F-1 VISA OVERVIEW

What Is the F-1 Student Visa?

Welcome to the Intensive English Center (IEC)! We are thrilled that you are considering joining our academic community. Navigating U.S. immigration can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the basics of your visa is the first step toward a successful journey.

The F-1 is a non-immigrant visa issued by the U.S. Department of State for academic study at SEVP-certified institutions. It allows full-time enrollment at the college or university, with certain work and travel privileges. While you are here, the school maintains students' immigration records through the federal SEVIS database. Please remember that students are responsible for knowing and following all F-1 regulations.

Key Terms Glossary

Immigration paperwork uses a lot of specific terminology and acronyms. Use this quick-reference guide to understand the most common terms you will encounter during your time as an F-1 student:

Term	Definition
SEVIS	Student and Exchange Visitor Information System - the federal database that tracks your immigration status.
DSO	Designated School Official - the IEC staff member authorized to sign your immigration documents.
I-20	Your Certificate of Eligibility - the official document that authorizes your F-1 status.
SEVP	Student and Exchange Visitor Program - the DHS program that certifies schools to enroll international students.
I-94	Arrival/Departure Record - the electronic record of your legal entry to the U.S.
D/S	Duration of Status - most F-1 I-94 records show D/S, meaning you can stay as long as you are in a valid status.
EAD	Employment Authorization Document - the card issued by USCIS that authorizes off-campus work.
COS	Change of Status - the process of changing your current visa category to an F-1 visa while remaining inside the United States.
Grace Period	The 60-day period after program completion during which you may remain in the U.S. to prepare to leave.

Your Two Parallel Statuses

As an international student, it is critical to understand that F-1 students simultaneously hold an academic status AND an immigration status, and that immigration rules can override university academic policies.

For example, while a university academic policy might allow a student to drop a class halfway through the semester or take a break from studying, doing so without prior authorization from your DSO could immediately violate your federal immigration status. Always consult with the IEC before making any changes to your academic schedule.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and is not legal advice. U.S. immigration laws and regulations are subject to change. Students are responsible for complying with all federal immigration requirements. The IEC staff are not immigration attorneys. For complex immigration issues, students may wish to consult a qualified immigration attorney. Always verify current requirements with the IEC and with official U.S. government sources (USCIS, ICE/SEVP, DHS, Department of State).