F-1 Student Visa Guide 2025 – TRW Law Firm
Your Legal Companion for Studying in the United States from Bangladesh and Beyond
🌟 What is the F-1 Student Visa?
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for the purpose of full-time academic study at a SEVP-approved institution.
This visa opens the doors for international students to enroll in universities, colleges, seminaries, conservatories, and language programs across the U.S.
Important: The F-1 visa is not for vocational training (which requires an M-1 visa) and does not provide permanent residency.
✅ F-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an F-1 visa, you must:
- Be accepted into a SEVP-approved school in the U.S.
- Enroll as a full-time student
- Be proficient in English or enrolled in courses leading to proficiency
- Show financial capability to support your education and living expenses
- Demonstrate strong ties to your home country (e.g., property, family, job offers)
- Reside outside the U.S. when applying for the visa
TRW Law Firm provides pre-admission eligibility assessments and F-1 documentation support.
📖 The F-1 Visa Application Process
Step 1: Get Accepted by a SEVP-Approved School
Your chosen U.S. academic institution must issue a Form I-20 confirming your acceptance and program details.
Step 2: Register in SEVIS
You will be entered into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee ($350).
Step 3: Complete Form DS-160
Submit the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application with:
- Passport details
- Education background
- Personal history
Print the confirmation page for your visa interview.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the $185 USD non-refundable visa application fee.
Step 5: Schedule a Visa Interview
Book an interview with the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka or your country of residence. Visa issuance for new students can now begin 365 days before your program start date.
Note: You must enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your program begins.
🚪 Visa Interview Preparation with TRW
You must bring:
- Valid passport (6 months beyond intended stay)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS payment receipt (Form I-901)
- Form I-20 (issued by your school)
- Passport-size photo
- Proof of financial support
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Standardized test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, etc.)
- Evidence of ties to Bangladesh (property, family, job, etc.)
TRW Law Firm provides personalized mock interviews, document review, and tailored preparation guides.
🏦 Can My Family Accompany Me?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may apply for F-2 visas.
- F-2 spouses cannot work
- F-2 children may attend school in the U.S.
- Each family member must receive their own Form I-20 from your school
💼 Can I Work While on an F-1 Visa?
On-Campus Employment
- Allowed during first academic year (up to 20 hours/week)
After First Year: Off-Campus Options
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- STEM OPT Extension (for qualified graduates)
📆 Changing Schools or Extending Stay
F-1 students may transfer to another SEVP-certified institution or apply for program extension under certain conditions. TRW handles all SEVIS coordination and re-issuance of Form I-20s.
🤝 Can I Stay in the U.S. After Graduation?
Yes, through:
- OPT / STEM OPT extension
- Applying for H-1B or other work visa
- Pursuing further study
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen and adjusting status
TRW can guide you through post-study visa options and transitions to permanent residency.
❓ F-1 Student Visa FAQs
Q: How early can I apply for the F-1 visa? You can apply 365 days before your academic program begins.
Q: Do I need to pay SEVIS fees for dependents? No, F-2 dependents do not pay SEVIS fees.
Q: Can I travel during breaks on F-1? Yes, but ensure your Form I-20 is endorsed for travel by your DSO.
Q: Will I owe taxes if I work on-campus? Possibly. TRW can connect you with U.S. tax experts for F-1-related filing.
Q: Can I apply for a green card directly? Not through F-1, but options include employment-based visas, family sponsorship, or adjustment after marriage.
🌐 Why Work With TRW Law Firm?
- ✅ Experienced in student visa services for Bangladeshi applicants
- ✅ Document vetting and SEVIS guidance
- ✅ Visa interview coaching by former consular advisors
- ✅ Post-graduation visa transition strategies
✨ Ready to Begin Your U.S. Study Journey?
Let TRW Law Firm help you apply with confidence.
🔗 Book Now: https://booking.tahmidurrahman.com
🌐 Website: www.tahmidurrahman.com
📧 Email: info@tahmidur.com | info@trwbd.com
📞 Phone: +8801708000660 | +8801847220062 | +8801708080817
TRW Law Firm – Bangladesh’s Leading Advisors for U.S. Student Visa Success