Headman Law Group represents Student Visas — F-1, F-2 & M clients in New York — for finance, media, academia, and the arts. U.S. immigration law is federal, so we guide New York-area clients through the same proven process we use nationwide — most steps handled by video and secure document exchange, with no need to visit an office.
What Are U.S. Student Visas?
U.S. student visas are nonimmigrant categories that allow foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for full-time study. The F-1 visa is for students enrolled in academic programs — universities, colleges, high schools, and accredited language-training programs. The M-1 visa is for students in vocational or other recognized nonacademic programs, such as technical or trade schools.
Each F and M student begins with a Form I-20, a Certificate of Eligibility issued by a SEVP-certified school after admission. The student's record is tracked in SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, throughout the program. A spouse or unmarried child under 21 who accompanies an F-1 student may apply for derivative F-2 status (or M-2 for M-1 dependents).
F-1 status also opens limited work authorization tied to the field of study — Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during the program and Optional Practical Training (OPT) during or after it, with an extended period available to qualifying STEM graduates.
How We Help Student-Visa Applicants
From the first I-20 to a STEM OPT extension, we handle the filings and timing so you can focus on your studies.
- Preparing and reviewing the DS-160 and embassy interview strategy.
- Coordinating the I-20 and SEVIS fee with your school's DSO.
- Advising on CPT and OPT eligibility, timing, and employer letters.
- Filing the STEM OPT 24-month extension and tracking unemployment limits.
- Managing school transfers and program-level changes within SEVIS.
- Filing reinstatement petitions when status has lapsed.
- Planning the cap-gap bridge from F-1 OPT to an H-1B start date.
F-1, M-1 and Dependent Status
The F-1 visa is the most common student category, covering degree and academic programs at SEVP-certified schools. F-1 students must maintain a full course load, make normal academic progress, and keep their SEVIS record active.
The M-1 visa covers vocational and nonacademic training such as cosmetology, aviation, culinary, and other trade programs. M-1 students have stricter limits on program length and employment than F-1 students.
Dependents of an F-1 student hold F-2 status (M-2 for M-1 dependents). F-2 spouses may not work and may not pursue a full course of study, though F-2 children may attend K-12 school. When an F-2 spouse wants to study full time or work, they typically must change to their own F-1 or other appropriate status.
The Student-Visa Process
Most F-1 and M-1 applicants follow the same path from school acceptance to U.S. entry.
School Acceptance
Apply to and receive admission from a SEVP-certified school. The school's Designated School Official (DSO) confirms your enrollment.
Receive Your I-20
The school issues Form I-20, your Certificate of Eligibility, which creates your record in SEVIS and lists your program and funding details.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online before scheduling your visa interview, and keep the receipt for your records and the consulate.
File the DS-160
Complete the DS-160 online nonimmigrant visa application, upload your photo, and pay the visa application fee.
Embassy Interview
Attend your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate with your I-20, SEVIS receipt, and proof of funds and ties to your home country.
Entry to the United States
Enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date, present your documents at the port of entry, and check that your I-94 reflects F-1 (or M-1) status.
Documents for a Student Visa
The exact set varies by consulate and program, but most applicants prepare the following.
Core Application
- Valid passport (typically valid at least six months beyond stay)
- Form I-20 signed by you and your DSO
- DS-160 confirmation page
- I-901 SEVIS fee receipt
- Visa application fee receipt
- Passport-style photograph meeting U.S. specifications
Academic & Financial
- School admission/acceptance letter
- Transcripts, diplomas, and standardized test scores
- Bank statements or financial sponsor documents
- Affidavit of support or scholarship award letter
Ties & Intent
- Evidence of intent to return home after studies
- Proof of employment, property, or family ties abroad
- Statement of study plans and career goals
Frequently Asked Questions
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