F-1 status is reserved for individuals coming to the United States to pursue full-time study at an accredited college, university, seminary, high school/elementary school, or in a language training program.
The applicant must be enrolled at a school authorized to accept foreign students and in a course of study that culminates with a degree, diploma, or certificate. M-1 status is for students in vocational or other non-academic programs.
Both F-1 and M-1 status are considered “nonimmigrant,” meaning that students must maintain ties outside of the United States and have the intent to depart upon completion of their studies. In addition to extensive background checks, student visa applicants must show that they are proficient in English (or enrolled in English classes) and have sufficient funds available to support the entirety of their time in the United States.
In its most recent study, the U.S. Department of State(goes to new website) reported that more than 1.1 million foreign students from 210 countries attended U.S. colleges and universities in 2023/2024. This is a 7% increase from the prior academic year, and an all-time high. International students accounted for approximately 6% of the total U.S. higher education population and, according to the Association of International Educators (NAFSA),(goes to new website) contributed more than $43 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023. Notably, international students usually pay the full cost of tuition, therefore subsidizing U.S. students who require aid.
Beyond the economic benefits, international students are critical for continued scientific innovation and technological advancement. Graduate students enrolled in STEM programs comprise the majority of the international student population. According to the most recent study by the National Foundation for American Policy(goes to new website), foreign nationals accounted for 82% of full-time graduate students in petroleum engineering, 74% in electrical engineering, 72% in computer sciences, 71% in industrial and manufacturing engineering, 61% in civil engineering, 58% in mechanical engineering, 54% in chemical engineering and 50% in pharmaceutical sciences.
As the data makes clear, welcoming international students to attend academic institutions in the United States propels economic growth and technological innovation, thus allowing the U.S. to continue its tradition of scientific achievement.
