How Long Can International Students Stay in the US? F-1 and M-1 Visa Duration Explained

Learn how long international students can stay in the US on F-1 and M-1 visas, including OPT and STEM extensions.

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International students can stay in the US for the duration of their academic program plus an additional 60 days, provided they maintain their F-1 status. For those on M-1 visas, the stay is limited to one year with a possible 30-day grace period post-completion. Optional Practical Training (OPT) participants can extend their stay up to 12 months, and those in STEM fields may qualify for a 24-month extension.

FAQs & Answers

  1. How long can F-1 visa students stay in the US after completing their program? F-1 visa students can stay in the US for the duration of their academic program plus an additional 60-day grace period.
  2. What is the maximum stay for M-1 visa holders in the US? M-1 visa holders can stay in the US for up to one year for their vocational program, plus a 30-day grace period after completion.
  3. Can international students extend their stay after graduation through OPT? Yes, international students on F-1 visas can extend their stay up to 12 months through Optional Practical Training (OPT), with a possible 24-month extension for STEM graduates.
  4. What is the STEM OPT extension and who qualifies for it? The STEM OPT extension allows eligible students who graduated in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics fields to extend their OPT stay by 24 months.

Watch More

For more insights on international student visas and opportunities to extend your stay in the US, explore our related articles on visa application tips, OPT eligibility requirements, and maintaining legal status as an international student.

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