J-1 SEVIS record upon departure for any research or study abroad experience longer than 30 days.

    Living Out of the DC/MD/VA Area

• To keep their F-1 or J-1 record active, students who want to conduct dissertation research outside of this area should update their local off-campus address in MyAccess within 10 days of the change or the first 5 days of the semester.

    Dependents

• Students must submit sufficient financial documentation for each of their dependents.
• OGS requires 3-5 days to issue a dependent document when a dependent joins the F-1 or J-1 student during the course of study.
• Children born in the United States to F-1 or J-1 students have American citizenship and do not need a dependent Form I-20 or DS-2019.
• F-2 dependents can study part-time, can volunteer with a charitable or humanitarian organization but cannot be employed in any paid or unpaid capacity.
• J-2 dependents can study full time and apply for work authorization through USCIS. Once they receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), J-2s may begin employment.
• Dependents are generally welcome at all University events. If you are unsure, ask!
• The Premier Plan allows for dependent coverage. The coverage is excellent but expensive.
• If your dependent makes a final departure from the United States, contact OGS to end the SEVIS record to avoid any future problems entering the United States.
• J-2 dependents cannot remain in the United States if the J-1 will be out of the country for more than 30 days. 

    Completion of Studies/Graduation

• Many students complete their doctoral degrees before the end of the 7-year Form I-20 period.
• Graduation and completion are two separate events. Graduation is the administrative conferral of the degree. Completion is either the date of the defense or the date of submission of the dissertation to the Graduate School.
• Students must contact the IS Advisor when setting a defense date.
• Students who complete before the Form I-20 end date must report their early completion to OGS and OGS is required to shorten the immigration document accordingly.
• Students who complete their program early but have a teaching or research obligation as part of their funding in the semester they complete the dissertation, will be shortened to the end of that semester.
• Students who do not have a teaching or research obligation must be shortened to either the defense date or the dissertation submission date.
• Students must declare a completion of studies date to OGS before they will be permitted to apply for post-completion work authorization.
• Students in certain fields may be eligible for the  24-Month STEM OPT Extension . Review the list of applicable programs to determine eligibility.
• View the  PhD OP T Advising Timeline .

    How to Obtain More Information

• PhD specific sessions each semester
• Appointments with IS Advisor
• OGS Employment  page
• OGS Tax  page
• Study in the States  website
• Graduate Career Modules
• J-1 Exchange Visitor  page

Questions about other special PhD considerations? What happens after year 5?  What are my responsibilities if I must depart the United States for more than 30 days for research or study abroad?

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Students and Employment

ALERT: Please remember that photos submitted to USCIS must be unmounted and unretouched. Unretouched means the photos must not be edited or digitally enhanced. The submission of any mounted or retouched images will delay the processing of your application and may prompt USCIS to require that you appear at an Applicant Support Center to verify your identity.

If you would like to study as a full-time student in the United States, you will generally need a student visa. There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for persons wishing to study in the United States. These visas are commonly known as the F and M visas.

You may enter in the F-1 or M-1 visa category provided you meet the following criteria:

• You must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program
• Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement
• You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution
• You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency
• You must have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study
• You must maintain a residence abroad which you have no intention of giving up.

F-1 Student Visa

The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program. You must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate and your school must be authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.

M-1 Student Visa

The M-1 visa (Vocational Student) category includes students in vocational or other nonacademic programs, other than language training.

F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. After the first academic year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT) (pre-completion or post-completion)
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT)

F-1 students may also be eligible to work off-campus on a case-by-case basis as a result of special situations such as severe economic hardship or special student relief. M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies.

For both F-1 and M-1 students any off-campus training employment must be related to their area of study and must be authorized prior to starting any work by the Designated School Official (the person authorized to maintain the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)) and USCIS.

For more information on the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, see the Student & Exchange Visitor Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement  and the Study in the States Training Opportunities in the United States  pages.

In general, only noncitizens who have permission from DHS to work can apply for a Social Security number.  Find additional information about   International Students and Social Security Numbers (PDF)  on the Social Security Administration  website. 

Special Instructions

If you are interested in changing to F or M Student Status, see the Changing to a Nonimmigrant F or M Student Status page.

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Get a student visa to study in the U.S.

To study in the U.S. as an international student, you must get a student visa. Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, and if you can work while you study.

Types of student visas

F-1 and m-1 visas for full-time students.

The most common student visas are F-1 and M-1.

• F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies.
• M-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies.

J-1 visa for exchange students

The J-1 exchange visitor visa is for foreign nationals who have been approved to take part in work-and-study-based exchange programs. Examples include visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants. Learn about the educational programs that J-1 visa holders can participate in .

How to apply for, extend, or renew a student visa

Visit the Department of State’s website to learn more details about F-1 or M-1 visas and J-1 visas . Get information about:

• Eligibility rules
• How to apply
• Appointment wait times
• Application fees
• Extending your stay in the U.S.
• Student visa renewals

Can you work in the U.S. with a student visa?

If you have an F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa, you may be eligible to work in the U.S. But you may only qualify for work on-campus or at a job related to your studies.

• Learn more about employment for students with F-1 and M-1 visas.
• J-1 visa holders must contact their responsible officer to find out if they qualify for work outside their program of study.

LAST UPDATED: December 8, 2023

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Student Visas

Anyone who will be studying in the United States could be issued one of the three following visa types for international students: F1 Visa , J1 Visa or M1 Visa . You may be asking, “What visa do you need to work as an international student in the US?”. The F1 and J1 Visas allow for the possibility of employment but does not guarantee it. The M1 Visa, however, does not allow for the possibility of employment. We’ve broken down each of these three types of international student visas so that you can get familiar with them and how they will impact your life in the US.

Types of International Student Visas

Learn more about the F1 Student Visa

Learn more about the J1 Student Visa

Learn more about the M1 Student Visa

Living with your Student Visa in the USA

As you begin to think about funding sources for your educational and living expenses in the United States, remember that you cannot count on working in the United States unless you have been granted a teaching or research assistantship . Immigration regulations are very strict with respect to working while carrying a student visa, and when you submit evidence of your financial resources, you cannot rely on potential income. The income on which you base your application must be assured, and it must be equal to or exceed the costs of the first year of your studies.

Careful long-term and short-term planning is necessary to ensure that you will have a rewarding educational experience in the United States. If you are realistic about your financial needs, you will be better able to enjoy the exciting academic and cultural experience of living and learning in the United States.

Be sure to start exploring your funding options and establish your budget well before you plan to start your studies abroad!

Create a Budget

The International Student scholarships database contains frequently updated information about scholarships, grants and assistantships. If you are considering a research or teaching assistantship, please search the available options.

Applying for your Visa

When putting together your application for a student visa, you will first need to research the admission policy for your university. Keep the following items in mind:

Every school has different academic eligibility criteria. Your school will tell you what their requirements are. If you are still in the process of researching different schools, you can use the USA School Search to research general academic standing and test scores.

You will need to show that you can support yourself without having to work.

You may have to show proof of health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance.

Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.

Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

For detailed application information and help preparing for your visa interview, please visit the F1 Visa Application process section.

Your arrival at the United States Port of Entry

You need to be aware that even if your visa is granted, it does not guarantee your entry into the United States. It is ultimately up to the CBP [Customs and Border Protection] to let you into the United States. It is also the job of the CBP to determine how long you may remain in the United States.

At the port of entry, a CBP official validates Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure, which notes the length of stay permitted. This will be a small white card issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon your entry to the U.S. The form I-94 is your permit to stay in the U.S.

How Long You Can Stay in the US After Graduation

Per US immigration law, students with F visas must leave the US within 60 days after the program end date that is listed on Form I-20. Students with J and M visa status must leave the US within 30 days after the program end date that is listed on Form I-20. However, if you wish to extend your stay in the US, you may request a visa extension through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Before requesting a visa extension, we recommend exploring your visa options after graduation .

How You Can Change Your Visa Status

While living in the US, your plans may change and you might have to change your visa status. If you wish to do this at any time while living in the US, you do not have to apply for a new visa. You must request to change your nonimmigrant status through USCIS. We recommend that you notify your Designated School Official (DSO) about your desire to change as it’s important that your school is aware of any changes to your nonimmigrant status, and your DSO can help you through the process.

After determining your student visa situation, you should carefully examine the healthcare options available to you while studying in the USA. Learn More

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