Tourist Or Student Visa?
Understanding the difference between tourist and student visas is crucial for planning your study abroad trip, ensuring you choose the right visa based on your intentions and course duration.
The visa you will be traveling with is determined by the intensity of your English immersion. If your main intention is sightseeing, going shopping, or visiting family, then it is suggested to apply for a tourist visa (B1/B2) (or ESTA ifyou are from one of the countries which allows you to travel without visa). If you wish to pursue an academic route, a student visa (F1) is required. However, student visas are only granted to those who plan to study more than 18 hours per week. Courses and stays that are under 18 hours per week are considered by the US Government to be solely for leisure, therefore the only possible visa that is attainable is a tourist visa or ESTA.
All visas grant visa-holders extended periods of stays in the US. Tourist visa holders are allowed to remain in the US for up to 6 months (with ESTA only 90 days); whereas student visa periods vary depending on course length. Student visas last the length of their studies and in addition, include a 60-day-grace period to remain in the US and travel upon completion of your course.
Applying for a tourist visa is less complicated. Be advised that although tourist visas can be valid for up to 10 years. Tourists are only allowed to stay in the US for 6 continuous months visits and enroll in a course for a maximum of 18 hours per week before having to return home.
On the other hand, applying for a student visa requires more planning. After enrollment in your language school in the USA of choice, you will receive an I-20 document. This I-20 document will be required when scheduling your appointment with the US embassy in your home country. You will need to prove that you have sufficient funds to study abroad and you will also need to provide evidence that your entry to the US is solely for academic reasons and nothing more. Some of the documents that prove this are an employment agreement with an employer from your country, exchange agreement from your current non-US university, assets under your name such as local properties, etc.
Now that you know the difference between a tourist and student visa, you are able to start planning your study abroad trip. You are always welcome to contact us if you have any questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
%20(1)%20(Blog).jpg)
Why Your Flatmates Shape Your English More Than You Expect
Your English progress abroad depends less on class hours and more on daily life. This guide explains how housing choices shape real fluency.
Studying English Abroad in 2026: What Has Actually Changed — And What Hasn’t
A clear, experience-based guide to studying English abroad in 2026 — explaining what’s changing, what remains constant, and how real progress develops over time.
Will English Change & How?
English evolves with history and technology, a topic explored in classes at La Jolla's College of the English Language, where students engage with native instructors to navigate linguistic trends and prepare for fluent communication.
Six Common Mistakes Learners Make When Forming Conditionals
The utilization of conditionals presents a significant challenge to students, often resulting in errors such as the misuse of "will," "would," and "unless." Let us examine the six common mistakes made by learners in this regard.
English Learning: The Ins And Outs Of Learning English
For efficient English learning, consider peak learning times, dedicate ample study time, and enroll in a top English school like the College of English Language in San Diego for rapid progress.
Pacific Mornings or Mountain Afternoons? How Daily Rhythm Shapes Learning English in Vancouver and San Diego
A grounded comparison of Vancouver and San Diego showing how daily rhythm — not just courses — shapes language progress, confidence, and transferable skills.
.avif)
Une journée dans la vie de Laura – Center Director à CEL Vancouver
Découvrez la journée de Laura, Center Director à CEL Vancouver : un regard personnel sur la vie à l’école, les rencontres marquantes et l’atmosphère unique d’un séjour linguistique à Vancouver. Une immersion authentique au cœur de CEL.
.avif)
Study Abroad Guide: How to Study in the USA After Graduating from a Korean University
Wondering how to study in the U.S. without an exchange program? This guide walks Korean graduates through every step—from setting goals and choosing the right language school to cultural preparation, building a global network, and planning for graduate school or career opportunities
