Everything international students need for a US F-1 visa in 2026 — requirements, OPT, STEM OPT extension, and the path to an H-1B.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| I-20 Form | Certificate of Eligibility from your SEVP-approved school |
| Proof of Funds | Must show ability to pay full tuition + living costs for entire program |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 (must pay before visa interview) |
| Visa Interview | Required at US Embassy/Consulate in your country |
| Home Ties | Must prove intent to return home after studies — strongest scrutiny factor |
| Language | TOEFL/IELTS as required by university (not by USCIS) |
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| On-campus work (during studies) | 20 hours/week, unlimited during breaks |
| Off-campus work (CPT — during studies) | Must be part of curriculum — employer letter required |
| OPT (after graduation) | Full time — 12 months |
| STEM OPT extension | Full time — additional 24 months (STEM degrees only) |
Step 1: Graduate from US university
Step 2: Apply for OPT (12 months work authorization)
Step 3: If STEM degree — apply for STEM OPT extension (24 more months)
Step 4: Employer sponsors H-1B — enter lottery (85,000 cap, drawn in April)
Step 5: H-1B approved — work legally for 3 years (renewable)
Step 6: Employer files for green card (EB-2/EB-3)
⚠️ WARNING for Indians & Chinese: Green card wait for India EB-2 is 40–80 years. Consider Canada PR as parallel option while in the US.