The American K-12 Education System

The American education system is extraordinary because of its variety of educational institutions.  

There are many ways international students can pursue high-quality education at all levels. Before they do, it’s important to understand the framework and expectations of the American education system.

Public schools in the US are operated differently across the country because each state sets its own educational standards. Public schools, however, are influenced by three levels of government: federal, state, and local. They are also funded by tax revenue from all levels of government.

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is a department of the American government that validates, disperses, and monitors federal financial aid for education. They also collect data on schools in the US, share their research, bring awareness to important sector challenges, work against discrimination, and encourage equal access to education.

The ED’s International Affairs Office helps to guide the department and provides advice to the US Secretary and senior government officers if there are challenges that could affect US education, or its policies and programs.

Even though the federal government gives out and monitors financial aid for education, each state handles its own education budget. In each state, the governor, state legislature, state school board, and sometimes the state's department of education share in the responsibilities of running their education system.

Each state is responsible for some of the following services:

• Provide and allocate funding for public schools
• Set state standards for assessments and curriculum
• License all private and public schools in the state
• License teachers and other staff in public schools
• Oversee services for students with disabilities or other special needs
• Elect and appoint some of the local and state school board members

The public can get involved with their state's education system through elections and by communicating their concerns to the local board within their district. Local school boards handle the policies and administration of their public schools, and their board members are educated community members who volunteer their time. There are also opportunities for parents to become directly involved in their children’s education through Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Home and School Associations (HSAs).

Primary and Secondary Education

Public Schools

A typical school year in the US begins in late August or early September and ends in late May or early June, depending on the structure set by the state and each school. Some schools follow a two semester system, whereas others follow a three trimester system.

Most children in the US attend public school. Public school teachers must meet state-set education and training qualifications, and curriculum is set at the state and local school board levels. Public schools are generally more diverse than private schools, and are required by law to provide services to students with learning disabilities.

International students may attend a SEVP-approved high school, but for only up to 12 months. After that time, they must either return home or transfer to a different SEVP-approved private school.

Private and Faith-Based Schools

Some private schools in the US are faith-based, often affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. Other private schools aren’t affiliated with a specific religion and are secular, or have a more comprehensive connection with various religions. Private schools aren't required to meet state testing requirements, which can give teachers more flexibility with the curriculum, but make it harder for schools to show how their approach excels.

Some parents enroll their children in private schools because they desire a very high standard of education and achievement, wish their children to have a faith-based education, or to pursue specialized programming in academics, fine art, or athletics. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assesses private and public school students in core subject areas, and has found private school students score better in almost every subject.

In the 2023/24 school year, the national average private school tuition rate was US$12,690 per year, but average tuition can vary from US$4,000 to US$30,000 per year. Some private schools also require students to wear uniforms, which are an extra expense. Many private schools offer scholarships, so look into options available to international students.

Boarding Schools

There are over 300 boarding schools across the country. Day boarding schools offer programming to students who live nearby and who then return home after classes. There are also more traditional boarding schools which provide a residence for students on campus.

Most boarding schools are co-educational, but boys and girls live in different residences. The more traditional boarding schools support student learning and assessment through test-based curriculum that might include Advanced Placement options or International Baccalaureate programs. Other boarding schools prepare students for college-level work and focus more on student-centred learning.

Homeschooling

Homeschool has become an increasingly popular choice among American families. In the 2021/22 school year, around three million American children taught at home by their parents, or in a communal classroom environment. However, not all states support homeschooling. 

Curriculum and Learning Environment

In the US, the public education curriculum is set by the state and local governments. The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was the general law for K–12 education from 2002–2015. It mandated yearly reading and math tests in public schools. It also required public school teachers to meet higher standards.

NCLB was replaced by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015. ESSA modified and updated parts of NCLB, like giving individual states more freedom to decide when standardized tests would be given. States could also include other measures of student and school success in their reports to the government, and develop their own teacher evaluation system.

These pieces of legislation aim to provide equal education opportunities and greater transparency about how each state's schools perform. ESSA helps to ensure all schools provide a standard level of education, publishes the funding each state spends per student, and offers State Report Cards(opens in a new tab). These "online report cards" profile each state's reading, writing, math, and science performance, graduation rates, teacher qualifications, and more.

Elementary School (Primary School)
In elementary school, which often spans from kindergarten to grades eight or nine, students are typically assigned to one classroom with one teacher for the entire school year. Some school systems offer classes from kindergarten to grade five or six, and middle school classes from grades six or seven to grade nine. Grade ranges in each school vary by school board or state.

In primary school classes, the same teacher teaches all subjects. Specialist teachers may be brought in to teach subjects like gym, music, and art.

There can be a lot of variance in the subjects children learn because the curriculum is set by the state and local governments. 

In general, students learn core subjects including math, English, science, and social studies. Particular emphasis is placed on math and English because the numeracy, writing, and reading skills that are developed in these subjects are transferable to other subjects like science and social studies.

Middle and High School (Secondary School)
As students attend middle and high school, they’ll move from classroom to classroom and have a different teacher for each subject. Teachers usually teach only one or two subjects to different classes of students throughout the day. Students may also have a personalized timetable of classes.

There’s typically a short class at the beginning of the day called homeroom, which is used for taking attendance, listening to daily announcements, and other administrative activities. 

Students take mandatory classes plus one or two elective classes every year. Most high school students must have a certain number of credits in order to graduate and often need a specific number of credits in specific subjects. One year-long class (math, English) is usually equal to one credit.

A typical high school curriculum may look something like this:

In most states, high school students are placed on specialized tracks which have different curriculums. Each track prepares students for different career or educational paths after high school. Some tracks, such as the Academic or College Prep Track, may include additional coursework.

Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate

High schools may also offer Advanced Placement (AP) programs and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes, which are more academically challenging. 

There are over 30 AP classes(opens in a new tab) students can take, which generally offer university-level instruction and testing while students are still in high school. The AP program at each school is audited by the College Board to ensure students meet the program's standards and requirements.

The College Board is a not-for-profit organization that develops standardized tests and curricula to aid students in their transition from high school to college. This involves standardized tests and programs such as the SAT, and BigFuture, which help students find colleges and programs.

IB offers four internationally recognized programmes, each at a different stage of the K-12 education system worldwide. They are focused on developing students’ intellectual, personal, social, and intercultural skills. 

There are currently over 1,920 IB schools in the US. Only schools that undergo a rigorous authorization process can offer IB. In most cases, IB-level classes can also be used to fulfill high school graduation requirements. A first-year college or university credit may be awarded for AP or IB coursework.

IB and AP classes can also help students qualify for scholarships. Both programs offer advantages for students preparing for post-secondary studies because taking these courses shows a student's depth of curiosity and desire to challenge themselves.

High school students also prepare to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) during their junior year, which is a common admissions requirement for most colleges.

Most schools also offer extracurricular activities, such as sports, theatre productions, chess club, foreign language study, and other organized student clubs that take place outside of school time. Getting involved in extracurricular activities is a good idea since colleges often look for it during the admissions process.

Students can also gain practical skills in their areas of interest, whether by speaking in debate club in preparation for pre-legal studies, or entering robotics competitions in high school to prepare for engineering degrees.

Graduation and Commencement

In the US, the end of high school is marked with a graduation ceremony, and many schools host a prom for the graduating seniors. 

A prom is a formal or semi-formal celebration held in the school gymnasium or other venue that includes a dance and sometimes a meal, where students dress in formal attire like suits or dresses.

After graduating from high school, students have a number of options for continuing their education. They can pursue college or university, community college, or technical and career training depending on their interests and career goals. In 2023, about 62% of high school graduates enrolled in college. We’ll take a closer look at these options in the next section.

Students should always double check with their school administration to make sure they’ve met the graduation requirements and post-secondary admission requirements if they’re applying to college or university. Most of the time, only students who have graduated from high school can apply to college. There are some community colleges that have programs that allow students to finish high school or get their GED certificate. Approximately 87% of students in the US earned their high school diploma within four years of starting ninth grade.

Levels of Post-Secondary Education

The American higher education system is influenced by three levels of government: federal, state, and local. 

Although each state is primarily responsible for their own education system, the federal government is indirectly involved by providing regulations and policies. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is the part of the federal government that validates, delivers, and monitors federal financial aid for education. ED also collects data on US schools, brings awareness to important educational challenges, and enforces equal access to education. In 2021, about 12.7 million American undergraduate students received assistance from ED through grants, loans, and work-study options.

Students interested in post-secondary study in the US can choose from programs like:

• Associate degrees
• Bachelor’s degrees
• Master’s degrees
• Doctorate degrees
• Undergraduate and graduate certificates
• Non-degree programs

Although the terms college and university are sometimes used interchangeably, colleges, community colleges and universities are distinct things in the US. 

A key difference between them is that a college only offers programs at the undergraduate level. Community colleges tend to offer two-year degrees, where colleges offer four-year degrees. Universities may offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Community colleges usually offer two-year associate’s degrees, but increasingly some community colleges offer bachelor’s degrees as an extension of an associate's degree. These bachelor’s programs usually take four years in total to complete. Eligible community college students may also transfer to another university or college to complete the last two years of a four-year undergrad degree.

Community college four-year bachelor’s programs are typically designed to directly prepare students for their careers. Popular degree program options support high-demand areas like information technology, nursing, electrical engineering, business, finance, and marketing.  This type of degree is increasing in popularity, so more community colleges are offering bachelor’s degree programs. Some of these colleges are operated by the state, where others are operated by both the state and the local district.

Types of Post-Secondary Institutions

Community College

Community colleges typically offer programs that include one to two years of general studies, two-year associate degrees, certificates, and vocational degrees. Some community colleges may offer bachelor's degrees. Sometimes, credits earned at community colleges can be transferred to four-year college programs, so students can earn a full bachelor’s degree. Classes tend to be smaller, and the tuition rates are lower than at a state college or university.

Vocational Schools

A vocational school is a great option for earning certificates in a skilled trade or in a highly-skilled vocation. Vocational students receive career training for jobs such as a chef, medical assistant, electrical technician, dental hygienist, automotive tech, nurse, paralegal, or truck driver. 

When considering a vocational school, make sure it’s reputable. You can do this by researching:

• Who the instructors are
• What kinds of technology are used
• What the campus is like
• The program’s achievement or graduation rate
• Job placement success rates and opportunities for graduates
• Student approval rates for the program.

Also, ensure the vocational school has the appropriate accreditations and licenses. Some programs must meet specific requirements determined by a regulated professional agency.

Tip: Each state has its own licensing agencies, but some schools are licensed by the state's Department of Education.  To find reputable vocational schools, refer to the Database of Accredited Post-Secondary Institutions and Programs(opens in a new tab).

Institutes of Technology

Institutes of Technology offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs such as engineering, technology, applied science, and the natural sciences. These educational institutions often have state-of-the-art technology that provides students with progressive experiences in laboratories and research facilities. 

State Colleges and Public Universities

State colleges typically grant bachelor’s degrees or higher. Some state colleges offer associate degrees as well. Many public universities are made up of groups of colleges where students can earn specific degrees from a distinct college within the university, which is why the terms college and university are sometimes used interchangeably. 

Students often begin their university studies as an undergraduate to earn their bachelor’s degree, then move on to post-graduate studies with a master’s or doctoral degree. Graduate schools provide advanced academic learning and are usually an extension of most universities that offer bachelor's degrees.

Depending on a student’s previous education in their home country, some of their credits might be transferable. We’ll discuss transfer credits in more detail later in the course.

Schools of Theology (Seminary Schools)

Schools of theology are specialized schools for pursuing religious education. They offer post-baccalaureate professional degrees, and academic degrees that prepare students for a career in ministry, teaching, or as a researcher in theological fields. 

Some seminary schools offer doctorate degrees, like a Doctor of Theology (ThD). The Association of Theological Schools and the Commission on Accrediting support schools of theology by providing resources and regulating the degree programs they offer. Each state may fund religious schools indirectly, while the federal government remains unaffiliated.

Program Types and Designations

The 2023 Open Doors Report(opens in a new tab) noted that there were over 850,000 enrolled international students in the US over the 2022/23 academic year. This marks an 11.5% improvement over the previous year, reinforcing that the United States' status as a top international education market is still strong.

Graduate studies at American universities is a popular choice for international students. Over 860,000 students each year in the US earn master’s degrees each year.

Associate degree

Associate degree programs are usually offered by community colleges or institutes of technology.

They give students a broad academic foundation, and more focused classes in a specific area of study. Associate degrees typically take two years to complete, compared to four years for a bachelor's degree, so tuition feels are often lower.

Students in these programs must earn at least 60 credits to complete their degree. Many students complete 20 3-credit courses to do so. This is half as many credits as a bachelor's degree. So, some students use an associate degree to prepare for a general studies bachelor's degree. Others transfer to another college or university for their third and fourth years of study. Some community colleges are directly affiliated with local universities, which allow students to easily transfer into a four-year degree program.

Students can also move right into the workforce after completing their associate degree in fields such as web development, dental hygiene, electrical engineering, radiation therapy, or avionics.

Bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree is often the first post-secondary education students pursue. International students can take preliminary classes to help them reach the appropriate freshman levels in English and math.

To meet the institution's minimum English language proficiency requirements, international students may have to complete a first-year English program before enrolling in undergraduate studies. If students' skills don’t meet the requirements, schools may offer an ESL program either directly or through an approved third party. 

Proof of English language proficiency can depend on multiple factors such as the student's nationality, their home country, the language of their prior education, and the English language proficiency test scores. 

Students who complete 20 to 60 credit hours of an eligible associate degree can sometimes transfer these credits into a bachelor's degree program. The level of academic difficulty increases in undergraduate studies, and students require a total of 120 credit hours to graduate (including the 60 associate degree transfer credit hours, if applicable). 

Students will study many subjects in their first two years. Classes may include English, mathematics, history, social sciences, natural and physical sciences, or the humanities. In the final two years of their program, students specialize in their chosen field of study.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees are two of the most popular choices. Because of lab time and work-integrated learning opportunities like internships, engineering, business, and science degrees may take longer to complete than arts degrees.

Graduate/Doctoral Degree

After students have completed a bachelor’s degree, they may pursue graduate education (like a master’s or doctorate degree). Some programs require students to write a thesis or dissertation, which are research papers on a specific topic that can take multiple years to finish.

• Master's programs are generally about 30 credit hours, or two years long.
• Doctoral (PhD or EdD) programs are usually about 60 class hours and take five years or more to complete. Students write a comprehensive exam prior to beginning a dissertation for their doctorate.

Both types of graduate degrees require students to complete coursework and research. All the classes required for a master’s or doctorate program are specifically related to the student’s area of academic focus with very few elective options. A doctorate is the highest degree a student can obtain in the US.

Online Collage Degree

International students can get a college or university degree online from an American academic institution. This option is increasingly popular for mature students with families, or for professionals who want to continue working while studying. Classes use methods like live and pre-recorded lectures, videos, posted class notes, and online readings.

Many students choose online programs so they can learn from field-leading instructors and earn respected credentials without leaving their home country. Earning a degree online can be less expensive, without additional expenses like travel tickets, student visa fees, or housing. 

Before studying online, ensure the institutions and programs are properly accredited. Accreditations should be listed on the institution or program’s website. Accreditation organizations ensure programs meet quality standards.

Refer to the U.S. Department of Education (through DAPIP(opens in a new tab)) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation(opens in a new tab) (CHEA) to see which organizations are validated accreditors.

Colleges

The US is the world’s top destination for international students, and has more college and university campuses than any other country. In the 2022/23 academic year, just over one million international students were enrolled in US colleges and universities.

Community Colleges, Institutes of Technology, and Religious Schools

American community colleges provide students with flexible and affordable academic opportunities. Benefits of attending a community college include state-of-the-art learning facilities, access to modern technology, higher levels of student engagement, and programs that offer support for career planning, tutoring, and student wellbeing.

Institutes of technology provide specialized training in most Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)-related fields. They offer research-intensive programs that lead to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree.

These institutes are different from technical or vocational colleges, which are more trades-focused with shorter associate degrees.

Many of the top post-secondary institutions in the US have a long religious history. These schools may have one of over 50 different religious affiliations including Christian, Catholic, Jesuit, Methodist, Presbyterian, Jewish, Episcopalian, and Islamic.

These institutions offer programs preparing students to work in skilled trades, and grant two-year associate degrees in fields like electronics, the culinary arts, or automotive technology.

Universities

Postgraduate Studies in the US

Over 460,000 international students pursued their postgraduate studies in the US during the 2022/23 academic year. 55% of international students enrolled in STEM fields. Business and management, fine and applied arts, and health sciences were other top fields of study.  

These are some of the graduate degree programs available at American universities:

• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• Master of Science in Engineering (MS)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering (PhD)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Finance (MSF)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

International Students in the US

International students come from all over the world to study at academic institutions across the US. The top American schools for international students in the 2022/23 academic year were New York University, Northeastern University - Boston, Columbia University, Arizona State University, and the University of Southern California.

In the 2022/23 academic year, the most popular programs for international students were in math and computer science, engineering, and business & management. Some of the other top fields included:

• Social sciences (history, psychology, public administration)
• Physical and life sciences (biology, biomedical studies, science technology)
• Fine and applied arts (architecture, visual arts)
• Health professions (pharmacy, nursing, residency programs)

US University Rankings

Of the top 30 universities on Times Higher Education (THE)'s World University Rankings 2024(opens in a new tab), the US is home to 19. It is proof that the US' postsecondary education system remains highly regarded and globally competitive. We'll take a closer look at these top universities below.

THE's ranking was based on 18 indicators across 5 areas: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry, and international outlook. 

We'll also take a look at the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings in the table below, under the "US Ranking" column. These rankings, most recently done in 2022, look at over 800 universities in the US, and rank institutions based on factors like student employability, graduation rates, student debt repayment, access to campus resources, teaching quality, and campus diversity.

The US also has some of the best public and private secondary schools in the world, so both domestic and international students who graduate from American secondary schools are prepared for study at the college or university level. Students are also well-equipped to pursue vocational qualifications or go directly into the workforce.

American Institutions in Times Higher Education's 2024 World University Rankings

*Average tuition costs listed above don’t include fees, insurance, living expenses, or the cost of books. The tuition rate will vary based on the program and field of study. Always consult the institution’s website for the most up-to-date tuition amounts.

Many of the institutions listed above also offer substantial financial aid to domestic and international students. The amounts above are often higher than the price a student will pay to attend. Ask what options are available early in the application process, or use institutions' financial aid calculators (like this one(opens in a new tab) from Cornell University), as funding support will vary from student to student.

It's worth remembering that the institutions listed above are some of the most renowned in the world, and tuition is priced to align with that tradition of excellence. Tuition fees vary considerably across the US. The average yearly tuition fee for international students was US$26,290 in the 2022/23 academic year.

Unique Programs

Various colleges, universities, and other organizations approved by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) offer short-term programs that last 12 months or less. Some non-degree and certificate programs are part of these short-term program options and provide students with opportunities that specifically meet their personal academic, professional, and financial interests. Again, students should check directly with the university to find out what short-term programs are available.

Here are some short-term programs US universities may offer:

University Exchange Programs

An agreement between the US and an international university to provide an exchange opportunity where students may count coursework toward a degree program at their home university 

Professional Exchange Programs

An opportunity to accept an exchange from a diverse number of programs

Certificate and Executive Education Programs

Students can obtain skills in a specific field and earn a certificate to recognize their newly acquired skills. Or, working professionals can complete a graduate-level certificate program to further improve their skills.

Internships

An internship is a short-term work experience offered by an employer within a specific industry or specialization that relates to the student’s field of study. Students should check the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) website for short-term opportunities

Visiting Fellowship and Scholars

Doctorate degree holders can pursue research opportunities, while visiting fellows can audit graduate-level courses and do research

National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant)

One of the most unique programs in the US is the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, or Space Grant. Various colleges and universities across the US are part of a national group of higher education institutions who support science and engineering education and opportunities within NASA’s aeronautics and space projects.

The Space Grant national network includes over 850 affiliates from colleges and universities, industries, museums, science centres, and other agencies. These affiliates belong to one of 52 associations in every state.

Fellowships and scholarships funded by these 52 associations are available to students in STEM-related fields including science, engineering, and mathematics.

Pathway Programs

Pathway programs in the US make post-secondary education more accessible. They do this through providing English as a second language (ESL) or English as an additional language (EAL) education to international students whose language proficiency doesn’t meet the requirements for the program they want to enroll in. Pathway programs are usually one year long and often allow students to take both classes that count toward their degree along with required ESL classes.

Students who enroll in pathway programs affiliated with a college or university may also receive a conditional acceptance offer to the program they applied for (like Business or Computer Science). After the student completes the pathway program with an admissible grade point average (GPA) and language skill level, they may enroll in their desired program at the affiliate college or university.  

Pathway programs also give students more time to think about which field of study they’d like to pursue. These programs are a great way for international students to ease into a degree program and get used to life in the US.

 A year of preparatory study can boost international students’ confidence in classroom discussions, improve their academic performance, and help them feel more comfortable on or off campus. 

A Closer Look at Pathway Programs 

Academic Pathway Programs

Instead of focusing solely on improving an international student’s English proficiency, academic pathway programs also improve academic performance to increase the student's chance of admission. Students can grow their knowledge in a variety of subjects, such as the humanities, natural sciences, engineering, technology, life sciences, or business.

Many academic pathway programs prepare students for scoring well on entrance exams like the SAT, and on English language tests.

Academic pathway program options vary, depending on education level:  

Bridge programs

Bridge programs provide students with an academic foundation to help them transition into their first year of college or university. These programs can also help students with a two-year college or associate degree to improve their grades, so they can pursue a four-year degree or graduate degree. 

Many students take bridge programs to fulfill a conditional acceptance into degree programs, or to boost their chances of admission into a competitive program. Many US universities and colleges host their own bridge programs on campus or at affiliate institutions to streamline the transition to their degree programs.

Undergraduate pathway programs

Undergraduate pathway programs help students improve their academic performance and English proficiency to prepare them for pursuing a bachelor’s or associate degree. 

They often provide counselling services and cultural support, so international students can adjust to campus life in the US. Sometimes, students may earn credits toward their main degree during their pathway program. Once the pathway program is complete, students can begin studies in their second semester or year of their degree program. 

Graduate

Graduate students who need additional academic and English language proficiency before admission to a grad degree can benefit from a graduate pathway program (GPP). In a GPP, students can also complete credits toward their master's degree. This helps to ensure a smooth transition into their master’s degree program.

Online pathway programs

Online pathway programs are great options for students who’d like to prepare for a degree program, but who can’t physically attend classes in their destination country. These programs are especially convenient for international students who’d like to stay in their home country for an extra year, who have prior work or family commitments, or who’d like to save money on living expenses.

K–12 Admissions

Public high schools in the US that want to enroll international students must be certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

Public elementary schools in the US aren’t eligible for SEVP certification, but the dependent minor children of F-1 and M-1 international students can attend school at their suitable grade level.

To enroll in any school in the US, international students must have either an M-1 or F-1 student visa and a Form I-20. An M-1 visa is for students in non-academic or vocational programs, and an F-1 visa is for students in academic and English language training programs. Form I-20 is the proof of their legal nonimmigrant student status in the US. We’ll discuss visas in more detail later in this course.

Every certified school must have a Designated School Official (DSO) to oversee international student enrollments. DSOs are responsible for issuing Form I-20, registering students appropriately, and updating all student information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). 

Since public schools are funded primarily through property taxes in the US, international students are required to pay the full unsubsidized per capita cost for the year they’re enrolled. International students can only attend public secondary school (high school) in the US for up to 12 months.

Private elementary schools and high schools are eligible for SEVP certification, so international students with an F-1 visa may attend these schools too. Private schools charge tuition fees, which vary by institution. There’s no limit on how long international students can attend a private elementary or secondary school. 

International students must also prove they have the ability to pay for their education and living expenses while studying in the US. F-1 visa students aren’t eligible for government-funded financial aid, but schools may offer scholarships to them.

Below are some of the documents that can demonstrate evidence of a student’s financial ability:

• Family bank statements
• Documentation from a financial sponsor
• Financial aid letters
• Scholarship letters
• Student loan documentaiton
• Letter from an employer showing annual salary

Individual institutions may have specific document requirements. So, check with the institution's international student office before submitting any proof of financial ability.

F-1 high school students who are interested in continuing their education in the US after graduation can apply to a SEVP-certified college or university. 

Undergraduate Admissions and Accreditation Standards

Reputable private educational associations have developed criteria for accrediting academic institutions based on established standards. These private associations determine whether post-secondary institutions are functioning at a standard level of educational quality by assessing their programs and operations. 

As of 2021, the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognize trustworthy private accreditation associations and maintain a database of all reputable accreditation associations on their website. The U.S. Department of Education monitors this system by carefully reviewing each association and their individual standards.

Individual states have varying degrees of involvement in education regulation, but generally, post-secondary institutions operate with a lot of independence. To ensure a basic level of quality, the process of accreditation began as a way of peer-evaluating educational institutions and programs. Today, several national or regional private education associations exist.

Some of the functions of accreditation: 

• Verifying that an institution or program meets established standards
• Helping prospective students to identify appropriate institutions
• Determining the acceptability of transfer credits
• Identifying institutions and programs for the investment of public and private funds
• Creating goals to help improve weaker programs and stimulate raising standards among educational institutions
• Involving faculty and staff in institutional evaluation

To check an institution's accreditation status, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Post-Secondary Institutions(opens in a new tab).

Undergraduate Admissions

Academic Requirements

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Colleges and universities will assess students’ grades and their GPA during admissions. Traditional unweighted GPAs are scored from 0 to 4.0, while weighted GPAs are more complex and scored on a scale of 0 to 5.0.

Weighted GPAs allow for courses taken at a higher level (like AP or IB) to be worth a little more toward the student's final GPA. This means that a student in advanced courses can have a weighted GPA higher than the standard "perfect" 4.0.

SAT and ACT

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and the American College Test (ACT) are national standardized tests used for college admissions. International students may not be required to take an SAT or ACT. These are timed tests that are typically taken in the junior or senior year of high school in the US, and test students' reading, writing, and math skills.

English Language

To participate effectively in classwork and assignments, most post-secondary institutions require a high-level of English language proficiency. There are multiple test options for students that test students’ reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities. 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the most widely accepted proficiency test, but some institutions accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Duolingo.

Personal Essay

The personal essay is an important part of a student’s application. It’s a chance for students to explain why they want to study at the institution they’ve chosen, in the program they've applied for. 

Students can reflect on their extracurricular activities, hobbies and interests, work and volunteer experiences, and influential people that have impacted their decision.

Here is an example of an unweighted GPA conversion chart:

Graduate Admissions

Students applying to graduate studies must meet similar requirements as students in undergrad studies.

Graduate admissions requirements may include:

• Previous education with a strong GPA (often an undergraduate degree in a related field)
• A personal statement
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Academic references
• A research proposal, if applicable

Students applying to a graduate level program or professional program such as law school or medical school will need to take an admissions test. These exams are one of the primary factors that admissions officers look at when deciding whether to accept students into their programs.

Graduate admissions tests include:

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

The GMAT is a common admission test for students who are entering an Master's of Business Administration (MBA). It may also be used for admission to other business graduate programs. The GMAT assesses students’ verbal, mathematical, and analytical writing skills.

Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)

The GRE measures students’ ability to succeed at graduate-level studies. It looks at how well students solve basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry questions, write with a college-level vocabulary, and analyze data.

The GRE general test is adaptive, which means how well students do early in the exam can impact how hard later questions are.

Note: Most students take the GRE General Test. However, if a student is entering a grad program in Chemistry, Math, Physics, or Psychology, they may wish to take the GRE Subject Test instead.

Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)

The LSAT is a requirement for any students who are planning on entering law school. It's considered a good predictor of a student's first-year law school performance, and as of August 2023, may be taken at home or in a test centre.

The LSAT is a two-part test, with a writing and a multiple-choice component. It gauges students' reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning skills.

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

The MCAT is a standardized exam and admission requirement for prospective medical school students. The test is designed to test a student’s problem solving skills, critical thinking skills, and verify their analysis and knowledge of scientific principles including physical sciences and biological sciences.

Dental Admission Test (DAT)

The DAT is an admission test for students wishing to enter a dental education or dentistry program. It’s a multiple choice test which assesses students on their scientific knowledge, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning.

Some colleges and universities may accept applications on an ongoing basis, but most institutions have an early deadline (usually in December or January), and a regular deadline (usually in March or April) that students should pay attention to.

Application Deadlines and Processing Times

Understanding program deadlines can help ensure students prepare applications in a timely manner. 

Regular Decision

Most students apply to schools for the Regular Decision deadline, which is usually in early January. Under RD, students can apply to as many institutions as they want, and they’ll usually get their admissions decisions in March or April.

Early Action

Early Action deadlines are earlier in the school year—usually November 1 or November 15. EA applicants often hear back from the institution in December. Students who apply under EA can be accepted, rejected, or deferred.

Being deferred means that their application is moved to the regular applicant pool and will be reviewed again in the next cycle. In the US, some schools that are restrictive, and prevent students from applying to more than one college or university under EA.

Early Decision

Early Decision is for students who know exactly where they want to go. The ED application is a binding contract that students, their parents, and school counsellors sign. This contract states that the student agrees to enrol at the co-signing institution if they're accepted.

Important: If ED is chosen, students are expected to commit without seeing any commitment of financial aid from the institution.

If students apply via ED and are accepted, they will accept that offer and withdraw any other applications. Just like EA, the application deadline is typically on November 1 or 15, and students get their admission decisions in December. Some colleges may also offer ED II, which still involves a binding commitment, but the application deadline is in early January and students learn their results in February.

Rolling Admissions

Rolling Admissions are more flexible because they give students a window of time to submit applications. Some institutions may have a priority deadline, but they’ll still accept applications after that.

RA is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Students should still apply early because spots might fill up or become more competitive. The earlier students apply, the sooner they’ll hear back with an admission decision.

Application deadlines and processing times vary by institution. When applying, students should always confirm key deadlines with the school, so they don’t miss anything. With the exception of ED applicants, students have until May 1 (National College Decision Day) to accept an offer, submit their decision to the school, and make their tuition deposit payment.

US Student Visas

Students should visit the U.S. Department of State(opens in a new tab) website to determine which visa is most appropriate for them and to learn of any restrictions or additional requirements that are attached to the visa.

Key Takeaways

1. Only U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers and immigration lawyers can provide students with official immigration information.
2. Students interested in studying in the US should know that they must return to their home country after their studies. However, there may be opportunities for visa extension and post-study options for new graduates from eligible programs or professional fields of study.
3. The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is part of the Department of Homeland Security. It provides approval and oversight to academic institutions that are authorized to enroll F and M visa nonimmigrant students.

Student Visa Categories

M-1

F-1

J-1

The J-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for students who wish to take part in a work-study based exchange program in the US. Students must first apply and be accepted into an exchange visitor program through a designated sponsoring organization. 

Programs may include internships and trainee programs, au pair programs, college and university international exchange programs, Professor and Research Scholar programs, or teacher programs.

• The length of the visa depends on the length of the program.
• J-1 visa students are generally only allowed to work for their program sponsor.

Applying for a Student Visa

Once a student has been accepted into a SEVP-approved academic institution, and the student accepts their offer, they’ll be registered in SEVIS and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The school will then issue a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status) directly to the student.

After receiving their Form I-20, students may apply at a US Consulate or Embassy for a student visa (classes F or M).

According to the United States Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Policies and Guidelines(opens in a new tab), the student should have direct contact with the institution, and the institution must issue the Form I-20 directly to the student. 

The Form I-20 should only be handled by the student and should not be requested by, held, or delivered to any agent, recruiter, or other individual assisting the student. While recruiters or agents cannot request a copy of the student's Form I-20, if a student voluntarily offers a copy of the Form I-20 (without request or inducement), that should not violate the DHS' policies and guidelines. 

Form I-20 (Certificate of Nonimmigrant Student Status)

1. The Form I-20 is an important document because it proves that the student is legally enrolled in an eligible program of study.
2. To be issued a Form I-20, students will need to provide proof of financial support, such as bank statements, scholarships, financial aid letters, or documents from a sponsor.
3. Each academic institution can have a different minimum financial viability requirement for the Form I-20. Check with the institution during the application process or on their website. Program start and end dates are listed on the Form I-20, and the form is required whenever the student enters the US.
4. Students will also need to use their Form I-20 (if eligible) to apply for an American driver’s license or Social Security Number.
5. Spouses and unmarried minor children may accompany F-1 and M-1 students to the US. They will receive F-2 or M-2 visas(opens in a new tab). However, the primary student's academic institution must issue dependants their own Form I-20. When applying for the dependants' visas, the primary student must provide a copy of their F-1 and M-1 visa, and proof of relationship (like a marriage license).
6. Students applying for a J-1 visa (an Exchange Visitor visa) will receive a Form DS-2019(opens in a new tab) instead of a Form I-20. Form DS-2019s are issued by the J-1 student’s sponsor.

Visa Application Processing Times

1. Students should apply for their visa well in advance of their program start date. Processing times can vary depending on the student’s home country, personal circumstances, administrative processing, and individual applications.
2. M-1 and F-1 visas can be issued up to 365 days before the program’s start date(opens in a new tab), but the overall process can take six months or longer. Students may be able to expedite their interview date if there are urgent, unforeseen circumstances such as a funeral, medical emergency, or change to a program’s start date.
3. Students should check with their embassy or consulate for expedition procedures.
4. Even if they have their student visa, students may only enter the US up to 30 days before their classes start.

Once students have their Form I-20 and are registered in SEVIS, they can apply for their visa. The following is a brief overview of the steps in the student visa application process.

Students should check the U.S. Department of State website(opens in a new tab) for the most current and accurate information about the visa application process, appointment wait times, and required documents.

Step 1

Use Form DS-160(opens in a new tab) to apply online for a student visa. Students must complete the online visa application form and pay the application processing fee of approximately US$185. Students will also need to upload a photo with their application.

After completing the application, they must print a hard copy of the application form's barcode to bring to their interview.

Step 2

Students must schedule a visa interview appointment. US consulates and embassies will not schedule appointments for students. Check the country-specific embassy webpage for further instruction

Step 3

Students must provide the Form I-20 issued by the school if they’re applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa, or provide the Form DS-2019 issued by the student’s sponsor if they’re applying for a J-1 visa.

Step 4

Students must provide a valid passport. The student’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond their stay in the US.

Step 5

Students need to provide academic documents, including transcripts, diplomas, or degrees from past schools, and any standardized test scores required by the academic institution the student will be attending.

Step 6

Students require proof of funds and financial ability to pay for all educational, living, and travel costs for the duration of the program. The amount of funds required will be indicated on the student’s Form I-20.

Step 7

Students need proof of intent to leave the US after they’ve completed their program of study. For example, a job offer or documents from a company the student wants to work for in their home country can be used as proof of intent to leave. The birth certificates of a partner or family members in their country of citizenship, personal assets, or bank records can also be good supporting evidence of a student's intent to leave the US after studying.

Step 8

Most international students are required to attend a visa interview. Students aged 13 and under or 80 and over are exempt from interviews. Applicants who have previously held a nonimmigrant US visa (except B class) and who are applying within 48 months of their most recent non-immigrant visa's expiration may also have their interview requirement waived.

Interviews are held at the US Embassy or Consulate in the student’s home country. Students will meet with a consular officer to determine whether they’re qualified to get a student visa. Digital fingerprint scans are often taken at this time as well.

These are some typical interview questions:

• What are you going to study?
• Why did you choose to study in the United States?
• Why did you choose this institution?
• What have you done to prepare for this program?
• Can you tell me a little about your academic background?
• How will your studies be financed?
• What do you plan to do after you graduate?

Visa Approvals and Rejections

Application Approvals

Students can start planning their trip to the US once their visa is approved. Students with M or F visas may not enter the US more than 30 days before the program start date written on their Form I-20.

If their visa is approved, the student’s original documents will be returned to them after the interview. Students will sometimes be notified to pick up their passport, or it’ll be mailed back to them. Students may also have to pay a visa issuance fee depending on their nationality.

Students are also responsible for maintaining their visa status. This means they need to remain enrolled in classes full-time, go to class, and complete their program by the date on their Form I-20.

Note: a student visa does not guarantee entry into the US. It allows students to travel to the US, and request permission to enter. An U.S. Customs and Border Protection official has the ultimate authority to deny or confirm students' entry into the US.

Students must also obey all work-related rules, including the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) regulations. (These work options will be discussed in more detail later in the course).

Students should talk to the international officer or designated school official (DSO) at their school if they’re struggling to keep their status.

Students must have their Form I-20 with them every time they enter the US. They need the Form I-20 to re-enter the country even if they leave the US for vacation or during school holidays. It’s smart to keep all visa-related documents together with their passport, to prevent having trouble when travelling.

Application Rejections

If a student’s visa is denied, the reasoning is based on American immigration law. The reason(s) for denial will be provided to the student in the refusal paperwork.

Some of the most common reasons for denial are:

• Failure to prove strong ties to their home country and intent to leave after their studies
• Applicant does not qualify for the visa category
• Fraud or misrepresentation
• Health-related reasons
• Criminal or security-related reasons
• Failure to provide necessary supporting information or documents

In most cases, students can reapply in the future if their application is denied. With the exception of cases where the visa was rejected because the application was incomplete, students will have to submit a new application and pay the application fee again. Depending on the reason for refusal, students may have to present evidence of significant changes since their last application.

If a student’s visa is denied based on a permanent ineligibility, like misrepresenting the facts, fraud, or staying past the expiration of a previous US visa, the permanent ineligibility will cause this and any future applications to be denied on those grounds.

However, the student might be able to apply for a waiver of that ineligibility through the Department of Homeland Security. Waivers are discretionary, so there’s no guarantee a waiver will be granted. If the waiver is approved, a visa may be issued. Students can contact the consular officer at their country's US Embassy or Consulate, or check the U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consulate Affairs' website to learn about applying for a waiver.

Updating or Changing from a Student Visa

Key Takeaways

1. As long as the F-1 or M-1 visa student is enrolled in a full-time program and maintains their current visa status, they can apply for an F-2 or M-2 visa for their spouse or unmarried dependant child.
2. If the student has an F-1 visa, their dependant family members can apply for an F-2 visa. If the student has an M-1 visa, family members can apply for an M-2 visa.
3. Students must tell their school DSO that they’d like to bring their dependants with them, so the institution can provide each family member with their own Form I-20. Students must pay an application fee for each M-2 or F-2 visa application.

Limitations of an F-2 or M-2 Visa:

• Dependents are in legal immigration status as long as the student maintains their visa status throughout their program and any authorized OPT.
• M-2 and F-2 visa holders can leave and re-enter the US with proper documentation (like a Form I-20 and a valid passport).
• M-2 and F-2 visa holders can’t work and aren’t eligible for Social Security Numbers.
• Dependant children will be required to attend elementary and secondary school as required by the state they reside in. They can file for change of status to M-1 or F-1 after they graduate from high school if they want to study full-time. Adult dependants can study at an SEVP-certified school in the US as long as they’re enrolled in less than a full course of study. They can file for change of status to M-1 or F-1 if they want to study full-time.

Switching to a Different Visa or Extending a Visa

Student visas allow students to stay in the US for the duration of their studies, but not permanently.

• Generally, students with an M-1 visa must leave the US no later than 30 days after the program end date stated on their Form I-20.
• Students with an F-1 visa have to leave within 60 days of completing their program.

There are, however, a few ways students can extend or change their visa and stay in the US. For the most up-to-date information, refer to the U.S. Department of State's website(opens in a new tab).

OPT

The most popular option for students to extend their visa is participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT). The OPT program allows eligible F-1 students to work in the US for up to 12 months during or after their studies.

Students can extend their stay for an additional 24 months if they have completed an eligible STEM-related degree program through the STEM OPT extension(opens in a new tab). However, in all cases, the student's F-1 status will expire once OPT is done, and it can’t be renewed or extended.

Visa Renewal

Students can also continue their studies and renew their student visa. This is a popular option for students pursuing higher academic programs such as graduate school or a professional degree like law. Students interested in this option should talk to their campus international advisor or DSO about their options.

H-1B visa sponsorship

Another option students have to extend their stay in the US is through an H-1B visa sponsorship. An H-1B visa is a dual intent nonimmigrant temporary worker visa that allows individuals to live and work in the US, most commonly for three years, but potentially for up to six years. Students require employer sponsorship to get an H-1B visa. Sometimes, a student’s OPT employer will sponsor them.

Eligibility for H-1B visas varies depending on the student’s job and academic qualifications. H-1B visas are usually reserved for specialty occupations such as accounting and finance, engineering, IT, and medicine, and require applicants to have bachelor’s degree or higher.

Students can use this visa as a path to obtaining an employment-based Green Card. Check the USCIS website for more information.

M1 or F1

If students are already in the US on a visa other than a student visa, they may be eligible to switch to an M-1 or F-1 status if they want to study full-time at a post-secondary institution. Generally, they can apply to change their nonimmigrant status as long as they’re currently in the US with a nonimmigrant visa, and their nonimmigrant status is valid.

Also, they must not have violated the conditions of their current visa, nor have committed any crimes that would make them ineligible. Students need to file Form I-539 with USCIS online before their current visa expires, and pay any required fees.

Tuition and Living Expenses

Planning for ongoing expenses as an international student is vital. Expenses include more than just the visa application, travel costs, housing, and university application fees. One of the largest expenses for international students is tuition fees.

Tuition fees can vary depending on the region or city a student wishes to study in, their university or college, the program type, and the country they’re coming from. Tuition fees range from about US$5,000 a year to over US$60,000, depending on the institution type (university, community college, or technical institution), whether the student is at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, or whether it's a public or private institution.

International students paid an average tuition of about US$26,000 per year across the US in 2023 for public colleges. Private colleges are more expensive, but may have more scholarship options.

The following table shares the approximate undergraduate tuition fees for some of the most popular universities across the US that admit international students: 

*The average tuition costs listed above don’t include any additional fees, living expenses, insurance, or the cost of books. The tuition rate will vary based on the program and field of study. Always consult the school’s website for the most up-to-date tuition amounts.

Tuition fees can change on a yearly basis. Students can find current tuition fees when they apply to their specific university and program. Science and medical degree programs are often more expensive than social science, business, or art degrees. 

Cost of Living

1. The average annual cost of living for an international student in the US can vary from US$17,000 to over US$70,500 depending on the institution, its state, the local cost of living, as well as the student's own spending habits and budget. In 2024, living expenses ranged from US$1,000 to over US$2,500 per month. Generally, two-year colleges are less expensive than prestigious private four-year universities.
2. Texas is one of the most affordable states for international students and has a wide variety of options for higher education. Houston, one of the largest cities in Texas, is in the world's top 110 student cities and has a lower cost of living than many other large cities in the US. This state is also home to some of the world’s top educational institutions. 
3. Wyoming is another one of the most affordable states in the US for education and cost of living for international students. Its neighbouring states, including South Dakota, Nebraska, Idaho, and Utah, also have a more affordable cost of living. New York City is an exciting place for international students to live and study, but it’s also very expensive.

Many places in the US offer student discounts to save between 10% and 50%. Students should always carry their student ID card with them. Find student discounts on websites like ISIC, UNIDAYS, and Student Beans. 

Student discounts are offered at entertainment venues, restaurants, clothing stores, health stores, and beauty shops. There are also various online discounts on school supplies, books, technology, and travel.

Financial Assistance

Scholarships

Internal Scholarships

The best place to begin searching for a scholarship is the student’s academic institution. Some colleges and universities have scholarship programs that can support international students, and nearly all colleges and universities offer program-specific scholarships as an option for all students.

External Scholarships

Students can also apply to external scholarships for additional financial aid. These scholarships are awarded by the government or private organizations to foster international student growth and support.

Visit internationalscholarships.com(opens in a new tab) to explore more scholarship opportunities for international students in the US.

Teaching and Research Assistantships

Many schools offer teaching and research assistantships to eligible postgraduate students in their field of study. These assistantships provide valuable experience in the student’s field of study, and are often paid positions.

Loans

International students can’t access government loans reserved for US citizens, but private international student loans are available. Loans can cover the entire cost of a student’s education, minus applicable scholarships.

Unlike scholarships, loans must be repaid, but students can typically set up an affordable payment plan with reasonable interest rates.

For most loans, payment typically isn’t due until after a student graduates, so they can focus on their education while receiving financial aid.

Cosigners 

International students who don’t have a financial or credit history in the US may have to provide a cosigner to be approved for a loan. Cosigners must be American citizens with acceptable credit and income histories. By cosigning an international student’s loan agreement, the cosigner makes a legally binding agreement to repay the student’s loan if the student can't.

Some private lenders don’t require students with an exceptional academic record, career potential, or shorter study duration to have a cosigner. Cosigners should be someone the student personally knows and trusts with the capacity to repay the loan. Close friends and family can be good choices for loan cosigners. 

Student Loans Without a Cosigner 

If the student doesn’t know someone who can be a loan cosigner, they may be eligible for a loan that doesn’t require one. A loan that doesn’t need a cosigner can have various eligibility requirements. Generally, the requirements include the consideration of which school and degree program the student is enrolled in, whether they’re a full or part-time student, where their home country is, and what their career potential is. If the lender is happy with the required documentation and the student’s projected academic and career success, the student could obtain a no-cosigner loan agreement that fits their financial needs.

Repayment

Many private lenders provide flexible repayment plans which allow international students to make payments that are most affordable for them.

Repayment plans are an important component of a student loan to consider, so students should evaluate their financial situation critically before making any agreements. There are three primary repayment plans used by private lenders in the US:

• Full DeferralThis type of payment plan allows students to defer any loan repayment until six months after graduation from a four-year or shorter degree program.Students who choose a full deferral payment plan don’t have to make any repayments until after six months after their graduation. 
• Interest OnlyStudents who choose this payment plan only owe the lender interest while studying full time, for up to four years. Students must repay the principal loan amount once they graduate from their program or if they decide to study part-time instead of taking a full course load.
• Immediate RepaymentUnder this payment plan, interest and principal payments are due as soon as the student accepts the loan. Generally, this repayment plan isn’t recommended unless the student has a steady form of income to cover  loan payments while studying.

Additional Financial Assistance Resources 

• Visit the International Education Financial Aid website(opens in a new tab) to find more information about scholarship opportunities and loans available to international students who’d like to study in the US.
• Check out international organizations that provide scholarship opportunities and financial aid to international students globally. These organizations typically require students to be in their home country when applying for financial aid.

Here are a few examples of international organizations that offer financial aid to international students:

• Fulbright Commission
• The United Nations
• AMIDEAST
• Open Society Foundations

Work Options

International students can gain valuable work experience while studying in the US.

Working while studying can give students a competitive edge in the job market, hone their expertise in their field of study, and help them support themselves throughout their education. However, work opportunities are restricted by the terms of each student’s visa.

Working While Studying with an F-1 Visa 

The most common type of visa international students receive is an F-1 visa, which is the US non-immigrant student visa. Students with an F-1 visa are able to work in the US, but must adhere to the conditions documented on their student visa as well as all regulations and restrictions set in place by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Some visa conditions that allow students to work may include: 

• On-campus employment
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Economic hardship 
• Internship with an international organization

Students may work while they’re studying as long as their work complies with the student’s specific visa requirements. We'll explain all of those conditions in more detail below.

On-Campus Employment

On-campus employment is the most straightforward form of employment for F-1 students to pursue. On-campus jobs can come in many different forms. This employment is defined as: 

• Work on the premises of the student’s school in service of the school. It may include grant and assistantship-related work. 
• Work for on-campus firms providing service to the school’s students. For example, working in the campus bookstore, cafeteria, or print shop. 
• Work off campus that’s educationally affiliated with the student’s school. The work must be educationally integral to the student’s curriculum among other restrictions.

On-campus work comes with important regulations that students must follow.

F-1 students who’d like to work on campus must: 

1. Maintain F-1 status while employed. 
2. Work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week while class is in session.
3. Work up to full-time hours on holidays and study breaks, but only if they intend to enrol in the upcoming semester.
4. Not take away a job opportunity from a US resident. 

On-campus employment doesn’t require USCIS approval (like most off-campus employment for F-1 students), but many schools require students to ask permission from the school’s International Student Office before pursuing opportunities. If an on-campus job description is ambiguous based on these restrictions, always check with the school’s International Student Office before applying. 

Learn more about on-campus employment regulations on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website.(opens in a new tab)

Optional Practical Training

The Optional Practical Training(opens in a new tab) condition allows F-1 students to work off campus both during and after their studies. Just like on-campus employment, students must follow all USCIS rules and regulations. 

Students can apply for an OPT employment position after they’ve been enrolled in studies for nine months (or one academic year), and have received an Employment Authorization Document(opens in a new tab) (EAD, or Form I-766) from USCIS, which permits the student to work off campus.

To get this process started, international students should work with their campus' International Student Office and their Designated School Official (DSO), who can endorse the necessary forms and move the student's application forward. Once ready to go, students apply for an EAD by filling out and submitting a Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).

It's a good idea to get started early, as processing applications and issuing EADs can take up to four months(opens in a new tab).

While students don’t need a job lined up to apply for an EAD, they should prepare their application in advance and stay in close contact with their International Student Office to prevent any conflict with the student’s visa conditions.

If a student is eligible for OPT employment and receives an EAD, they can generally work under OPT for up to twelve months during and/or after their studies.

All OPT employment must be directly related to the student’s major, and any work completed before graduation is deducted from the amount of time a student is eligible to work after they’ve graduated. For example, if a student receives OPT authorization for up to nine months, and they complete six months of part-time pre-completion OPT, they’re only able to work for six months of post-completion OPT after graduation.

Types of OPT

F-1 students may be eligible for two types of OPT: 

Pre-Completion OPT: Off-campus work for a student who hasn’t graduated yet. Students who have completed at least nine months or one academic year of full-time study at a school certified by the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) can apply for pre-completion OPT. Eligible students can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and full-time when school is out.

Post-Completion OPT: Off-campus work for students who have completed their studies. Students must work full-time during post-completion OPT.

Learn more about applying for pre-completion or post-completion OPT here(opens in a new tab).

STEM OPT Extension 

If a student holds an eligible degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) from an eligible American academic institution, the student may qualify for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT. Eligible students must meet these conditions: 

• Their STEM degree is included on the STEM Designated Degree Program List(opens in a new tab) 
• The student is employed at an employer using E-verify
• The student received an initial OPT authorization based on the student’s STEM degree.

Learn more on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website(opens in a new tab).

Curricular Practical Training

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is similar to OPT because it provides students with practical work experience related to their major. However, CPT employment is integral, or built into to the study program.

The US government defines CPT as “alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or any other type of required [work] that is offered by sponsoring employers through cooperative agreements with the school.” In other words, work done under a CPT authorization is needed for the student to complete their academic credential, or gives them academic credit.

CPT must: 

• Be directly related to the student’s field of study
• Be integral to the school’s curriculum
• The training must be completed before the student completes their study program
• Be for one employer during the specified period of training
• Be secured (i.e. the student has been hired) before applying for CPT authorization

Important Note: Students who complete one full year of CPT become ineligible for OPT.

CPT authorization rules must comply with federal regulations and school policies for internships or experiential learning. In general, students need to meet the following requirements along with the specific conditions on their visa to be eligible for CPT: 

• The student must have been enrolled in full-time study for at least nine months or one academic year at an SEVP-certified school
• The student isn’t enrolled in an English as a Second Language program
• The student has already secured a CPT work opportunity

A student’s CPT application must be approved by USCIS and the college or university's International Student Office (ISO).

CPT applications can be complicated. So, we recommend the student work closely with their ISO to prepare their application. It is a great way to ensure their compliance with their F-1 visa and CPT conditions.

Learn more about applying for CPT here.(opens in a new tab)

Severe Economic Hardship

If an F-1 student encounters unexpected and severe financial difficulties, they may be eligible to work off campus without applying for OPT or CPT. USCIS evaluates  each economic hardship application individually.

The following are good reasons for applying for an off-campus work exception, per USCIS:

• Loss of financial aid or on-campus employment if the student isn’t at fault
• Large increases in tuition or living expenses
• Substantial decrease in the relative value of currency the student uses to pay for living expenses
• Unexpected changes in the financial conditions for a student’s source of financial support
• Medical bills
• Other substantial unexpected expenses

In addition to experiencing severe financial hardship, the student must meet these requirements: 

• Enrolled in studies for at least nine consecutive months or one academic year
• Be in good academic standing 
• Be unable to obtain on-campus employment, or the compensation from on-campus employment isn’t enough to cover the student’s needs

Eligible students can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time when school is on a scheduled break, like summer vacation. Authorization for this type of work is valid for one year. In general, exceptions cannot be renewed, unless the student qualifies for Special Student Relief(opens in a new tab) (SSR).

Learn more about off-campus employment based on severe economic hardship here.(opens in a new tab)

Internship with an International Organization

Students also have the opportunity to work with an eligible international organization while studying in the US. Students need an internship offer from a recognized international organization to gain work authorization from USCIS.

Once the student obtains a written offer, they can begin their application for authorization of employment. Here are the basic criteria: 

• The student has a written offer of internship from a recognized public international organization(opens in a new tab) that falls within the International Organization Immunities Act (organizations like the World Bank, or African Development Fund)
• The student must maintain their F-1 status and be enrolled in full-time studies
• The internship must be in the US

Getting an internship offer from an international organization takes time and effort, but there are many benefits(opens in a new tab). Students can work full or part-time for an international organization during their studies, and their work doesn’t have to be related to their field of study. It also won’t take away from a student’s post-OPT work opportunities, so they’ll be able to find employment after graduation.

Students are authorized to work for an international organization for up to a year at a time. They must reapply if they’d like to continue working at their place of employment.

Opportunities for Student Dependants (Spouses and Children)

An international student’s dependants include their spouse and children under 21. Spouses and children who have an F-2 or M-2 visa status aren’t able to work, but they’re able to study while in the US. Spouses or children over the age of 18 can study part-time at an SEVP-approved institution, and minor dependants under the age of 18 can study full-time at the K–12 level.

H-1B

This popular post-graduation pathway visa allows graduates to work in a specialty occupation, such as a Department of Defense (DOD) Researcher or Development Project worker, as a Specialty Occupation worker, or as a Fashion Model.

International students can apply for an H-1B visa(opens in a new tab) under the Specialty Occupation classification if they have a bachelor’s degree in a highly specialized field. For example, STEM graduates with specialized training are great candidates. Eligibility varies depending on the graduate’s occupation, but H-1B visa holders generally need to meet the following criteria:

• A US employer must sponsor the applicant
• The applicant must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent
• The job duties and the applicant’s education and work experience must be aligned

H-1B visa holders can generally work in the US for up to three years. However, H-1B visas may be extended to six years. H-1B visa holders' dependents may stay with them under H-4 visa status. 

EB-5 

The EB-5 visa, or Immigrant Investor Visa Program, is available to a foreign national who:

• Makes a one-time investment of at least US$1.8 million in a US venture identified as an EB-5 business project, or at least US$900,000 in a specific targeted employment area venture
• Plans to create or preserve at least 10 permanent full-time jobs for US workers

EB-5 program applicants are eligible for a Green Card and conditional permanent residency for themselves and their immediate family (spouse and married children).

EB-5 visa holders can work and study as permanent residents. Other benefits include:

• No restrictions on fields of study or work while studying
• Qualification for reduced in-state tuition fees at many universities
• Opportunity to apply for US citizenship after five years of conditional permanent residence
• Increased financial aid accessibility including loans and scholarships

To learn more about the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, visit the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website.(opens in a new tab)

Paths to Permanent Residence

The content shared below is provided as information only. Only a certified professional, like an immigration attorney, can provide immigration advice. Refer to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services(opens in a new tab) (USCIS) website for the most current information. 

International graduates who seek permanent residence (also known as a Green Card) in the US have a few different options. The most popular path is through securing a job offer. Every year, a set number of employment-based permanent residence visas(opens in a new tab) are available, with a defined percentage allotted to different countries. This means availability can be limited, depending on the student's nationality.

There are multiple employment categories students can be eligible for. Each applicant’s eligibility is based on their education, skills, and work experience. International students with OPT experience are well-positioned to apply.

Let's take a closer look at different employment categories for permanent residency: 

Priority Worker

This category includes applicants who: 

• Have advanced abilities in sciences, arts, education, or business fields
• Are athletes with national or international acclaim and recognized achievements in their field 
• Are outstanding professors or researchers
• Are eligible multinational executives or managers

Professionals

Applicants in this category need to hold an advanced degree or have an exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. The job offer requirement may be waived for certain applicants if it’s of national interest.

Skilled Workers

Applicants or their employers must petition for the applicant by obtaining a labour certification from the Department of Labour to file their Form I-140 for this category. If the Department of Labour has already determined there is a labour shortage in the applicant’s area of work, they won’t need this certification before applying. 

Employment Creation

Applicants who are making investments in a new business in the US may qualify under this category by filing Form I-526.

How to Apply 

According to USCIS, the applicant’s employer must file Form I-140 before the applicant applies for permanent residency by filling out a Form I-485. If the applicant is applying through the employment creation category (self-employment), they must file a Form I-526 before filing the standard Form I-485 for permanent residency.

Once the Form I-140 or Form I-526 has been approved and the I-485 has been processed, the applicant will receive the following: 

• Notice that USCIS received the application
• Request for biometrics if applicable 
• Request for an interview if applicable
• Notice of USCIS’s decision

Learn more by visiting the USCIS Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (I-140)(opens in a new tab) website.