Accredited by:
DEDICATED TO
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
IN LANGUAGE
LEARNING
Begin Your F-1 Student Journey
with Lingua
Apply from outside the United States, receive your Form I-20 if eligible, and prepare to study English full time in South Florida.
Lingua issues Form I-20 to eligible admitted students; a U.S. embassy or consulate decides visa applications.
Established in 1998 | ACCET-accredited | Authorized to enroll eligible nonimmigrant students
Begin Your F-1 Student Journey with Lingua
Apply from outside the United States, receive your Form I-20 if eligible, and prepare to study English full time in South Florida.
Lingua issues Form I-20 to eligible admitted students; a U.S. embassy or consulate decides visa applications.
Established in 1998 | ACCET-accredited | Authorized to enroll eligible nonimmigrant students
Lingua Language Center welcomes international students who are ready to improve their English through an immersive, in-person program. Our Admissions team will guide you through Lingua's application, document review, acceptance, and Form I-20 process so you can move forward with your F-1 visa application.
Is this the Right F-1 Path for You?
Are currently outside the United States.
Want to study English full time in person.
Need an initial Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 student visa or seek F-1 admission.
Can provide the admissions and financial documents required for review.
ALREADY IN THE UNITED STATES? If you are in another valid nonimmigrant status, visit the Change of Status to F-1 page. If you are currently studying in valid F-1 status at another U.S. school, visit the Transfer to Lingua page.
Are currently outside the United States.
Want to study English full time in person.
Need an initial Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 student visa or seek F-1 admission.
Can provide the admissions and financial documents required for review.
ALREADY IN THE UNITED STATES? If you are in another valid nonimmigrant status, visit the Change of Status to F-1 page. If you are currently studying in valid F-1 status at another U.S. school, visit the Transfer to Lingua page.
A Clear Path to Full-Time English Study
Accredited and authorized
Receive clear instructions for Lingua's application, financial review, Form I-20, and enrollment steps.
Dedicated international admissions support
Get school-side guidance from application through Form I-20 issuance and arrival preparation.
Immersive English instruction
Build speaking, listening, reading, writing, pronunciation, grammar, and comprehension through active communication.
Structured progression
Start at your placement level and progress through seven levels from beginner to advanced.
South Florida Campus Options
Choose Fort Lauderdale, Weston, or Miami (Doral), subject to program and schedule availability.
Multicultural student community
Learn alongside students from diverse backgrounds in an engaging, supportive environment.
Accredited and authorized
Receive clear instructions for Lingua's application, financial review, Form I-20, and enrollment steps.
Dedicated international admissions support
Get school-side guidance from application through Form I-20 issuance and arrival preparation.
Immersive
English instruction
Build speaking, listening, reading, writing, pronunciation, grammar, and comprehension through active communication.
Structured
progression
Start at your placement level and progress through seven levels from beginner to advanced.
South Florida Campus Options
Choose Fort Lauderdale, Weston, or Miami (Doral), subject to program and schedule availability.
Multicultural student community
Learn alongside students from diverse backgrounds in an engaging, supportive environment.
From Lingua Application to Your First Day
1
Apply to Lingua.
2
Submit your admissions documents.
3
Receive your Form I-20.
4
Pay the
I-901 SEVIS fee.
5
Apply for the F-1 visa.
6
Prepare to enter the United States.
7
Check in and begin classes.
GOVERNMENT DECISION: Admission and Form I-20 issuance do not guarantee an F-1 visa or admission to the United States. The U.S. Department of State decides visa applications, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection decides admission at the port of entry.
Get Ready for a Smooth Admissions Review
Start with a Complete School File
- A completed international student application.
- A clear copy of your valid passport identification page.
- Three months of current bank statements or other acceptable proof of financial support.
- A sponsor letter and sponsor identification, if another person or organization will fund your study and living expenses.
- Passport and relationship documents for any spouse or unmarried child under 21 requesting F-2 documents.
- Any additional documents requested based on your circumstances.
BEFORE YOU UPLOAD Make sure names, dates, and financial information are clear and consistent. Requirements may vary, and an advisor will confirm the current checklist for your application.
Intensive English Program (IEP)
Build Real-World English Skills Through Full-Time, In-Person Study
Lingua's Intensive English Program combines structured core instruction with interactive, communication-driven practice. Students strengthen speaking, listening, reading, writing, pronunciation, grammar, and comprehension while building the confidence to use English in academic, professional, and everyday settings.
18 hours
per week
Monday
through
Thursday
Morning & evening options may be available
7 structured
levels
Placement
based progression
Start with a Complete School File
- A completed international student application.
- A clear copy of your valid passport identification page.
- Three months of current bank statements or other acceptable proof of financial support.
- A sponsor letter and sponsor identification, if another person or organization will fund your study and living expenses.
- Passport and relationship documents for any spouse or unmarried child under 21 requesting F-2 documents.
- Any additional documents requested based on your circumstances.
BEFORE YOU UPLOAD Make sure names, dates, and financial information are clear and consistent. Requirements may vary, and an advisor will confirm the current checklist for your application.
Intensive English Program (IEP)
Build Real-World English Skills Through Full-Time, In-Person Study
Lingua's Intensive English Program combines structured core instruction with interactive, communication-driven practice. Students strengthen speaking, listening, reading, writing, pronunciation, grammar, and comprehension while building the confidence to use English in academic, professional, and everyday settings.
18 hours
per week
Monday
through
Thursday
Morning & evening options may be available
7 structured
levels
Placement
based
progression
Discover the perfect City
Expand your portfolio with English programs in some of Florida's top destinations
Discover the perfect City
Expand your portfolio with English programs in some of Florida's top destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an F-1 initial student?
An F-1 initial student is generally a prospective student who is outside the United States and needs an initial Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 visa or seek admission in F-1 status for a new course of study.
Which Lingua program is available for F-1 students?
Lingua's full-time, in-person Intensive English Program is the qualifying program described on this page. Other Lingua programs or online options do not apply to this F-1 pathway.
Does Lingua issue the F-1 visa?
No. Lingua may issue Form I-20 to an eligible admitted student. The U.S. Department of State, through a U.S. embassy or consulate, decides whether to issue an F-1 visa.
What is Form I-20?
Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is created by an SEVP-certified school for an eligible student. It includes your SEVIS ID, school information, program dates, and estimated financial information. You need it for the I-901 SEVIS fee and the F-1 visa process.
How much money must I show?
Your financial documents must demonstrate sufficient funds for the estimated tuition and living expenses shown for your program. The amount and acceptable evidence can change, so International Admissions will confirm the current requirement before Form I-20 issuance.
What is the I-901 SEVIS fee?
It is a U.S. government fee paid by most new F-1 students after receiving Form I-20 and before the visa interview. Pay only through the official government payment site and keep your receipt.
What should I take to my visa interview?
Follow the instructions of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. Common required documents include a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, fee receipt, signed Form I-20, and financial evidence. A consular officer may request additional evidence.
When should I apply for my visa?
Apply early after receiving Form I-20 and paying the I-901 SEVIS fee. Appointment availability and procedures vary by embassy or consulate. New student visas may be issued before the program begins, but entry to the United States is limited to no more than 30 days before the Form I-20 start date.
Can my family come with me?
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be eligible to apply for F-2 visas. Tell Lingua during the application so separate dependent Forms I-20 can be prepared if requirements are met. Each dependent follows the applicable government process.
How soon can I start classes?
Start dates depend on admission completion, visa timing, travel, placement, campus, and schedule availability. Your Lingua advisor will confirm an appropriate program start date on Form I-20.
Can I study online on an F-1 Form I-20 from Lingua?
This landing page applies to Lingua's full-time, in-person Intensive English Program. Your DSO will explain the attendance and full-course-of-study requirements that apply to your F-1 enrollment.
What happens if my visa is delayed or refused?
Contact Lingua immediately. An advisor can explain school-side options for your admission and start date. Visa decisions and any later visa application are controlled by the U.S. government, and Lingua cannot guarantee an outcome.
What is an F-1 initial student?
An F-1 initial student is generally a prospective student who is outside the United States and needs an initial Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 visa or seek admission in F-1 status for a new course of study.
Which Lingua program is available for F-1 students?
Lingua's full-time, in-person Intensive English Program is the qualifying program described on this page. Other Lingua programs or online options do not apply to this F-1 pathway.
Does Lingua issue the F-1 visa?
No. Lingua may issue Form I-20 to an eligible admitted student. The U.S. Department of State, through a U.S. embassy or consulate, decides whether to issue an F-1 visa.
What is Form I-20?
Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is created by an SEVP-certified school for an eligible student. It includes your SEVIS ID, school information, program dates, and estimated financial information. You need it for the I-901 SEVIS fee and the F-1 visa process.
How much money must I show?
Your financial documents must demonstrate sufficient funds for the estimated tuition and living expenses shown for your program. The amount and acceptable evidence can change, so International Admissions will confirm the current requirement before Form I-20 issuance.
What is the I-901 SEVIS fee?
It is a U.S. government fee paid by most new F-1 students after receiving Form I-20 and before the visa interview. Pay only through the official government payment site and keep your receipt.
What should I take to my visa interview?
Follow the instructions of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. Common required documents include a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, fee receipt, signed Form I-20, and financial evidence. A consular officer may request additional evidence.
When should I apply for my visa?
Apply early after receiving Form I-20 and paying the I-901 SEVIS fee. Appointment availability and procedures vary by embassy or consulate. New student visas may be issued before the program begins, but entry to the United States is limited to no more than 30 days before the Form I-20 start date.
Can my family come with me?
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be eligible to apply for F-2 visas. Tell Lingua during the application so separate dependent Forms I-20 can be prepared if requirements are met. Each dependent follows the applicable government process.
How soon can I start classes?
Start dates depend on admission completion, visa timing, travel, placement, campus, and schedule availability. Your Lingua advisor will confirm an appropriate program start date on Form I-20.
Can I study online on an F-1 Form I-20 from Lingua?
This landing page applies to Lingua's full-time, in-person Intensive English Program. Your DSO will explain the attendance and full-course-of-study requirements that apply to your F-1 enrollment.
What happens if my visa is delayed or refused?
Contact Lingua immediately. An advisor can explain school-side options for your admission and start date. Visa decisions and any later visa application are controlled by the U.S. government, and Lingua cannot guarantee an outcome.
Ready to Begin Your
English Studies in the United States?
Take the first step toward full-time English study in South Florida. Lingua's International Admissions team is ready to review your application, explain the school requirements, and help you prepare for the Form I-20 process.
No school can guarantee visa issuance or entry to the United States. Government requirements and decisions apply.
Ready to Begin Your
English Studies in the United States?
Take the first step toward full-time English study in South Florida. Lingua's International Admissions team is ready to review your application, explain the school requirements, and help you prepare for the Form I-20 process.
No school can guarantee visa issuance or entry to the United States. Government requirements and decisions apply.
Lingua Language Center provides academic and administrative information related to admission, Form I-20, SEVIS, and enrollment. This page is general information and is not legal immigration advice. Visa issuance and admission to the United States are determined by U.S. government authorities.
Academic English & University Readiness
Duration: 12–24 weeks.
Focus: Academic writing, research, presentations, note-taking, critical reading.
Outcome: English readiness for university-level coursework.
Ideal for: Students planning to enter U.S. or international universities.
Students who do not yet meet the required level are placed into the appropriate IEP level (IEP 1–7) as part of their structured academic progression.
Professional English for
the Workplace
Duration: 8–12 weeks.
Focus: Workplace communication, presentations, email writing, interviews.
Outcome: Professional confidence and career advancement.
Ideal for: Professionals, executives, and international workers.
Duration: 8–12 weeks.
Focus: Workplace communication, presentations, email writing, interviews.
Outcome: Professional confidence and career advancement.
Ideal for: Professionals, executives, and international workers.
Intensive English Bootcamp
Duration: 4–8 weeks.
Focus: Speaking, listening, pronunciation, grammar.
Outcome: Rapid improvement for immediate academic or professional needs
Ideal for: Visitors, short-term students, and local learners.
Duration: 4–8 weeks.
Focus: Speaking, listening, pronunciation, grammar.
Outcome: Rapid improvement for immediate academic or professional needs
Ideal for: Visitors, short-term students, and local learners.
