What is the difference between the F-1 and J-1 visa?
The F-1 (non-immigrant) visa enables you to enroll in academic and language-study programs in the United States. You are permitted to remain in the U.S. up to 60 days after graduation, and you may request permission to stay in the U.S. for up to one additional year of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in your field of study. The J-1 (exchange visitor) visa enables you to enroll in a U.S. academic institution if your initial funding is “substantially” derived from sources other than personal or family resources, or if you are participating in an exchange program formally established by a written agreement between governments, or between the university and a foreign government or institution. You are permitted to remain in the U.S. up to 30 days after graduation, and you may work for up to 18 months in the U.S. if the employment qualifies as “academic training” and is approved by your sponsor.
