Studying in the U.S.

Hundreds of thousands of people come to the United States from around the world to study and improve their skills. Numerous programs provide a wide variety of learning opportunities.

We recognize that recent changes in visa law have made it more difficult to get a visa in a timely manner. We are working to improve security clearance procedures to protect our borders and, at the same time, facilitate legitimate travel. The security clearance procedures delay the issuance of visas in some cases. Apply for your visa as soon as you have completed your preparation to study in the United States.

We made changes in various procedures to make sure that both U.S. citizens and visitors are safe. Two new measures allow us to know that you are following your education program. Registration after arrival in the U.S. tells us that you are following the terms of your visa. The SEVIS program makes it easier for you, the school, immigration officials and the embassy or consulate where you apply for a visa to make sure you are in lawful student status.

There are three types of student visas:

• Academic Studies (F visa) For people who want to study or conduct research at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Academic Studies as an Exchange Visitor (J & Q Visas) For people who will be participating in an exchange visitor program in the U.S. The "J" visa is for educational and cultural exchange programs; the "Q" visa is for other international cultural exchange programs.
• Non-Academic or Vocational Studies (M Visa) For people who want to study or train at a non-academic institution in the U.S.

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