The M-1 visa is a nonimmigrant student visa designed for international students who wish to enroll in vocational or non-academic training programs in the United States. This visa allows foreign nationals to pursue specialized education at accredited U.S. institutions that focus on practical, career-oriented skills.
Unlike F-1 academic visas, M-1 visa holders are not permitted to work while studying in the U.S. However, after completing their program, they may qualify for Practical Training (PT)—a form of post-study work authorization directly related to their field of training.
If you require additional time to complete your studies, you may also be eligible for an extension of stay under your M-1 visa.
For those planning to undertake technical, trade, or vocational education in the U.S., the M-1 visa could be the ideal option. It differs from the F visa, which covers degree-based or academic programs such as universities, colleges, high schools, seminaries, conservatories, and language training institutions.
To understand your eligibility and prepare your M-1 visa application with confidence, schedule a consultation with the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link.
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Types of U.S. Student Visas
The U.S. offers two main categories of student visas—F-1 and M-1—each catering to a different type of educational pursuit.
What Is the F-1 Visa?
The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant academic student visa for individuals who wish to study full-time in a U.S. academic institution or an approved language training program.
Requirements for the F-1 Visa
To qualify for an F-1 visa, applicants must:
- Enroll in an accredited academic or language-training program approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- Be registered as a full-time student
- Demonstrate English proficiency or enrollment in English language courses
- Prove financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses
- Maintain a permanent residence outside the United States
What Is the M-1 Visa?
The M-1 visa caters to students enrolled in vocational or non-academic programs in the U.S. These courses are typically offered by SEVP-certified institutions and result in a vocational certificate, diploma, or professional license, rather than a degree.
Key Information About the M-1 Visa
- M-1 visa holders may remain in the U.S. for the duration of their vocational or technical program.
- Students cannot work while studying but may apply for authorized Practical Training after program completion.
- The visa may be issued up to 365 days before your program begins, but entry into the U.S. is only allowed within 30 days prior to your start date.
- Programs must be full-time and lead to a certificate or diploma.
Examples of M-1 Visa-Eligible Programs
Mechanical & Technical Trades
- Automotive Technology
- Diesel Mechanics
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
- Welding Technology
- Electrical Installation & Maintenance
- CNC Machining / Tool & Die Making
- Aircraft Maintenance Technology (FAA-Certified Programs)
Technology & IT Training
- Computer Support Specialist Programs
- Networking & Cybersecurity Technician Courses
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Programs
- Electronics Technician Certifications
- IT Help Desk or Systems Support Training
Culinary Arts & Hospitality
- Culinary Arts Schools
- Baking and Pastry Arts
- Hotel and Restaurant Management (Vocational Level)
- Barista and Beverage Management
- Food Safety and Sanitation Certification
Aviation Training
- Pilot Training (Private or Commercial Pilot License)
- Air Traffic Control Vocational Courses
- Aviation Mechanics & Avionics Technician Programs
Note: All flight schools must be FAA-approved and SEVP-certified.
Creative & Design Programs
- Fashion Design and Merchandising
- Graphic Design (Vocational Certificate Level)
- Photography (Non-Degree Programs)
- Interior Decorating (Non-Architecture Programs)
Allied Health and Wellness
- Medical Assistant Training
- Dental Assistant or Technician Programs
- Pharmacy Technician Certification
- Massage Therapy (State-Licensed Programs)
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Training
Skilled Trades & Construction
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Construction Management (Non-Degree Level)
- Building Inspection & Safety Codes
- Solar Panel and Renewable Energy Installation
M-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements: What You Need to Know
To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must meet several specific eligibility requirements set by U.S. immigration authorities. According to immigration attorneys at Green Card Link, applicants must demonstrate that they are bona fide students enrolled in an approved vocational or non-academic program and possess the financial and language ability to complete their studies successfully.
Core Eligibility Criteria
- Full-Time Enrollment: You must be accepted and registered as a full-time student in a vocational or non-academic institution.
- English Proficiency: You must show English language proficiency or enrollment in courses aimed at developing English proficiency.
- Financial Stability: Applicants must prove they have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for the entire duration of their program. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, scholarships, sponsor affidavits, or official financial guarantees submitted during the visa application and interview.
- SEVP Approval: The educational program must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- Foreign Residence Requirement: You must maintain a permanent residence abroad and demonstrate that you have no intention of abandoning it after your studies.
A key similarity between the M-1 and F-1 visas is that both require the applicant to prove intent to return to their home country upon completing their program.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an M-1 Visa
Step 1: Enroll in an SEVP-Approved Institution
Start by enrolling in a U.S. vocational or non-academic school certified by SEVP. Once accepted, the school will enter your details into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and issue Form I-20 – Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
Before proceeding, you must pay the $330 SEVIS I-901 fee.
Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Application
Next, fill out the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Be sure to upload a compliant passport-style photograph that meets U.S. State Department photo requirements.
Print your DS-160 confirmation page, as it must be presented at your interview.
Step 3: Schedule and Attend Your Visa Interview
If you are between 13 and 80 years old, schedule a visa interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Check their official website for any country-specific requirements.
Before attending your interview:
- Pay the $185 visa application fee (this may vary by location).
- Gather all necessary documentation listed below.
Documents Required for an M-1 Visa Interview
- Form I-20, signed by both you and a designated school official. (If your spouse or children will accompany you, each must have their own Form I-20, though they are not required to pay the SEVIS fee.)
- Valid Passport, valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date.
- DS-160 Confirmation Page
- Passport-Style Photos (if not uploaded online)
- Visa Application Fee Receipt
Additional Supporting Documents
- Official standardized test scores required by your program.
- Proof of financial support, such as bank statements, scholarships, or sponsor affidavits.
- Academic credentials, including transcripts or diplomas, if requested.
It’s recommended to consult with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link to ensure that all required materials are properly organized and presented for your interview.
What to Expect During the M-1 Visa Interview
During your interview, a consular officer will assess whether you meet all the eligibility criteria for an M-1 student visa. In some cases, you may be asked to provide digital fingerprints.
Depending on your country, an additional visa issuance fee might apply. In rare cases, your application may require further administrative processing, which your officer will explain.
Upon approval, you will receive your M-1 visa, which must be presented along with your passport and Form I-20 when entering the United States. Remember, holding a visa does not guarantee entry — the final admission decision is made by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. If admitted, the CBP officer will either stamp your passport or issue a Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
Grace Period After Completing Your Program
After your studies and any authorized practical training, M-1 visa holders are granted a 30-day grace period to prepare for departure, return home, or initiate a transfer to another SEVP-approved school.
If you wish to remain in the United States under a different non-immigrant category, you may apply for a change of status. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you evaluate your best options and guide you through the process efficiently.
How to Extend Your I-20 as an M-1 Visa Student
If you are studying in the United States on an M-1 visa and need additional time to finish your vocational program, you may qualify for an I-20 extension. This process allows you to legally remain in the U.S. to complete your studies, provided you meet all eligibility requirements.
Eligibility and Duration of Extension
M-1 visa extensions are typically granted for a cumulative maximum period of three years, starting from your original I-20 program start date plus a 30-day grace period.
To stay in status, you must apply for your I-20 extension before your current I-20 expires. Extensions filed after expiration are generally not permitted and may jeopardize your immigration status.
You must also provide proof of financial ability to cover all expenses during the requested extension period.
Your Designated School Official (DSO)—the authorized school staff member managing SEVIS records—will review your request and update your I-20 if the extension is approved. The DSO can only submit your extension request in SEVIS if there is a valid educational or medical reason for the delay.
📅 Important Deadline: The extension must be requested no earlier than 60 days and no later than 15 days before your program end date.
Common Reasons for an I-20 Extension
- Delays caused by verified medical conditions
- Adjustments to your course load or program requirements
- Academic circumstances beyond your control
Processing Time for I-20 Extension
Once all documentation is submitted, your DSO typically processes the request within one to two weeks.
While you can request multiple extensions, each must be properly justified and approved. Note that M-1 students cannot exceed three total years of study, including all extensions.
Working in the U.S. on an M-1 Visa
Students on an M-1 visa are not allowed to work while enrolled in their program. However, after completing your studies, you may qualify for Practical Training (PT) related to your field of study.
To be eligible:
- Your DSO must recommend the training.
- You must apply for work authorization by submitting:
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
Applications must be submitted within 90 days before your program end date, allowing enough time for training and for you to leave the U.S. within your 30-day grace period.
If your I-94 already reflects sufficient status time to complete PT and depart, filing Form I-539 may not be required—but your DSO must still endorse your Form I-20 for PT.
Key Rules for M-1 Practical Training
- You may receive one month of authorized employment for every four months of full-time study, capped at six months total.
- You cannot begin working until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS.
- USCIS will deny your work authorization if you leave the U.S. while the application is pending.
- You cannot re-enter the U.S. to start PT if your application wasn’t approved before departure.
If you’re interested in continuing your career in the U.S. after training, you may also explore changing your status to other visa categories, such as H-1B or O-1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study on a B visa?
A B-1/B-2 visitor visa allows you to take a short, recreational course of study that doesn’t count toward a degree or academic certificate.
Do I need to pay the visa issuance fee if my visa is denied?
No. The visa issuance fee is required only if your visa is approved.
How long is an M-1 visa valid?
The M-1 visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for one year or for the duration of your vocational program, plus a 30-day grace period to prepare for departure.
Can I work in the U.S. with an M-1 visa?
Yes, but only after completing your program and obtaining proper authorization. You must file Form I-765—no more than 90 days before your program ends—with your DSO’s approval.
What’s the difference between an M-1 and F-1 visa?
The F-1 visa is for students in academic institutions such as universities, colleges, or language programs. The M-1 visa applies to students pursuing vocational or non-academic training.
How long can an M-1 student stay in the U.S.?
M-1 students may remain in the country until completing their studies and any authorized practical training.
Can I change from M-1 to F-1 visa status?
No. According to USCIS, M-1 vocational students cannot change their status to F-1 academic student status while in the U.S.
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, our immigration attorneys provide experienced guidance on M-1 visa matters—from I-20 extensions to work authorization and status adjustments. Whether you need help understanding SEVIS requirements, preparing your application, or ensuring full compliance with immigration laws, an immigration attorney at Green Card Link can guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.