Which Visa Is Required for International Flight Students?
International students who want to attend flight school in the United States must apply for the M-1 vocational student visa. This visa category is recognized by both the FAA and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services as the official path for students enrolled in vocational or technical training programs, including pilot training.
Unlike general academic studies, flight school involves hands-on instruction and certification regulated by the FAA, which is why the M-1 visa is the only valid option. By entering the U.S. under this visa, students meet all federal requirements to train at an approved institution such as US Aviation Academy.
Choosing the correct visa from the start prevents costly delays and ensures your training remains fully compliant with U.S. immigration and aviation regulations.
How Is the M-1 Visa Different from an F-1 Visa?
The main difference between an M-1 and an F-1 visa lies in the type of education each one supports.
The F-1 visa is reserved for students enrolled in academic degree programs such as universities or colleges that offer associate’s or bachelor’s degrees.
The M-1 visa, on the other hand, is specifically designed for vocational programs like pilot training, where the focus is practical skill development rather than classroom theory.
Because flight schools like US Aviation Academy are vocational institutions certified by the FAA, they are authorized to issue the I-20 form for M-1 visa applicants, not F-1.
Understanding this difference ensures you apply under the correct category, keeping your training and immigration status fully aligned from the start.
What Is the I-20 Form and How Do You Get It?
The I-20 form is the first official step toward securing your M-1 visa. Once you are accepted into a flight training program at US Aviation Academy, our admissions team issues your personalized I-20 through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
This document confirms your enrollment and eligibility for the M-1 visa, allowing you to schedule your appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Because only SEVIS-certified schools like US Aviation Academy can issue this form, it serves as your proof that the program meets all government requirements for international training.
Submitting your I-20 with your visa application shows that you are ready and fully qualified to begin professional pilot training in the United States.
What Steps Are Involved in Applying for the M-1 Visa?
Once you’ve been accepted to US Aviation Academy, the first step toward your M-1 visa is receiving your I-20 form, which officially confirms your enrollment and eligibility for vocational flight training.
With that form in hand, you’ll pay the SEVIS fee to register your student information in the U.S. government’s tracking system, a required step before any visa interview can be scheduled.
Next, you’ll book an appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to complete your visa interview. Be prepared to show proof that you can cover the full cost of training and living expenses, along with your detailed training plan.
Each document you provide reinforces your intent to study, train, and return home ready for a professional pilot career.
With guidance from US Aviation Academy’s admissions team, these steps become clear and achievable, helping you move from acceptance to visa approval with confidence.
What Are the Financial Requirements for the M-1 Visa?
To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must demonstrate the financial ability to cover the full cost of your pilot training, typically between $85,000 and $95,000 for a professional program at US Aviation Academy.
U.S. immigration authorities require this proof to confirm that international students can complete their education without financial interruption or the need to work, which the M-1 visa does not allow. This verification process protects students by ensuring they have stable funding for tuition, housing, and living expenses throughout their stay.
US Aviation Academy helps applicants prepare accurate financial documentation, so your visa application meets USCIS standards and moves smoothly through approval. Having your funding in place not only strengthens your visa case but also gives you the peace of mind to focus entirely on your flight training.
How Long Does the M-1 Visa Last for Flight Training?
The M-1 visa is valid for the full length of your flight training program, plus an additional 30 days to prepare for departure from the United States. This window gives students enough time to complete any final checkrides, receive certifications, and make travel arrangements without pressure.
However, M-1 students are not permitted to work while in the U.S., as this visa is reserved strictly for vocational education. After completing training, students must return to their home country unless they qualify to transition into another approved visa category.
Understanding this timeline helps you plan your education, housing, and career steps with confidence, knowing exactly how long you are authorized to stay for flight training.
How Does US Aviation Academy Support International Students with Visas?
At US Aviation Academy, international students never have to navigate the visa process alone.
From the moment you’re accepted, our dedicated admissions and international student team assists with every step from issuing your I-20 form to ensuring your SEVIS record is properly set up and active.
At US Aviation Academy we also help you prepare for your U.S. embassy interview with detailed checklists and guidance based on real student experiences.
For many, relocating to a new country can be overwhelming, which is why our team also offers housing support and practical advice for settling into life near the campus. With a complete support system built around international students, you can focus on your flight training, not the paperwork.
Start your I-20 application today to begin your visa process with confidence.
Next Steps if You’re Ready to Apply for Flight Training in the U.S.
If you’re ready to begin flight training in the United States, your next step is to secure the proper visa and documentation. All international students must obtain the M-1 vocational visa, and that process starts when you receive your I-20 form from US Aviation Academy.
Once admitted, our admissions team will issue your I-20 and guide you through every step of the visa application process, from paying the SEVIS fee to preparing for your embassy interview. Completing your I-20 request form now ensures your training start date and visa timeline stay on track.
Take the first step toward your pilot career today by submitting your I-20 request to US Aviation Academy.
Your Questions Answered About Student Visas for U.S. Flight Schools
Is flight school under an F-1 or M-1 visa?
A: Flight school in the U.S. requires an M-1 vocational student visa, not an F-1 visa. The F-1 is for academic degree programs, while the M-1 is specifically for vocational training such as pilot school.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on an M-1 visa for flight training?
A: The M-1 visa is valid for the duration of your training program plus an additional 30 days for departure. It cannot be extended for long-term employment.
What is the I-20 form and why do I need it for the M-1 visa?
A: The I-20 form is issued by US Aviation Academy once you are admitted. It confirms your enrollment and allows you to apply for an M-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
What financial proof is required for the M-1 visa?
A: Applicants must show proof of funds to cover the entire cost of training, typically $85,000-$95,000 for a professional pilot program at US Aviation Academy. This ensures you can complete training without interruption.
Can I work in the U.S. while on an M-1 visa?
A: No, the M-1 visa does not allow employment during training. Students must plan to finance their full program before arrival.
