How do I apply for a student visa and can I work with a student visa?

I don't deal with student visas a lot because these are generally dealt with by college and universities through there offices of international students. Before you can apply for a student visa you will need to apply and have been accepted to a full time program of study in the U.S. that meets the requirements for the F1 student visa (most all full time university programs meet this requirement.) One you have been accepted the school should be able to assist you in applying for the appropriate visa. With respect to working, the F1 visa doesn't allow you to work in most cases. It does offer a period of Optional Practical Training or OPT after you complete your course of study which can be a paid position.