Are you looking to move to the USA in 2023 but don’t know where to start?
Moving to the land of opportunities is a dream for many, but it can seem daunting without the proper information.
Fortunately, M Student Visa (Non-academic or Vocational/Technical Course) is an excellent way to immigrate to the USA .
In this blog post, I will define the visa, explain how you can move with your family, detail the scholarships available for vocational and short certification programs in the USA in 2023, and discuss the types of vocational and short certification programs available.
I’ll also give you the lowdown on the requirements and interview process for the M Student Visa (Non-academic or Vocational/Technical Course) visa. So, let’s dive in!
What's Covered in This Article
What is the M 1/M2 Student Visa (Non-academic or Vocational Course)?
The M visa is classified into M1 and M2 visas.
M1 visa is a US nonimmigrant visa given to those who want to study in an approved vocational or non-academic institution in the USA to do non-academic or vocational course.
The M1 visa is for students enrolled in vocational or technical schools, while the M2 visa is for their dependents (spouses and unmarried, minor children of the M1 visa holder).
It’s an excellent option for those who want to gain practical knowledge and skills in a short period.
And, if you have family members who will come along with you, they can apply for the M2 visa to accompany you.
The visa is valid for up to one year, and you can extend it for up to three years if you need more time to complete your studies.
Differences between M1 and M2 Visas:
The M1 visa requires applicants to be enrolled full-time in a vocational or technical program, while the M2 visa is available to spouses and children of M1 visa holders.
M1 visa holders are allowed to stay in the USA for the duration of their program plus 30 days, while M2 visa holders may remain in the US as long as the M1 visa holder maintains their status.
Differences between F1/F2 and M1/M2 Visas:
The F visa is classified into F1 and F2 visas.
F1 visas are used by non-immigrant students for Academic and Language training Courses.
The F2 visas are used by the dependents of F1 visa holders. Spouse and unmarried, minor children are said to be the dependents of the F1 visa holder.
Requirements for M1 M2 Visa:
To apply for an M1 M2 visa, you must provide proof of admission to a vocational school, evidence of financial support, completed visa application, and a valid passport.
You must also show that you intend to return to your home country upon completion of the program.
You will also need to pay the application fee, currently set at $160.
Once you have all necessary documents, you can schedule an appointment at a US embassy or consulate.
Can Family Members Join?
Yes, family members can join the M1 visa holder in the USA under the M2 visa.
To apply for an M2 visa, family members must provide proof of their relationship to the M1 visa holder, proof of sufficient funds to support themselves in the USA, a completed visa application, and a valid passport.
Scholarships for Vocational and Short Certification Programs:
There are various scholarships available for vocational and short certification programs in the USA.
They include the USAID African Scholarship Program, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, and Fulbright Foreign Student Program.
These scholarships cover tuition fees, airfare, accommodation, and other expenses.
Application Process:
The application process involves scheduling an appointment at a US embassy or consulate in your home country and submitting necessary documents.
Processing times vary, so it’s essential to apply as early as possible.
The application fee is currently $160, and additional fees may apply depending on the embassy or consulate.
Tips for Approval:
- To increase your chances of being approved for an M1 M2 visa, provide accurate and complete information.
- Show that you have strong ties to your home country and intend to return after completing the program.
- Also, be prepared to answer questions about your chosen program and how it will help you in your future endeavors.
Types of Vocational and Short Certification Programs Available
The USA has some of the most renowned vocational and non-academic institutions worldwide, offering diverse programs with different lengths and requirements.
These programs span from culinary arts, music, film, healthcare, and technology to many more.
Therefore if your purpose is to get hands-on skills and knowledge in a specific field, in the USA has what you need.
Requirements for the M1 M2 Visa and Moving with Family
To obtain an M1 M2 visa, you should have a letter of acceptance from a recognized vocational or non-academic institution in the USA first.
Also required are financial statements to prove that you can cover the cost of education and living expenses for yourself or/and your accompanying family members.
Another requirement is proficiency in English, which you need to demonstrate through an English language test such as TOEFL or IELTS.
If you plan to move to the USA with your family, ensure to file a separate application for each family member and provide all required documents.
Sample Questions for the M1 M2 Visa Interview at the US Embassy
Finally, the M1 M2 visa application process includes an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Below are sample questions that the embassy official may ask you during the interview:
- What kind of studies are you planning to pursue in the USA?
- What experience do you have in the field you wish to study?
- Do you have relatives or close friends living in the USA?
- How will you support yourself or/and your family members while living in the USA?
- What are your future career goals after your studies in the USA?
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the M1 M2 visa is an excellent option for those who want to pursue vocational or non-academic programs in the USA in 2023.
With this visa, you can move to the USA with your family and attend a recognized institution to gain practical knowledge and skills.
To get started, research the different scholarships and programs available, then follow the visa application process.
Good luck!
I was recommended this website by my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my difficulty. You are wonderful! Thanks!