Can I pursue two undergraduate degrees at the same time with an F-1 visa?

When it comes to the F-1 visa, United States immigration law has specific rules regarding status maintenance and the format of the study program. In general, the F-1 visa is linked to a single full-time program, as indicated on the Form I-20 issued by the SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)-certified educational institution.

It is important to understand that, typically, the F-1 visa student must be enrolled full-time in the program for which the visa was issued. In some cases, a university may offer the option of a double degree program or a course that allows the simultaneous completion of two undergraduate degrees. In this situation, even if there are two fields of study, all courses are part of a single academic program structured and supervised by the same institution, which may comply with the visa requirements.

However, if the intention is to enroll simultaneously in two undergraduate programs at different institutions, caution is necessary. This situation generally does not fit within the F-1 visa rules, since the visa authorization is linked to a single full-time course. Enrolling in two different institutions may require detailed analysis, and you would need special authorization or a change in your immigration status, which can complicate the situation and affect compliance with immigration laws.

Given these issues, it is essential to maintain compliance with United States immigration laws and seek detailed guidance before making any decisions. Consulting your institution”s international student office or contacting immigration specialists can help clarify specific doubts about your situation and avoid complications, scams, or inadequate information spread by marketing campaigns that promise miraculous results.

Always remember that security and compliance with immigration rules are essential to maintaining your legal status in the United States, and making informed decisions can save you from future problems.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.