Online Degree at US University

[VickieLew 0]

Hi,

A question crossed my mind and I would like to ask for some feedback.

Can someone still apply for student Visa if he/she has been accepted to pursue an online degree at a US University?

Hope to hear from you all.

Thanks.

[Boiler 45,527]

Do they issue I 20's?

[Penguin_ie 5,993]

Generally no, if it is purely online, but like Boiler says, it depends on if they have the right to issue I-20s (and that does not guarantee a visa, just means you can apply for one- you'll till have to explain to the CO why you need to be in the US when the degree is online.)

[canadian_wife 1,822]

Why would you need to travel to the US when you can do all your classes online?

good luck

[VickieLew 0]

Hi,

Thanks for the feedback everyone. There is better access to the internet, libraries and research material in the US especially in this case where the online degree is for a Doctorate program. However, I'm not sure if that's sufficient grounds to convince the relevant parties that a student Visa is needed.

[aaron2020 11,651]

No.

Online classes do not qualify for an F-1. Being in the US is not required to attend classes.

Furthermore, the school needs to issue an I-20 which is needed to apply for the F-1 visa. An I-20 can not be issued to someone taking all online classes.

[jan22 3,056]

Per F1 regulatons, only ONE on-line course can count towards the number of units needed to main to

a in status as a full-time student (which is also a requirement -- being a full-time student). F1 students (and M1, for that matter) cannot pursue online degrees, per regulations. If you are legally in the US in a dependent status (H4, L2) that authorizes you to study because of that status, you can enroll in an online program.

[NancyNguyen 1,657]

Yes only one online class per semester.