Can Axis Group
USA F-1 Student
Visa Programme
The F-1 visa is the primary route for international students to pursue full-time academic study at a SEVP-certified U.S. school, college, or university — with optional practical training available after graduation.
Other Benefits
Access to the world's largest concentration of top-ranked universities and a defined route to post-study work experience.
Largest Choice of Institutions
Over 4,000 SEVP-certified colleges and universities across every academic discipline and specialisation.
Top Global Rankings
The U.S. is consistently home to the largest number of top 100 globally ranked universities.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Up to 12 months of work authorisation in your field after graduation, extendable to 36 months for STEM graduates.
On-Campus Work
F-1 students can generally work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term.
Flexible Study Options
From community colleges to Ivy League universities, students can choose a route that fits their budget and goals.
Research & Innovation Hub
Unmatched access to research funding, laboratories, and innovation ecosystems across STEM fields.
Dependants Eligible
Spouses and children under 21 can accompany F-1 students on F-2 dependant visas.
Process Timeline — F-1 Student Visa
Admission to a SEVP-Certified School
Receive Form I-20 & Pay SEVIS I-901 Fee
Complete Form DS-160 Online Application
Pay Visa Application (MRV) Fee & Schedule Interview
Attend Visa Interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Visa Issuance & Entry to the United States
Cost Overview
| Cost Component | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | $350 (F-1 applicants) |
| Visa Application (MRV) Fee | $185 |
| Form I-20 Issuance | Issued by school; no separate USCIS fee |
| Tuition & Living Cost Evidence | Varies by institution; shown on Form I-20 |
| Health Insurance | Often mandatory via the institution; varies by school |
| Additional Costs | Travel, accommodation deposit, standardised test fees |
United States of America
The United States hosts the world's largest and most diverse higher education system, from small liberal arts colleges to major research universities, spanning every field of study and every region of the country.
With strong graduate employment outcomes, generous Optional Practical Training work rights, and unmatched research funding, the U.S. remains one of the top destinations globally for ambitious international students.
What Our Clients Say
Thank you Can Axis for guidance and giving me helpful advice to migrate to my favourite destination country. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking reliable and compassionate immigration assistance.
I had a great experience with Can Axis Immigration. Thank you to the entire team for your support — I am so happy to have received my visa. Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this journey.
I tried a lot of agencies that process visas, and a lot of them provided unnecessary information — it was a real struggle. Not until I spoke with the Can Axis team, they were of great help.
Everything You Need to Know
Form I-20 is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, issued by your SEVP-certified school once you're admitted and have shown you can cover tuition and living costs; it's required to apply for the F-1 visa.
The SEVIS I-901 fee ($350 for F-1 students) funds the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System and must be paid before your visa interview.
F-1 students can generally work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term, and full-time during official school breaks, subject to school authorisation.
Optional Practical Training allows F-1 graduates to work in the U.S. in a job related to their field of study for up to 12 months, extendable to 36 months total for eligible STEM degree graduates.
You can apply for an F-1 visa up to 365 days before your course start date, though visa appointment availability varies significantly by location and time of year.
Ready to Study in the USA?
Speak with our Dubai-based advisory team about U.S. university admissions and the F-1 visa process — in confidence, with no obligation.