Understanding the U.S. Immigration System for Students

The U.S. immigration system allocates certain visa types for students that seek to study in the states. Wake Forest is authorized to sponsor students on the following two visa categories:

F-1 Student Visa: This is the most often used visa category for students. It enables students to pursue a full-time degree program and it provides unique provisions that allow students, on a limited basis, to pursue employment during the program of study and post-graduation.

J-1 Student Visa: The J-1 category is used for exchange students primarily, but can also be used for any full-time student whose financial sponsor requires the use of the J-1 instead of the F-1.

Please read below to understand the difference between visa status and visa stamp, and how to apply for an F or J visa stamp, or change your existing nonimmigrant status if you are already in the United States.