Question 1

What is an F-1 student visa?

Accepted Answer

An F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that lets an international student study full-time at a U.S. school authorized to issue the Form I-20. Students generally obtain admission, receive an I-20, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, complete the DS-160, and attend a visa interview. This is general information; always confirm details with your Designated School Official (DSO) and official U.S. government sources.

Question 2

What is CPT (Curricular Practical Training)?

Accepted Answer

CPT is work authorization for F-1 students to do training, internships, or co-ops that are directly related to their major and integral to their program of study. It must be authorized by your DSO and printed on your I-20 before you begin work. Rules vary by school, so check with your international office.

Question 3

What is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

Accepted Answer

OPT is up to 12 months of work authorization for F-1 students in jobs directly related to their major, most commonly used after completing a program. Students request an OPT recommendation from their DSO, file Form I-765 with USCIS, and may begin work only after receiving the EAD card with a valid start date.

Question 4

What is the STEM OPT extension?

Accepted Answer

The STEM OPT extension is an additional 24 months of work authorization for eligible F-1 students with a degree on the STEM Designated Degree Program List who work for an E-Verify employer. It requires a Form I-983 training plan and a new Form I-765 filed before the current OPT EAD expires.

Question 5

What is the difference between CPT and OPT?

Accepted Answer

CPT is tied to your curriculum and is used during your program for training that is part of your studies, authorized by your DSO. OPT is more flexible work authorization in your field, often used after completing your program, and requires applying to USCIS for an EAD card.

Question 6

What is the Form I-20 and SEVIS?

Accepted Answer

The Form I-20 is the Certificate of Eligibility issued by your school that you need to apply for an F-1 visa and maintain status. SEVIS (the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is the U.S. government database that tracks F-1 students and their school records.

Question 7

How do international students file U.S. taxes?

Accepted Answer

International students first determine whether they are a resident or nonresident for tax purposes. Nonresident students often file Form 1040-NR and may also need Form 8843. Gather income forms such as W-2 and 1042-S, check any tax treaty, and file by the deadline. Tax rules are complex, so verify your situation with official IRS resources.

Question 8

Can international students get scholarships or financial aid in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many U.S. schools offer merit or need-based awards to international students, and external scholarship databases list opportunities open to non-citizens. Check each school's financial aid pages and use trusted databases, reading eligibility rules carefully and tracking deadlines.