F-1 Visa Guide for Florida State University

This guide walks Florida State admits through every F-1 visa step from I-20 acceptance to consular interview preparation.

To study at Florida State University on an F-1 visa, you must first gain admission and receive a Form I-20 from International Student and Scholar Services. The I-20 certifies your eligibility for F-1 status and lists your program dates. After receiving the I-20, pay the current SEVIS I-901 fee at fmjfee.com, complete the DS-160, and schedule an interview at a US embassy or consulate. The US Department of State sets visa appointment wait times, so apply early.

Once admitted, you must maintain full-time enrollment each fall and spring semester. SEVP/ICE rules require you to report address changes within 10 days and keep your passport valid at least six months into the future. If you need to extend your program or transfer to another school, request an updated I-20 through International Student and Scholar Services before your current document expires.

Your I-20 and the international student office

International Student and Scholar Services, part of the Center for Global Engagement, provides immigration advising, orientation, and document support for F-1 and J-1 students. Its Designated School Officials issue I-20 and DS-2019 forms, authorize reduced course loads when permitted by SEVP regulations, and sign off on Curricular Practical Training requests. You should meet with an advisor before any change that affects your enrollment or visa status.

Financial documentation for your I-20

You must show liquid funds that cover the school's published cost of attendance for your first year. USCIS/SEVP rules require the university to verify this evidence before issuing the I-20. Acceptable documents include official bank letters, scholarship awards, or sponsor letters. If you bring dependents, you must provide additional proof of support for each dependent. Check the current figure published by Florida State University.

Arriving in Tallahassee

Tallahassee is Florida's capital city and a college town built around state government and its two major universities. The cost of living is lower than in Miami or Orlando, and students rely on the StarMetro bus system for free campus-area transit. Summer afternoons are hot and humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common from June through September. The city has a growing network of walking and biking trails, plus easy access to state parks and the Gulf Coast for weekend trips.

Common challenges for Florida State University applicants

• Proving sufficient liquid funds when multiple family members contribute to your support
• Understanding the difference between a reduced course load for medical reasons and academic difficulty
• Keeping your passport valid through the end of your planned stay
• Reporting a change of address to International Student & Scholar Services within the 10-day SEVP window
• Knowing when Curricular Practical Training ends and Optional Practical Training begins

Working during and after your program

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session, and full time during official breaks. Curricular Practical Training is authorized by International Student and Scholar Services when the employment is integral to your degree program. Optional Practical Training requires an application to USCIS after your Designated School Official recommends you in SEVIS. OPT approvals are never guaranteed. USCIS/SEVP rules bar unauthorized employment; working without authorization can result in termination of your F-1 record.

Frequently asked questions