There are three major types of student visas:
F visa (Academic studies): For people who want to study or conduct research at an accredited U.S. college or University.
J visa (Academic studies as an Exchange Visitor): For people who will be participating in an exchange visitor program in the United States. The "J" visa is the primary visa for educational and cultural exchange programs
M Visa (Non-Academic or Vocational Studies): For people who want to study or train at a non-academic institution in the U.S.