Applying for Visa

MAINTAINING F-1 STUDENT VISA STATUS IN THE U.S.

As TrueStar Inc. Educational Services, we feel responsible for each student's performance, behavior, and compliance with the school and immigration rules and regulations. It is for this reason that we want to remind you of your responsibilities as holders of Student Visas (F1).

When you arrive at the the University, you must present your I-20 Form stamped by the Customs officer, a 1x1 photo, and your valid passport so that a copy may be kept in your file.
Once you stop attending classes you have 60 days to prepare for departure from the United States
You must be a full-time student to maintain the F-1 visa status. Students who do not attend at least 85% of all classes may be considered "Out of Status." If you are considered "Out of Status,' you may NOT be allowed to:
- Extend your period of study
- Take an authorized vacation
- Transfer to another school and you must return back to your home country because of the visa regulation violation
- Exception: If you are absent due to a prolonged illness, you must provide proof of this illness (i.e., doctor's note) in order to maintain valid visa status.
You must also provide the school with your address while in the United States. Any change of address during your course at the University must be reported within 10 days.
You should keep the copy of the I-20 Form with your passport. This is an official record of your period of study in the United States.
It is your responsibility to have valid passport all times. Vacation F-1 students may take one month off from their studies if they have completed at least 1 (one) semester at the University.
If you plan to take a vacation inside the United States, you must notify the main office at least one week in advance of your departure.
If you plan to take a vacation outside the United States (if your visa allows you more than one entry), you must notify the main office at least one week in advance of your departure and you must have the reverse side of your I-20 Form signed by the Student Advisor.

THE DURATION OF F-1 STUDENT VISA

The duration of your visa depends upon the length of your studies. F-1 students are given an estimated period of time that it would take for the holder to complete his/her studies in the U.S.

The mark "D/S" (Duration of Status) on your I-94 means that your visa is valid for as long as it takes to complete your program. It is important to note that the validity of your student visa is controlled by the date that is marked on your I-94, not your actual visa.
If you took longer than INS has anticipated for you to complete your studies, you may file for an extension.
If you complete your program earlier than the estimated time, you must leave the U.S. within 60 days