The United States offers a variety of degree programs—with research you can find one to match your goals and interests. Each program and school is unique, so the application process for each may be different. Remember that as an F or M student, you must attend a program that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and you must maintain your nonimmigrant student status for the duration of your stay in the United States.

Here are general types of school programs and degrees in the United States:

• Vocational—A vocational program is a technical training program that teaches students the specific skills needed for a particular job. These programs are non-academic in nature. Vocational students come to the United States on an M visa.
• Associate’s—F students can earn their associate’s degree at community colleges, technical colleges, and some universities. In some cases, M students may also be able to earn an associate’s degree if the program is SEVP-certified as a non-academic M program. These programs are typically two years and program options include science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). According to the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors report, more than 68,000 students enrolled in associate degree programs during the 2012–2013 school year.
• Bachelor’s—Many F students enroll in a bachelor’s, or undergraduate program at a U.S. college or university, which usually takes four years to complete. If you want to apply, you may need to take the SAT or ACT standardized test. IIE reported that last year, 271,943 F students studied in bachelor’s degree programs.
• Master’s—F students enrolled in graduate programs work toward their master’s or doctorate degrees. In a master’s program, the coursework and learning is more specialized than associate’s and bachelor’s programs and typically requires two or three years to complete. You may need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test or another graduate level entrance exam (MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, etc.) and submit your scores with the application. IIE reported that 311,204 F students enrolled in U.S. graduate programs last year.
• Doctorate—A doctorate degree is the highest earned academic degree in the United States and is sometimes referred to as a “PhD”. In the United States, candidates and holders of a doctorate degree typically seek careers as professors and researchers.

After you decide what program you want to apply to, make sure you have all the necessary documentation before submitting your application. If you have questions, talk to the designated school official at the school you want to apply to.