Student (F-1) Visa

Apply for F1 Visa or Change of Status (CoS)

Understanding the Difference between F1 Visa & F1 Status

F1 Student Visa

Allows international students to enter the United States as a full-time student in an accredited college, university, seminary, or other academic institutions or in a language program.

F1 Status

If you are already in the United States on a different visa and would like apply for the opportunity to study as a full-time, you may consider a change of status to F1. This does not change your visa, but grants you the legal status to study full-time.

For both cases, students will need to apply to an SEVP accredited school to obtain an I-20.

What is the I-20?

The I-20 is an important document that confirms you’ve been accepted into a U.S. educational institution. Shepherd School of Language is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant students.

Application Process

Once you have completed these steps, we will review your information for admission and send you an I-20 and acceptance letter to you within 3-4 business days.

Important Notes on Your U.S. Student Visa and I-20

I-20 Program Start Date:

Important: You cannot enter the U.S. after the start date listed on your I-20.

When Can You Enter the U.S.?

You may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20.
For example, if the I-20 start date is May 31, you can arrive between May 1 and May 31.

How to Apply for a Student (F-1) Visa

After applying at SSL

To apply for an F-1 student visa, go to the U.S. Consulate in your country. Make sure to bring at least the following documents:

  1. Your I-20 from Shepherd School of Language and the SEVIS Fee receipt.

  2. Proof of Financial Support
    Provide a bank statement (yours or your sponsor’s), or evidence from the person or organization funding your studies.

  3. Proof of Intent to Return
    Show that you plan to return to your home country after your studies. This could be:

    • Evidence of a job, school enrollment, or family in your country.

    • Proof of property or business ownership.

  4. Proof of Academic Status
    Bring your high school or university transcripts to demonstrate your commitment to studying.

  5. Study Plan
    Write a letter explaining why you want to study in the U.S., what you plan to achieve (like learning English), and what you’ll do after your studies

Studying with a Tourist (B-2) Visa

A tourist visa (B-2) is primarily for tourism. However, you can take part-time, casual study on a tourist visa, but your main purpose must remain tourism.

Studying with Other Types of Visas

If you have a different type of visa, consult with your legal advisor or SSL for guidance on your study options.

SSL Advising and Support

SSL is authorized by federal law to enroll non-immigrant students and issue I-20s for F-1 visa applications.
Our Designated School Officials (DSOs) offer general guidance at no extra cost. They can assist with:

  • School transfers

  • Status changes

  • Advising on your rights and obligations as an international student

Our DSOs will do their best to help you navigate your journey and comply with U.S. laws.