Difference between F1 and M1 student visas
F-1 International Students
- Are in an academic program, often with a core academic curriculum
- Are eliglible for annual vacation
- Can change their major or program of study
- Can transfer anytime during their program or begin a new program after completing one
- Can work during and after their program of study, with permission
- Can participate in up to four types of work including, on-campus, off-campus for economic
hardship, curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT) - Can remain in the united states for the duration of their program of study
- Can stay in the Unites States for up to 60 days after their program or OPT end date
M-1 International Students
- Are in a vocational program, typically without a core academic curriculum
- Are not eligible for annual vacation
- Cannot change their major or program of study
- Can only transfer in the first six months after arrival and must apply to U.S. Citizenship and
immigration Services for transfer by filling from I-539, “Application to Extend/Change
Nonimmigrant Status” - Can only work after their program of study ends and with premission
- Can participate in one type or work, practical training (PT), one month for every four months
of their program - Can only remain in the Unites States for up to one year unless they apply for an extension
- Can stay in the Unites States for up to 30 days after their program or PT end date
