Student visas are issued to persons who wish to enter the United States for a defined period to enroll in a specified program of study at a specific educational institution as a full-time student.

F-1 (Student Visa) is issued to those who study at English language schools, colleges or universities as full-time students. F-1 students may stay in the United States for the full length of their academic program plus 60 days.

M-1 (Vocational Student Visa) is issued to those who study at non-academic vocational schools or vocational programs of 2-year colleges. Recipients of an M-1 visa may not change fields of study. Switching from an M-1 visa to a F-1 visa is not permitted.

A student who will be accompanied by his/her dependents (spouse and
unmarried children under 21 years old) can apply for their F-2/M-2 visa at the time she/he submits his or her own visa application.
* Currently, students attending Northern Maine Community College may only receive the M-1 Visa.

Students apply for visa to either the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulate General depending on their registered residence.
The following documents are required for applying for a visa:

1. A valid passport
2. A 1-1/2 inch square photograph (37 mm x 37 mm) showing full face
against a light background
3. Official evidence of admission to an educational institution in the U.S. (i.e., I-20 A-B for F-1 visa or I-20 M-N for M-1 visa)
4. Evidence of financial support (in English)
5. A visa application form (OF-156)
6. The visa processing fee

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