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Can International Students get F1 Visa Without TOEFL Scores?

Can international students get F1 visas without TOEFL scores?

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"If you're wondering whether international students can obtain an F-1 visa, the answer is no. Specific requirements must be met for eligibility. Read on and find F-1 visa process and how you can obtain one even without TOEFL scores, and more. "

If you're wondering whether international students can obtain an F-1 visa, the answer is no. Specific requirements must be met for eligibility. The USCIS and immigration authorities do not consider TOEFL or IELTS scores when assessing eligibility for the F-1 visa.

In this article, we will discuss what an F-1 visa is, outline the requirements for obtaining one, and explain how international students can secure an F-1 visa even without TOEFL scores.

Let's not waste any more time and dive right in!

What is an F-1 Visa?   

The F-1 visa is a student visa issued by the United States for international students who wish to begin an academic journey in the U.S. The F-1 visa is the most common visa for international students enrolling in Universities in the U.S. 

Key Features of the F-1 Visa

Here are some key features of the F-1 visa, this will help you understand what the F-1 visa is more clearly: 

Eligibility

  • Accepted by U.S. schools approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

  • Demonstrate Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition fees

  • Must have strong ties to the home country to indicate the intent to return after studies.

Duration

The duration of an F-1 visa lasts till the duration of the academic program. Plus an additional 60 days for departure.

Restriction

If you want to work along with your studies then the restriction for F-1 visa hoarders is that they are limited to working on-campus jobs during the first academic year. 

Also Read: TOEFL iBT® Requirements for Australia Study Visa in 2024

How to Get an F-1 Visa Without TOEFL Scores? 

The USCIS and Immigration authorities do not ask for TOEFL scores to get an F-1 visa. There are other requirements that international students can meet to get an F-1 visa without TOEFL scores: 

  • Complete Intensive English Program (IEP): To test your English proficiency level, The immigration authorities check that a student has been admitted to an intensive English language program, this will help international students demonstrate their understanding of the English language requirement.  

  • Proof of Qualifications in English-speaking Countries: If not TOEFL score you need to show proof of your academic qualifications in an English-speaking country. where English is the primary language of instruction.   

  • Check University-Specific Policies: Along with the F-1 visa requirement, check university-specific policies. Certain universities may not require TOEFL scores, try applying to such universities. 

 

Also Read: Minimum TOEFL iBT® Test Score for UK Student Visa

F-1 Visa Requirements: A Detailed Look 

To get an F-1 visa, you should meet the following documents 

Requirement 

Details 

Admission Requirement 

Be accepted as a full-time student at a SEVP-approved school in the United States.

English Proficiency 

Must be proficient in English 

Financial Support 

Demonstrate that you have enough money for your living expenses and financial support. 

Provide proof of financial support with: 

  • A bank statement in your name

  • A bank statement from a financial sponsor, such as a parent or friend

  • A scholarship program. 

  • A financial undertaking from a sponsor 

Demonstrate ties to home country

You need to provide proof of your home country and the intent to return after work. 

To show ties to the home country, you can provide proof for: 

  • A financial undertaking from a sponsor 

  • Printed copies of your DS-160 and I-901 SEVIS payment confirmations

  • I-20 form 

  • School transcript and official test scores

  • Diploma and other certificates (if applicable) 

Passport 

Must have a passport valid for at least six months 

Other documents

Keep the following documents ready: 

  • A copy of the photo you'll use for your visa 

  • Printed copies of your DS-160 and I-901 SEVIS payment confirmations 

  • I-20 form 

  • School transcript and official test scores 

  • Diploma and other certificates (if applicable

In conclusion, the TOEFL score may be a top requirement for many universities in the U.S., but they are not the top priority of the F-1 visa process. By meeting the above-mentioned criteria and fulfilling alternative English proficiency requirements (such as Completing an Intensive English Program) international students can obtain an F-1 visa. 

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