Embassy of the United States Oslo, Norway

A student wishing to attend a university or other academic institution in the United States requires a student (F-1) visa; those wishing to attend a vocational or non-academic institution require M-1 visas. Travelers who are going to the US to study cannot use the Business/Tourist (B1/B2) visa category or Visa Waiver Program as it is illegal to study in the US without a student visa.

Applying for The Visa

All students applying for F-1 or M-1 visas need to obtain an I-20 form from the school they plan on attending. Only schools and institutions which have received United States government approval to enroll foreign students have the authority to issue these forms. The I-20 form is not valid for travel unless accompanied by a valid visa. Once you have this form, you are required to apply for a visa.

• You can see a list of these schools through the following PDF file from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website. (PDF 1.3MB)

Once you have enrolled in an approved school and received the I-20 form please review the following steps before beginning your visa application.

Step 1:  Pay the SEVIS fee

Step 2: Complete the online DS-160

Step 3: Gather additional required documents.

• In addition to the five basic requirements F and M visa applicants will need to bring the original I-20 form and a print out of the SEVIS fee receipt to their interviews.

If you have ever been arrested and/or have a criminal conviction, have a medical ineligibility, or have been denied entry into or deported from the United States you will be required to furnish documents relating to your situation in support of your application.  Please click on the relevant links for further information.

Step 4: Book an Appointment.

Step 5: Review our information about The Interview

Reminder: We always recommend that individuals apply for visas well in advance of their proposed date of travel. No assurances regarding the issuance of visas can be given in advance. Therefore, final travel plans or the purchase of non refundable ticket should not be made until a visa has been issued and you are in receipt of the passport.

Entry and Length of Stay

The holder of a student F-1 or M-1 visa may enter the United States up to 30 days before the designated registration date on their I-20A-B or I-20M. The 30 day limitation does not apply to students returning to resume studies; they may enter the U.S. at any time. The holder of an F-1 visa may remain in the United States for up to 60 days following the completion of their course or practical training.

The holder of an M-1 visa may remain in the United States for the period of time it will take to complete the course of study as indicated on the I-20M plus 30 days.

Extending Your Stay in The US

If you wish to extend your program in the US, you will need to be issued a new I-20 form. You can stay in the US as long as you have the valid I-20 form and are in approved student status. If you leave after your visa has expired, you will need to apply for a new visa before you can re-enter the US. Generally, entry to the US to study is not allowed without a valid student visa.

If you have any questions regarding entry or extension of stay please don’t hesitate to contact us on oslovisa@state.gov