The F-1 Visa is for non-immigrants to enter the United Sates for the purpose of engaging in full-time study and after completing studies, the individual will return to the foreign country of permanent residence.

Upon admission to UCLA, students may obtain an F-1 visa by visiting a U.S. embassy or consulate, and present a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) that is usually issued by the UCLA undergraduate or graduate admissions office. Generally, F-1 students are expected to attend the educational institution that issued the I-20 before they are eligible to transfer to another school.

After being admitted to the US, the student is then eligible to stay in the US for the "duration of studies" (D/S on form I-94 and I-20 ID). Duration of studies (or to be "in status") means the time during which the student is in compliance with F-1 regulations. Upon completion of studies, the student may engage in one year of optional practical training (except EAP, certificate, and preceptor program students), and thereafter has an additional 60 days to depart the US.

The benefits of on-campus employment, program extension, institution transfer, Curricular Practical Training, and Optional Practical Training are only available to those students who are in status and who meet the criteria established for each benefit.

PDF Files containing specific instructions and forms required to request a benefit are here.

While there are different visa categories international students may hold, DCISS requires that all students holding F-1 or J-1 status check-in with a counselor upon arrival, and remain in contact with the office regarding maintenance of their status. The International Student Handbook (PDF) covers many of the questions regarding the F and J visa requirements. To discuss student visa concerns in more detail, please call the front desk to make an appointment; we cannot process appointment requests by email at this time.