Many students choose to study in the United States for its world-class universities, diverse campuses and connections to global employers. However, if you want to study in the US, you need to do more than just secure a place at a university; you need to apply for the right student visa. For most full‑time students, this will be either an F-1 or an M-1 visa and understanding the difference can help to ensure your application is accepted the first time.
Why Students Study in the US
In the US, there are several leading universities, colleges and specialist schools, covering everything from business to creative arts and engineering. Students currently living in the UK are drawn to the flexible degree structures, extensive campus facilities and graduate career opportunities, as well as the American way of life.
To study in the US, you will need an offer from a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which ensures that institutions accepting students from overseas comply with all federal rules and regulations. You then need to apply for the appropriate visa. Choosing the correct visa category is essential, as it affects your course options, the length of your stay, and what you can do while in the US. For example, you may be able to participate in short recreational courses that do not count towards an academic certificate on a B visa; however, there are strict rules around studying during a tourist visit.
The vast majority of students will require either an F-1 or M-1 visa. For new students, these visas can be issued 365 days before the start date of a course. However, you can only enter the US on a new student visa up to 30 days before you are due to start studying. If you are currently enrolled at a SEVP-certified institution and continuing your studies on a student visa, there are fewer restrictions, and you can enter the US at any time.
F-1 Visa for Academic Study
The F-1 student visa is for full‑time academic study at an SEVP‑approved school, college or university. It typically covers university and college programs, from undergraduates and postgraduates to doctorates, as well as elementary and high schools, and other academic institutions, including recognised language training programs. To qualify, you must usually:
- Have an offer from an SEVP‑approved institution for a full‑time course of study that provides a degree, diploma or certificate.
- Submit Form I-20 A-B and Form DS-160.
- Prove you can fund tuition and living costs for the duration of your program.
- Demonstrate that you have a residence in the UK and intend to return after your studies.
It is important to note that in many cases, students with an F-1 visa are not able to work off-campus during their first year of study. You may be eligible for on‑campus work and, in specific circumstances, authorised practical training linked to your field of study.
M-1 Visa for Vocational and Technical Training
The M-1 student visa is designed for full‑time vocational or technical training rather than traditional academic programs. Typical M-1 routes include hands-on or certificate-based courses at established and recognised non-academic institutions. Key M-1 requirements include:
- Acceptance on a vocational or non‑academic programme at an SEVP‑approved institution.
- Submission of Form I-20 M-N issued for M-1 study.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs for the intended stay.
- Proof of a home residence and an intention to leave the US when training finishes.
M-1 visas are usually granted for up to 1 year at a time, and students can stay in the US for the length of the course of study plus an additional 30 days. Generally, students can only work if the employment is part of their studies or has been approved by the USCIS.
F-1 or M-1: Which is Right for You?
The right visa category depends on your study plans, long‑term goals and the type of school you are going to attend. For most UK students, F-1 is suitable if you are studying at a university, college, elementary school, high school, seminary, conservatory or another academic institution. It is also a good option if you want to progress from a language training program to a degree or transfer between academic institutions in the future.
M-1 may be more appropriate if you want to get a specific vocational or technical qualification at a non-academic institution. It is also better suited if you plan to stay in the US for a short period of time and are not concerned about visa extensions, transfers to other courses of study, or working in the US. Some important practical differences to consider include:
- Course type – F-1 is for academic and language programmes, and M-1 is for vocational and technical training.
- Flexibility – F-1 generally offers more flexibility to change schools or progress to higher levels of study, whereas M-1 transfers and extensions are more restricted.
- Work options – F-1 can allow limited authorised work in certain circumstances, and M-1 work options are usually limited to short practical training.
If you are unsure which visa is suitable for your course, a US Immigration attorney can review your offer letter, course content, and long‑term aims, and advise you on the most appropriate visa to apply for.
Student Visa Application Process
Although every application is different, most F-1 and M-1 application processes are similar.
Apply to a SEVP-Approved Institution
When looking at where to study in the United States, check that the institution is SEVP‑approved and that the course aligns with either the F-1 or M-1 category. Before applying, check entry requirements, start dates, tuition fees and anything specific required.
Receive a Form I‑20
Once you have been accepted, your chosen institution will issue a Form I‑20 confirming your course details, costs and visa category (F-1 or M-1). You must review this document carefully, as consular officers use it when assessing your application.
Pay the SEVIS and Visa Fees
You will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and have to pay the SEVIS I‑901 fee, as well as the non‑immigrant visa application fee for form DS‑160. Keep all payment receipts, as these are required for your interview.
Complete the DS‑160 Form and Book your Interview
Complete Form DS‑160 online, selecting the correct visa category and US Embassy or Consulate. Book a visa interview and prepare your supporting documents, including passport, photograph, I‑20, academic records, financial evidence and proof of your ties to the UK.
Prepare For the Visa Interview
During the Embassy or Consulate interview, you must show that you are a genuine student, have sufficient finances and intend to leave the US after your course of study. Clear, consistent answers about why you chose your course, how it fits your career plans and how you will financially support yourself can make a real difference.
For those resident in the capital city, working with a US Immigration Lawyer in London can help you avoid common mistakes. If you have never applied for a US visa, a US attorney in the UK, may be an indispensable solution for UK residents seeking to navigate the US visa process. They aim to ensure your paperwork is complete and coherent, and help prepare you for the types of questions you may be asked. With some professional advice and guidance, you are more likely to be granted a visa.
How Solutions in Law can help
At Solutions in Law, we specialise in US visas for UK applicants and have many years of experience guiding students through F-1 and M-1 applications. Our expert visa team can help you determine what type of visa you need, check your eligibility and evidence, and create a strong, well‑presented application. We, equally, support individuals and institutions across the globe in their quest to procure US visas.
If you are planning to study in the US and want some tailored legal advice from a US Immigration Attorney in London, contact Solutions in Law today to discuss your plans and next steps. Speaking with an experienced US Immigration Lawyer in London can give you peace of mind before you commit to a course or file your visa application.