Studying in the United States: F-1 visa and how it works

Written by the Miami Soluções team

To study in the United States in a long-term program, a Brazilian generally needs the F-1 visa, which first requires admission to a SEVP-accredited school and the issuance of the I-20 form by that school. This guide explains how these pieces fit together and where Miami Soluções can help.

Brazilian and international students on a US university campus, with the flags of Brazil and the United States in the background

How the F-1 visa works

The F-1 is the visa category for students enrolled in long-term academic programs in the United States — undergraduate, graduate, or intensive English programs at accredited institutions. Once admitted and with the I-20 in hand, the next step is applying for the visa at a US consulate, which includes paying the SEVIS fee, completing the DS-160 form, and usually a consular interview.

What the I-20 is and how it works

The I-20 is issued by the school after the student's admission, and it documents the program, its duration, and the estimated cost of studies — including for financial proof purposes required during the visa process. Only SEVP-approved schools can issue a valid I-20 for F-1 purposes.

Choosing the right school

The choice of school depends on the student's goal — an English course, high school, undergraduate or graduate studies — and practical factors like location, cost and accreditation. Miami Soluções supports this process practically and in Portuguese; guidance on specific admission requirements and the selection process itself depends on each institution.

English schools vs. regular schools

Intensive English programs (ESL — English as a Second Language) at accredited institutions also qualify for the F-1, and tend to be a common entry point for those wanting to improve their language skills before moving on to a regular academic program. It's important to confirm the chosen school is SEVP-accredited, regardless of the type of program.

Planning the move — housing and practical preparation

Beyond the visa process, studying in the US involves practical planning: housing (dorms, shared housing or an independent rental, depending on the school and city), health insurance (required by most institutions), transportation and a monthly budget. This planning tends to go more smoothly when it starts early, alongside the admissions process.

See the general overview of living in the US →

Maintaining student status

After arriving in the US, maintaining F-1 status requires following specific rules: minimum enrollment hours, limits on working, and communicating with the school about changes in program or address. Losing status by not following these rules can have serious consequences for staying in the country — worth understanding these rules carefully from the start.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to already have a school accepted before applying for the F-1 visa?

Yes. The F-1 visa application requires the I-20 form, which is only issued after admission to a SEVP-accredited school. Admission comes first; the visa application follows.

Can I work while on an F-1 visa?

F-1 status allows limited on-campus work and, in some cases, specific off-campus work authorization (such as CPT or OPT) tied to the field of study. Working outside these rules can put your student status at risk — worth confirming the specific rules with the school and, when needed, an attorney.

Does the F-1 visa lead to a Green Card?

Not automatically. The F-1 is a temporary, non-immigrant visa tied to your studies. Some students later pursue other immigration paths, but that depends on separate eligibility requirements — it isn't an automatic outcome of having studied in the US.

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