Why the F-1 Visa Is Your Path to Education and Legal Status in the USA

What is an F-1 visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows foreign citizens to legally reside in the United States while pursuing an educational program.

With an F-1 visa, you can study at:

• Universities and colleges

• Language schools (such as Lingua Prime in Brooklyn)

• Private educational institutions

Why is the F-1 a real path to legal status in the U.S.?

1. Fully legal stay in the USA

With an F-1 visa, you are legally present in the country. This is especially important for those who want to stay long-term without violating immigration laws.

2. Access to American education

You can study English at a certified ESL school, prepare for college, take professional courses, or begin academic studies.

3. Possibility to change status If you’re already in the U.S. (on a B1/B2, J1, or other visa), you can apply for a Change of Status to F-1 through Lingua Prime without leaving the country.

4. Pathway to college or university

Starting at a language school can help you transition to a college or university in the U.S. without having to leave. It’s a “from zero to diploma” strategy.

5. Access to OPT/CPT after graduation

After completing your program (especially at a college or university), F-1 students may qualify for work-based practical training in the U.S. (Optional or Curricular Practical Training).

How Lingua Prime helps with the F-1 visa

Lingua Prime Brooklyn is an accredited language school officially authorized to issue Form I-20, which is required to apply for an F-1 visa.

We offer:

• Visa consultations and Change of Status guidance

• Fast preparation of documents

• Personalized support and step-by-step instructions

• Support letters and USCIS-required forms

Learn more on our visa support page

• How to change your status to F-1 if you're already in the U.S.

• Enroll in a language program at Lingua Prime

• Receive Form I-20 and payment receipts

• File Form I-539 with USCIS (yourself or via an immigration lawyer)

• Wait for approval (typically 3–6 months)

• Begin studying once approval is granted

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work with an F-1 visa?

• No, you may not work while studying, but after one academic year you can apply for work-based training programs like OPT or CPT.

How much does the program cost?

• Programs at Lingua Prime start at $1,500 for a 12-week session (216 hours), which is more affordable than most colleges.

Conclusion: Is it worth applying for the F-1 visa?

• If you want to study, adapt, and live in the United States legally, the F-1 visa is a real and proven path forward.

With Lingua Prime, you receive:

• Full support at every stage

• Flexible class schedules

• Affordable pricing and qualified teachers

• A multicultural community of international students

Contact us today to start your educational journey in the United States