How to Get a U.S. Student Visa – Even When There Are Complications [Episode 589]

Admissions Straight Talk

This week, we hear from Marla Schechter, a US immigration lawyer with 20+ years of experience. Marla shares her expertise on various topics related to obtaining a visa for studying in the United States. She covers the process of obtaining an F-1 visa, the advantages of studying in a STEM-certified program, the H-1B visa for working in the US, and the Green Card process. She also highlights common mistakes made by student applicants and the potential challenges of obtaining a visa for individuals with criminal records.

Relevant Links:

• Schechter Immigration Law
• Fitting in and Standing Out

Relevant Admission Straight Talk Episodes:

• Applying to U.S. Business Schools from Europe, Asia, the Middle East
• Former Wharton/Lauder Admissions Director
• All You Need to Know About the New, Shorter GRE
• Get Accepted to PhD Programs in the Humanities
• How to Apply Successfully to STEM PhD Programs

Follow Us
YouTube
Facebook
LinkedIn
Contact Us
www.accepted.com
[e-mail]
[phone]

Chapters

1. Marla, welcome to Admissions Straight Talk. (00:00:00)

2. What kind of visa does a graduate student usually need? What is the process for obtaining it? (00:02:13)

3. Are there any restrictions in terms of travel while you're a student on an F-1 visa? (00:06:34)

4. Is an interview necessary if you're applying for the F-1 Visa and are going to the United States for the first time? (00:11:41)

5. We've mentioned the F-I, we've mentioned H-1B, we've talked about permanent residency/Green Card, and tourist visas. Are there other visas? (00:12:52)

6. What about those who are viewing a graduate degree as a way to facilitate immigration to the United States? Is there a different path for them? Should there be something that they should be aware of? (00:15:38)

7. Does the F-I allow one to earn money while in the United States? (00:19:51)

8. What about a spouse or a significant other? Are they granted a visa? (00:21:21)

9. What are the advantages of studying in a STEM-certified program? (00:22:34)

10. For which countries is it more difficult to obtain a US student visa? (00:27:15)

11. What if one previously had an infraction in the United States when visiting, for example, a DUI or overstaying one's tourist visa. You then return to your home country and now you want to study. Are you toast? (00:28:19)

12. hat if somebody has a criminal record in their home country? (00:31:45)

13. What would you say are the most common mistakes that student applicants make when applying for a visa to the United States? What are some pitfalls to avoid? (00:31:55)

14. What would you have liked me to ask you (00:35:59)

15. Where can listeners learn more about you or seek your assistance with their visa and immigration needs? (00:39:48)