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UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Visa Q & A

posted by LIM College

alves_010815If there is one thing that I can say about being an International Student at LIM College, it’s that we are never alone on this journey. The college has a great team that supports us from the moment we apply and even after graduation. So I asked Frankie Solorzano, Coordinator of International Student Services, a few questions about visas and the whole process international students need to go through.

CA: What are the steps for applying for an F-1 student visa when you want to study at LIM College?

FS: There are several steps needed when applying for an F-1 student visa. (Go to this page for more information from LIM.) Once a student receives the I-20 application form from us you need to:

  • Pay your visa fee
  • Obtain acceptable photographs
  • Complete your online DS 160 visa application
  • Schedule an appointment for your visa interview        

Schedule an appointment for your visa interview        

(You can find more information about student visas on the U.S. government website.)

CA: How long does the visa process usually take?

FS: The visa process can take several days or a month or longer depending upon the U.S. embassy or consulate in the student’s home country. A prospective student needs to plan accordingly. A prospective student needs to plan accordingly

CA: Who can be the student’s sponsor?

FS: A student may have several sponsors, however, I suggest that a student has at least one sponsor from their home country.

CA: What does an individual need in order to get a U.S. student visa?

FS: A student who is looking to obtain a student visa must apply and be accepted to LIM College. Once accepted, the student will need to complete an I-20 application.

CA: What does the U.S. immigration system allow a student visa holder to do in the country?

FS: The U.S. immigration system allows student visa holders on an F-1 visa to study.  It is their primary focus but they’re also eligible for certain benefits such as on-campus employment, CPT (Curricular Practical Training), and OPT (Optical Practical Training).

CA: For how long can an individual hold a student visa?

FS: A student may hold his/her visa status until the length of the program listed on their I-20. This is called  “duration of status” or D/S.

CA: Can a student leave the U.S. and then return to the U.S. with a student visa?

FS: A student may leave the country and return to the U.S. on an F-1 visa as long as he or she has a valid visa and a travel signature from their International Student Advisor.

CA: What are the limitations for the student visa?

FS: I would say there are limitations with regards to employment. According to U.S. immigration rules, the sole purpose of students on an F-1 visa is to study.

 

If you would like more information about how international students can apply to LIM College, go to this page.

 

I hope this was helpful and if you are applying, good luck with your visa!

Topics: international students, Brazil

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