Student visa · Antarctica to United States of America

M-1 Vocational Student Visa

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
Varies by embassy, typically 3-5 weeks
Fee
$755 USD
Validity
Duration of program up to 1 year, extendable up to 3 years total, plus 30-day grace period
Entry
Multiple entry

Eligibility

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be enrolled full-time in vocational or non-academic program at SEVP-approved institution.

    Includes
    • Vocational training
    • technical courses
  • Financial

    Must prove sufficient funds to finance studies and living expenses for entire visa duration.

    Minimum funds: Varies by program

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: 2x2 inches (51x51mm), color, white background, taken within 6 months. Head must be 50-69% of image height. Digital: 600-1200 pixels square, JPEG, under 240KB.

  • Bank statement

    Minimum balance: Varies by school and program length; Months required: 6

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements, sponsor affidavit, financial guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover tuition and living expenses for program duration

  • Admission letter

    Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application; Form url: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

  • Language proficiency

    Accepted tests: English proficiency meeting institute requirements or enrollment in English courses; Minimum score: Institution-specific

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Receive Form I-20 from SEVP-approved vocational school. School registers you in SEVIS.

  2. Fee payment

    Pay SEVIS I-901 fee of $330 (or $220 per some sources) online at fmjfee.com.

  3. Online application

    Complete DS-160 form online. Print confirmation page.

  4. Appointment booking

    Schedule and attend visa interview at US embassy or consulate.

  5. Interview

    Attend interview with all required documents including I-20, financial proof, and evidence of ties to home country.

  6. Processing wait

    Processing typically 3-5 weeks. May require additional administrative processing.

  7. Visa collection

    Collect passport with visa if approved.

Sign in to apply
This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.

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