F-1 & M-1 Visa for International Students Pilot Training

Interested in training to become a pilot in the United States? International students who want to attend flight school in the U.S. must apply for either an F-1 or M-1 Visa. These nonimmigrant visas allow you to obtain your pilot license in the U.S. through PEA’s flight training programs. Which visa you need depends on the program you enroll in: the M-1 covers vocational flight training, while the F-1 covers academic programs and carries post-graduation work eligibility. Phoenix East Aviation is 1 of only 4 flight schools in the U.S. able to offer both the F-1 and the M-1 visa.

Key Takeaways

• The M-1 is the vocational flight training visa. The F-1 is the academic visa and is the only one that allows you to work in the U.S. after you finish.
• At PEA, F-1 status is available only to students enrolled in a Professional Program.
• Every non-U.S. citizen must clear a TSA security threat assessment before flight training can begin, whichever visa they hold.
• Both visas can be issued up to 365 days before your start date, but you cannot enter the U.S. more than 30 days before it.
• Budget for $535 in mandatory government fees ($185 visa application plus $350 SEVIS) on top of tuition, living costs, and the TSA fee.
• From September 15, 2026, F-1 students are admitted for a fixed period rather than duration of status.

 

F-1 vs M-1 at a Glance

What Is an F-1 Visa?

An F-1 visa allows international students to enter the U.S. to study at an accredited educational institution, such as a college or university, or English language program. This non-immigrant visa is issued by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside the U.S. 

The F-1 visa carries a one-year work authorization known as Optional Practical Training (OPT).This allows international students to work up to 12 calendar months following their training through one of PEA’s  Professional Programs. This visa is ideal for students who want to build their flight hours to meet employer minimum requirements and have the possibility to work for a U.S. airline.

PEA is 1 of only 4 flight schools in the U.S. authorized to offer both the F-1 and the M-1 student visa. Many flight schools are certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and can issue an M-1; far fewer hold the accreditation required to issue an F-1.

 

Application Process for the F-1 Visa

The I-20 form is sent by PEA after the admission process is complete and is needed in order to apply for the F-1 student visa.

There are several steps to applying for a visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate:

• Complete the online Nonimmigrant visa application using Form DS-160. This also requires uploading a photo. 
• Schedule a visa interview in the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. 
• Pay the visa application fee of $185. 
• Ensure you have your passport, your DS-160 Form, application fee payment receipt, photo, and your I-20 form with you when you go to your interview.

 

What Is an M-1 Visa?

An M-1 visa allows international students to study in the United States. Unlike the F-1 visa, the M-1 is for vocational training rather than academic study, and it does not authorize employment in the United States. That means no OPT and no paid flight instructing after you finish your program. M-1 students are admitted for a fixed period, and any extension has to be approved by USCIS.

Students with an M-1 visa can learn to become a pilot through any of PEA’s flight training courses.

 

Application Process for the M-1 Visa

International students applying for an M-1 visa will undergo a similar application process to the F-1 visa students. The M-1 visa is valid for students attending a “vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program”. This is specified on the I-20 form. 

The process for applying to enter the U.S. is the same as the F-1 visa. It requires an interview and application through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

 

TSA Security Clearance for International Flight Students

Before beginning flight training, every non-U.S. citizen must receive clearance through the Transportation Security Administration’s Flight Training Security Program (FTSP), formerly known as the Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP). This security threat assessment is separate from the F-1 or M-1 visa process and applies regardless of which student visa the candidate holds.

Candidates begin by creating an account through the FTSP portal. They must submit the required biographic information, identity documents and fingerprints, along with the applicable TSA fee. TSA then reviews immigration, criminal history and other security-related records to determine whether the candidate is eligible for training. Under 49 CFR Part 1552, a flight training provider cannot begin an international candidate’s training until TSA has issued a valid Determination of Eligibility.

FTSP approval is required before the candidate’s first training flight or qualifying simulator session, not before the candidate arrives in the United States. However, students should begin the process promptly so that a pending assessment does not delay their flight training. A B-1/B-2 visitor visa does not authorize enrollment in flight training. International students must have the appropriate F-1 or M-1 status and remain within their authorized period of stay.

PEA also completes the provider side of the process. We submit required notifications about proposed and actual training events through the FTSP portal, verify the candidate’s eligibility, and upload the required photograph after the student arrives. Students should follow instructions from both PEA and TSA carefully to keep their training timeline on track.

 

Medical Certificate and English Proficiency Requirements

International students must meet the same FAA medical and English proficiency requirements as U.S. students. A student does not need an FAA medical certificate to begin training or to arrive at PEA (it is required before flying solo). The exam must be completed with an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), and international students can locate one in their home country using the FAA's AME locator. PEA's Student Services team helps students schedule the exam. The examination considers factors such as medical history, vision, hearing, and overall fitness to fly.

The appropriate certificate depends on the student’s goals. Those pursuing a commercial aviation career generally seek a first-class medical certificate early in their training. Although a lower class may be sufficient for certain initial training activities, obtaining a first-class certificate can help commercial-track students identify potential medical concerns before investing substantial time and money in their education.

Students must also have sufficient English proficiency to communicate clearly during training and flight operations. ICAO Level 4 is the international operational standard for aviation English. It reflects a pilot’s ability to understand instructions, communicate effectively and respond appropriately in routine and unexpected situations. Because PEA’s instruction, course materials and flight operations are conducted in English, students should be prepared to read, speak, write and understand the language throughout their training.

 

Costs and Proof of Funds

When comparing flying schools in the USA for international students, applicants should consider government fees, training expenses and living costs rather than tuition alone. Because program costs vary by training path and individual progress, students should contact PEA Admissions for current tuition information rather than relying on a general estimate.

The required government fees include:

• MRV visa application fee: $185 for an F-1 or M-1 visa application
• I-901 SEVIS fee: $350, paid before the visa interview
• FTSP fee: Paid through the Flight Training Security Program portal when requesting the required TSA security threat assessment

These charges are separate from tuition and may not include expenses such as housing, food, transportation, books, pilot supplies, FAA examinations, or medical certification. Government fees can also change, so applicants should verify the current amounts through the appropriate federal agency before paying.

As part of the admissions process, PEA requires international applicants to provide a bank proof-of-funds statement showing that sufficient money is available to cover flight training and living expenses. The documentation should be current and meet the school’s requirements for identifying the account holder and available balance.

The funds do not necessarily have to come from the student’s own account. A parent, relative, or another sponsor may provide the financial documentation instead. Applicants using a sponsor should confirm with Admissions which supporting records or declarations are required. Preparing these documents early can help prevent delays in admission, Form I-20 issuance, and the visa application process.

 

Continuing Students

Continuing students on an M-1 or F-1 visa must be currently enrolled at an SEVP-approved institution. These international students are allowed to enter the U.S. any time before classes begin. Visas for continuing students may be issued at any time, as opposed to new students, who can have their visa issued up to 365 days before the start date of their educational program.

 

What Changes for F-1 Students in September 2026

On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security published a final rule changing how long F-1 students are admitted to the United States. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.

Under the new DHS requirements, F-1 students will receive a fixed admission period instead of being admitted for “duration of status.” The authorized period will generally correspond to the program dates listed on Form I-20, up to a maximum of four years. Students who need additional time to complete their programs will have to apply for an extension of stay through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before their authorized stay expires.

The rule also reduces the post-completion grace period for F-1 students from 60 days to 30 days. This change affects the time available to prepare for departure or take another permitted step to maintain lawful status after completing a program or authorized practical training.

M-1 students already receive fixed admission periods and are not covered by this change. Because the rule may face legal challenges, students should check current DHS guidance and consult PEA before making immigration or travel decisions.

 

Benefits of Flight Training In the U.S.

The U.S. offers globally recognized, high-quality flight training using advanced equipment. It is one of the top countries in the world to become a pilot. Flight training in the United States also allows international students to improve their proficiency in the English language, one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world. 

Due to the FAA’s rigorous commercial pilot curriculum, students who earn their licenses in the U.S. can easily convert them in many other countries. PEA works with partner organizations on DGCA conversions for students returning to India and EASA conversions for students returning to Europe. In addition, student pilots through PEA have the opportunity to train to become a pilot using the United States’ advanced aviation tech, giving graduates a modern edge.

 

What to Do If Visa Is Denied

There are many reasons why an M-1 or F-1 visa could be denied. Ensure that you have additional documentation to help clarify any issues on your previous application when you reapply. There is no appeal process for these visas, but there is the opportunity to reapply and try again. On the next application, make sure you have a full understanding of the reason for the first denial to avoid a rejection on your second visa application.

 

How Soon Should I Apply for a Visa?

Give yourself plenty of time before flight training begins to obtain your visa. Since February 2023, both F-1 and M-1 visas can be issued up to 365 days before your program start date. Getting the visa early does not mean arriving early: F and M students cannot enter the United States more than 30 days before the start date listed on the I-20.

To avoid risk of denial and having to reapply, it is best to apply as soon as you can within the allowed time frame. Studying abroad can be a lot to prepare for. Receiving approval on your visa early gives you more time to focus on things like housing and finances. Early approval can reduce your stress on the adjustment to studying in a new country, giving you plenty of energy to focus on your studies when you get there.

 

Choosing the Right Visa for Your Pilot Training in the USA

Choosing between the F-1 and M-1 is really a decision about what you want to do after training. Phoenix East Aviation is 1 of only 4 U.S. flight schools that can offer both, and our admissions team will walk you through which one fits your goals. Contact us to talk it through.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an F-1 and M-1 visa for flight school?

The F-1 visa is for academic programs, while the M-1 visa is for vocational training. At PEA, F-1 status is available to students enrolled in a Professional Program and may provide eligibility for up to 12 months of Optional Practical Training after program completion. The M-1 visa is available for PEA flight training courses, but does not provide the same opportunity to remain in the United States and build flight hours through OPT.

Do I need a visa to train as a pilot in the USA?

Most international students need an F-1 or M-1 visa to complete pilot training in the USA. The appropriate visa depends on the program and the student’s post-training goals. A B-1/B-2 visitor visa does not authorize enrollment in flight training, and students must also complete the TSA security threat assessment before training begins.

How long does it take to get an F-1 or M-1 visa?

Processing time varies by U.S. embassy or consulate, interview availability, and whether additional administrative processing is required. Although an F-1 or M-1 visa may be issued up to 365 days before the program start date, students should apply as early as possible after receiving Form I-20 and paying the SEVIS fee. Visa approval is not guaranteed by a particular date.

Can I convert my FAA license to fly in my home country?

Yes, many pilots can convert FAA certificates for use in their home countries. The process and additional requirements depend on the country’s aviation authority and may include examinations, flight tests, medical certification, or further training. PEA works with partner organizations on DGCA conversions for students returning to India and EASA conversions for students returning to Europe.