International Students will Save the World

Universities are centers for an open exchange of ideas. And where can the free flow of scientific and cultural knowledge be more important than between young people from around the world? International students learning in America, and U.S. students studying abroad are a wonderful hope for a more peaceful and tolerant planet.

Students coming to California from abroad to study learn much more than world class science and engineering.  They learn about the American way of life.  They make American friends, and establish business relationships here.  As important as the formal education, the experience and immersion in American life creates an ally for a lifetime.  It is a powerful scientific and cultural exchange. Likewise, a California student who studies at a university abroad sees their culture and shares the American perspective in their new setting.

Free exchange of ideas, culture, hopes, dreams, and friendship will do more to make the world a safer place than any amount of bombs.

There are three main types of student visas from the USCIS:

  • The F-1 visa is the most common visa for those who wish to engage in academic studies in the United States. It is for study at an accredited US college or university or to study English at a university or intensive English language institute.  The F-1 student is admitted into the US for “Duration of Status.” This means that the student may remain in the US as long as he or she is pursuing a full time course of study and has not other wise violated the terms of admission.
  • The J-1 visa is available for those who wish to engage in academic studies in the United States with an institution that has registered an exchange student program with the Department of State. A J-2 visa holder may obtain a work permit, provided the funds earned are not needed to support the student. The J-1 student is admitted into the US for a specific period of time in accordance with the duration of the academic program. The J-1 student must is pursue a full time course of study.
  • The M-1 visa is for those who will be engaged in non-academic or vocational study or training at an institution in the US This includes technical school such as aircraft pilot or mechanic, vocational programs such as cosmetology or massage therapy, and certain certificate programs such as respiratory therapy, pharmacy technician, or computer technician.

Here is a video produced by Cal Poly SLO International admissions that sums up the goals and experience of the International student program.

For more information on Student Visas, visit our page at Visawolf.