International Students

If you are looking for a great school to attend in the United States, you have come to the right place!

HEI is approved by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to issue all the necessary paperwork needed for you to obtain your M-1 VISA to come to the U.S.

We will help you complete all of the required paperwork; help with a place to live, to make your experience in the US a memorable one.

Admissions Requirements for International Students

Submit Application to HEI Admissions Office, Attn: International Student Advisor, with a $ 100.00 non-refundable application fee. Adobe Acrobat Reader
Present an original document certifying immigrant or non-immigrant status. (Passport, visa, permanent resident alien card, etc.)

Submit Financial Statements:

Affidavit of Support showing that you have funds to finance your education.
Certified statement from your bank, (sponsors bank), showing that the required funds are available. Suggested wording for letter
Additional documents substantiating your ability to support yourself/student financially. Financial Documentation
Submit proof of proficiency in the English language.
Submit Official High School transcript.*
Submit Official College/University transcripts.*
Submit proof of current health insurance coverage.
Pay one semester's tuition fees to HEI.
Pay SEVIS Fee prior to interview with U.S. Consulate.
Submit Transfer Clearance Form to your Advisor at your current school, if applicable.

*If transcripts are in a language other than English, an official translation is required. Foreign postsecondary educational credentials must have a course-by-course evaluation by an Independent Evaluation Service. Photocopies and faxes are not acceptable.

M-1 students must start their studies in the quarter for which the visa is granted and remain in Institution during the duration of the visa's awarded period. Otherwise, the Institution must notify INS immediately that the student is not in school and therefore "out of status." The student must consult with the ISA if a problem arises which prohibits the student's attendance at the Institution. Before withdrawing from a course, the M-1 student must have the approval of the ISA, since time parameters for program completion are part of the visa approval process. The ISA will notify INS officials if the student does not show quarterly academic progress or is placed on academic probation, exclusion, or suspension.

According to INS policies, M-1 student's visa and passport must remain updated while attending HEI. It is the responsibility of the M-1 student to keep tract of the expiration dates of his/her documents. If the visa or passport is to expire before the completion of the students program, he/she must see the ISA in order to complete appropriate forms for an extension. The student must meet with the ISA no less than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the document(s) in order to have adequate time to have the document(s) in question renewed. Failure to do so could result in the INS denying the request for the student extension that would then result in the student having to leave the country prior to completion of his/her program.

**Note: Fees and tuition are subject to change.

M1 Visa FAQ’s

Q: What is M-1 visa?
A: The M1 student visa is a non-immigrant visa which allows foreign students wishing to pursue vocational or non-academic studies, other than language training, to enter into the U.S.

Q: How do I qualify for M-1 visa?
A: To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must::
Prove your intention to enter into the U.S. temporarily
Attend an approved vocational study program
Engage in a full course of study

Q: What privileges do I enjoy on M-1 visa?
A: On M-1 visa, you may:
Enter the U.S. as a full time vocational or non-academic student
Transfer from one school to another
Travel in and out of the U.S. for short periods of time
Apply for M-2 visas for dependents accompanying you to the U.S.

Q: What are the limitations of M-1 student visa?
A: On M-1 student visa, you may:
Transfer from one school to another only with the permission of the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Never be permitted to change your course of study
Take dependents to stay with you in the U.S. but they may not work
Note: Once you are six months into the program of studies, you are prohibited from changing your course of study except under truly exceptional circumstances.

Q: Can I work on M-1 visa?
A: No, you may not work on M-1 visa. However, you may apply for practical training after you complete your studies. If approved, you will be allowed to have one month of practical training for every four months of study you have completed. You will be limited to six months total practical training time.

Q: How long can I stay in the U.S. on a M-1 visa?
A: You may stay in the U.S. on M1 visa for one year, or for as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student in a vocational program plus thirty days to prepare to leave the country, whichever is shorter.

Q: Can I apply for extension of stay on M-1 visa?
A: Yes, you may apply for extension of stay on M-1 visa.

Q: How do I extend my stay on M-1 visa?
A: To extend your stay you must:
Complete Form I-539, Application to Extend or Change Non-immigrant Status, and send it to USCIS at least 15 (but not more than 60) days before your authorized stay in the U.S. expires
Submit your Form I-20I-D to the USCIS at the same time

Q: Are there any travel restrictions on M-1 visa?
A: No, there are no travel restrictions on M-1 visa. M-1 students may leave the U.S. and be readmitted after temporary absences. When making your travel plans, please remember that you must be a full-time student to keep your M-1 student status. Upon your return to the U.S. you should provide the immigration inspectors with:
Valid passport • Valid M-1 entry visa stamped in the passport (if necessary)
Current Form I-20I-D signed by your designated school official. You should have the Designated School Official sign your Form I-20I-D each time you wish to temporarily travel outside the U.S.
New Form I-20M-N, Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant M-1 Student Status, if there have been substantive changes in your course of study or place of study
Proof of your financial support

Q: How do I apply for M-1 visa?
A: While applying, the M-1 visa documents required are:
A valid passport and any previous passports you have held which are still in your possession
Fully completed and signed application Form DS-156 and Form DS-158
Recent passport-size photographs of you taken on a plain white background. Face must be thumb size, full face, without glasses or head covering
A police certificate issued within the last year if you are 14 years or older
Original Form I-20M-N issued by the school you will attend, 901 form and acceptance letters
Electronic verification received at the Embassy from your school that you have been accepted for enrollment
Evidence of sufficient funds
Note: All male students between 16-45 years must also complete Form DS-157 Supplemental Non-immigrant Visa Application.

Q: Can I enter the U.S. on my M-1 visa before school begins?
A: Yes, you may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the commencement of your study program.

Q: What duties must I fulfill to remain in good M-1 status?
A: To remain in good M-1 status, you must:
Pass your course work every semester
Pay tuition fees on time
Maintain an international address to which you intend to depart upon completion of studies
Always maintain the same educational objectives

Q: Can I bring my dependents on M-1 visa?
A: Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may come with you to the U.S. on M-2 non-immigrant visa.

Q: What is the procedure to bring my dependents on M-2 visa?
A: To bring your dependents on M-2 visa, your dependents must:
Visit the U.S. embassy or consulate with you when you apply for your M-1 student visa
Be prepared to prove their relationship with you
Provide the U.S. embassy staff with a copy of your Form I-20I-D and proof of their relationship with you if they plan to follow you at a later date

Q: Can my dependents work on M-2 visa?
A: No, your spouse and children may not accept employment on derivative M-2 status.

Q: Can my dependents study on M-2 visa?
A: Your M-2 spouse may not engage in full-time study and your M-2 child may only engage in full-time study if the study is in an elementary or secondary school (kindergarten through twelfth grade).
Note: Your M-2 spouse and child may engage in study that is vocational or recreational in nature.

Q: Can I take a holiday in the U.S. on M-1 visa after I have completed my study program?
A: While on M-1 visa you may remain in the U.S. for up to 30 days after the completion of your study program, or in total one year from your date of admission, whichever is shorter. If you wish to remain longer, you will be required to apply for Change of Status from M-1 to B-2 with the USCIS.

Q: What should I do with the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, from my last visit to the U.S.?
A: You should complete the back of the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, and return it to the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Q: Do I need any vaccinations to be eligible for M-1 visa?
A: Vaccinations are no longer required for temporary travel to the U.S. However, if you are intending to study or work, you should contact the school or prospective employer as they may have specific requirements.

Q: What is the difference between F-1 and M-1 Visa program?
A: The F-1 visa gives you the option to transfer to a university after you have completed your community college studies. On M-1 visa, you study a vocational program for one year and then you must return to your home country. M-1 students are not allowed to continue on to the university level.

Q: How can I obtain a copy of the I-94/I-94W Arrival-Departure Document?
A: The airline or shipping company will give you the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, when you check in for your flight or in the case of a cruise, aboard the ship.

Q: What can I do to expedite my application for M-1 visa?
A: Your patience is highly appreciated. According to the latest U.S. Department of State regulations, applications for studies and research in certain academic fields need advisory opinions from Washington. It takes a minimum of four weeks. Once the review is complete, the Consular Section will notify you of the outcome. You may call the Consular Section to check on the status of your case or leave your best phone number of contact. However, it is not possible to adjudicate your case before the review is complete.

Q: Are services performed by foreign students and exchange visitors covered by Social Security?
A: No, if you are performing work connected to your studies on M-1 status, you are not subject to Social Security coverage.


Admissions Requirements Admissions Procedures Financial Office International Students Why Choose HEI? If you are looking for a great school to attend in the United States, you have come to the right place! HEI is approved by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to issue all the necessary paperwork needed for you to obtain your M-1 VISA to come to the U.S. We will help you complete all of the required paperwork; help with a place to live, to make your experience in the US a memorable one. Admissions Requirements for International Students Submit Application to HEI Admissions Office, Attn: International Student Advisor, with a $ 100.00 non-refundable application fee. Adobe Acrobat Reader Present an original document certifying immigrant or non-immigrant status. (Passport, visa, permanent resident alien card, etc.) Submit Financial Statements: Affidavit of Support showing that you have funds to finance your education. Certified statement from your bank, (sponsors bank), showing that the required funds are available. Suggested wording for letter Additional documents substantiating your ability to support yourself/student financially. Financial Documentation Submit proof of proficiency in the English language. Submit Official High School transcript.* Submit Official College/University transcripts.* Submit proof of current health insurance coverage. Pay one semester's tuition fees to HEI. Pay SEVIS Fee prior to interview with U.S. Consulate. Submit Transfer Clearance Form to your Advisor at your current school, if applicable. If transcripts are in a language other than English, an official translation is required. Foreign postsecondary educational credentials must have a course-by-course evaluation by an Independent Evaluation Service. Photocopies and faxes are not acceptable. M-1 students must start their studies in the quarter for which the visa is granted and remain in Institution during the duration of the visa's awarded period. Otherwise, the Institution must notify INS immediately that the student is not in school and therefore "out of status." The student must consult with the ISA if a problem arises which prohibits the student's attendance at the Institution. Before withdrawing from a course, the M-1 student must have the approval of the ISA, since time parameters for program completion are part of the visa approval process. The ISA will notify INS officials if the student does not show quarterly academic progress or is placed on academic probation, exclusion, or suspension. According to INS policies, M-1 student's visa and passport must remain updated while attending HEI. It is the responsibility of the M-1 student to keep tract of the expiration dates of his/her documents. If the visa or passport is to expire before the completion of the students program, he/she must see the ISA in order to complete appropriate forms for an extension. The student must meet with the ISA no less than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the document(s) in order to have adequate time to have the document(s) in question renewed. Failure to do so could result in the INS denying the request for the student extension that would then result in the student having to leave the country prior to completion of his/her program. *Note: Fees and tuition are subject to change. M1 Visa FAQ’s Q: What is M-1 visa? A: The M1 student visa is a non-immigrant visa which allows foreign students wishing to pursue vocational or non-academic studies, other than language training, to enter into the U.S. Q: How do I qualify for M-1 visa? A: To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must:: Prove your intention to enter into the U.S. temporarily Attend an approved vocational study program Engage in a full course of study Q: What privileges do I enjoy on M-1 visa? A: On M-1 visa, you may: Enter the U.S. as a full time vocational or non-academic student Transfer from one school to another Travel in and out of the U.S. for short periods of time Apply for M-2 visas for dependents accompanying you to the U.S. Q: What are the limitations of M-1 student visa? A: On M-1 student visa, you may: Transfer from one school to another only with the permission of the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Never be permitted to change your course of study Take dependents to stay with you in the U.S. but they may not work Note: Once you are six months into the program of studies, you are prohibited from changing your course of study except under truly exceptional circumstances. Q: Can I work on M-1 visa? A: No, you may not work on M-1 visa. However, you may apply for practical training after you complete your studies. If approved, you will be allowed to have one month of practical training for every four months of study you have completed. You will be limited to six months total practical training time. Q: How long can I stay in the U.S. on a M-1 visa? A: You may stay in the U.S. on M1 visa for one year, or for as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student in a vocational program plus thirty days to prepare to leave the country, whichever is shorter. Q: Can I apply for extension of stay on M-1 visa? A: Yes, you may apply for extension of stay on M-1 visa. Q: How do I extend my stay on M-1 visa? A: To extend your stay you must: Complete Form I-539, Application to Extend or Change Non-immigrant Status, and send it to USCIS at least 15 (but not more than 60) days before your authorized stay in the U.S. expires Submit your Form I-20I-D to the USCIS at the same time Q: Are there any travel restrictions on M-1 visa? A: No, there are no travel restrictions on M-1 visa. M-1 students may leave the U.S. and be readmitted after temporary absences. When making your travel plans, please remember that you must be a full-time student to keep your M-1 student status. Upon your return to the U.S. you should provide the immigration inspectors with: Valid passport • Valid M-1 entry visa stamped in the passport (if necessary) Current Form I-20I-D signed by your designated school official. You should have the Designated School Official sign your Form I-20I-D each time you wish to temporarily travel outside the U.S. New Form I-20M-N, Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant M-1 Student Status, if there have been substantive changes in your course of study or place of study Proof of your financial support Q: How do I apply for M-1 visa? A: While applying, the M-1 visa documents required are: A valid passport and any previous passports you have held which are still in your possession Fully completed and signed application Form DS-156 and Form DS-158 Recent passport-size photographs of you taken on a plain white background. Face must be thumb size, full face, without glasses or head covering A police certificate issued within the last year if you are 14 years or older Original Form I-20M-N issued by the school you will attend, 901 form and acceptance letters Electronic verification received at the Embassy from your school that you have been accepted for enrollment Evidence of sufficient funds Note: All male students between 16-45 years must also complete Form DS-157 Supplemental Non-immigrant Visa Application. Q: Can I enter the U.S. on my M-1 visa before school begins? A: Yes, you may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the commencement of your study program. Q: What duties must I fulfill to remain in good M-1 status? A: To remain in good M-1 status, you must: Pass your course work every semester Pay tuition fees on time Maintain an international address to which you intend to depart upon completion of studies Always maintain the same educational objectives Q: Can I bring my dependents on M-1 visa? A: Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may come with you to the U.S. on M-2 non-immigrant visa. Q: What is the procedure to bring my dependents on M-2 visa? A: To bring your dependents on M-2 visa, your dependents must: Visit the U.S. embassy or consulate with you when you apply for your M-1 student visa Be prepared to prove their relationship with you Provide the U.S. embassy staff with a copy of your Form I-20I-D and proof of their relationship with you if they plan to follow you at a later date Q: Can my dependents work on M-2 visa? A: No, your spouse and children may not accept employment on derivative M-2 status. Q: Can my dependents study on M-2 visa? A: Your M-2 spouse may not engage in full-time study and your M-2 child may only engage in full-time study if the study is in an elementary or secondary school (kindergarten through twelfth grade). Note: Your M-2 spouse and child may engage in study that is vocational or recreational in nature. Q: Can I take a holiday in the U.S. on M-1 visa after I have completed my study program? A: While on M-1 visa you may remain in the U.S. for up to 30 days after the completion of your study program, or in total one year from your date of admission, whichever is shorter. If you wish to remain longer, you will be required to apply for Change of Status from M-1 to B-2 with the USCIS. Q: What should I do with the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, from my last visit to the U.S.? A: You should complete the back of the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, and return it to the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Q: Do I need any vaccinations to be eligible for M-1 visa? A: Vaccinations are no longer required for temporary travel to the U.S. However, if you are intending to study or work, you should contact the school or prospective employer as they may have specific requirements. Q: What is the difference between F-1 and M-1 Visa program? A: The F-1 visa gives you the option to transfer to a university after you have completed your community college studies. On M-1 visa, you study a vocational program for one year and then you must return to your home country. M-1 students are not allowed to continue on to the university level. Q: How can I obtain a copy of the I-94/I-94W Arrival-Departure Document? A: The airline or shipping company will give you the I-94/I-94W, Arrival-Departure document, when you check in for your flight or in the case of a cruise, aboard the ship. Q: What can I do to expedite my application for M-1 visa? A: Your patience is highly appreciated. According to the latest U.S. Department of State regulations, applications for studies and research in certain academic fields need advisory opinions from Washington. It takes a minimum of four weeks. Once the review is complete, the Consular Section will notify you of the outcome. You may call the Consular Section to check on the status of your case or leave your best phone number of contact. However, it is not possible to adjudicate your case before the review is complete. Q: Are services performed by foreign students and exchange visitors covered by Social Security? A: No, if you are performing work connected to your studies on M-1 status, you are not subject to Social Security coverage.
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