Explore Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

Go back

Q. What is the Difference Between F-1 and H-1B?

Both the F-1 and H-1B visas are high in popularity. Whereas the F-1 visa enables the education of students at college or university in the US, the H-1B visa lets foreign nationals get employment within the US for six years. The H-1B visa also qualifies a nonimmigrant worker to be a Green Card holder. The holders of foreign F1 visas are entitled to Optional Practical Training (OPT), which applies to non-immigrants.

The main differences between H-1B and F-1 visas are as specified:

Usage

To work in a specialty activity under the H-1B visa, foreign employees must possess a master’s or bachelor’s degree or its commensurate. The F-1 visas are education-related and cannot be utilized to get a job in the USA. Nonetheless, students can get previous permission from the Department of Homeland Security, besides the International office of your school, to work for nearly 20 hours every week on campus during an operative school session. Moreover, having a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or OPT also permits F-1 holders to work in the USA.

Visa Nomenclature

The employment visa is termed an H-1B visa. The F and J categories come under student visas.

Place of Application

It is optional to register the H-1B petition outside the USA. A candidate from outside the USA must apply for the F-1.

Duration of Visa

The initial validity of H-1B is 3 years, which is to be extended for an extra 3 years. The duration of an F-1 visa remains only till the student's academic session.

Sponsoring

The H-1B visa requires a US company to sponsor the applicant and be willing to pay part of the connected fees. A person, school, or other entity can’t sponsor the F-1 visa.

Related FAQs

Why choose the USA for an MBA?

Pursuing an MBA in the USA is a strategic decision based on opportunities for employment and academic reputation, as well as its global perspective. For aspiring business leaders, many compelling factors are making the USA an ideal destination. Of course, the USA has an education system that is famous throughout the world, and many of its universities are repeatedly ranked among those with top MBA programs....Read More

What's the difference between college and university in the US?

In the United States, because college and university are often used interchangeably, meanings can differ with context. In general, the main variation is in type and level of education. The term college usually refers to an educational institution that offers undergraduate degrees, whereas the university encompasses not only such programs but also graduate studies.......Read More

Why USA is best for Masters?

The United States remains a leading destination for pursuing a Master's degree, offering outstanding academic systems, limitless possibilities, and the most lively of cultures. The reasons why the USA has become a favorite destination for advanced studies are not few....Read More

What is type H1?

The H-1B visa functions as a specialized work pass, serving as a golden ticket for proficient individuals from other countries excelling in specific job domains such as technology, science, engineering, and mathematics, allowing them to engage in temporary employment within the United States....Read More

How many years is an MBA in the USA?

A Master of Business Administration degree in the United States may be earned in two years on average. However, this might vary. Typically, it's a two-year, full-time curriculum that allows you to study several business-related topics in-depth....Read More

Discover More on Study Abroad

Explore our Blogs, Webinar & Ebooks to guide your study abroad journey

Must-read Blogs

Must-read Blogs

Access reliable & authentic articles on international education

Read Blogs
Watch Webinars

Watch Webinars

Get guided by industry experts on trending courses, job ecosystem, and much more

Watch Webinars
Free E-Books

Free E-Books

Download and Kickstart your study abroad journey

Read Ebooks