Maintaining your F1 status

As an international student, it is important to remember you have separate rules to follow in order to be able to keep studying here legally. If ever in doubt, please reach out to the DSO and they can go over the rules with you.

At any point, should you feel like you cannot keep up with your studies, talk to your academic advisor to see what can be done. You may also find that the Student Success Center has plenty of resources to help you. They can also accommodate anyone with any medical conditions or disabilities.

When it comes to in-person vs. online courses, F1 students may take up to 1 online course per semester, but must have the rest of the classes be in-person.

Reduced Course Load (RCL)

Although you will need to enroll in the minimum number of units every semester, there may be special circumstances that allow you to enroll in less units. If any of the following apply to you, you can fill out the RCL form and also speak with the DSO.

1. If you are on your last semester and only need to take a couple of classes to graduate.
2. If you have a medical reason that prevents you from keeping up with your classes. Must provide a doctor’s note which can be emailed to the DSO.

3. If this is your first semester and you are having academic difficulties adjusting to the language or reading requirements, unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods, or are in the improper level.

Failure to submit an RCL form while being under the minimum number of units may result in your F1 status termination.

Extending your I-20

Always make sure you know when your program end date is as it appears on your I-20. In the case that you need to stay an extra semester, talk to your department chair first to get their approval. They will then contact the DSO to add that extension. Youwill NOT be able to extend your I-20 once your program end date comes up.

Employment in the U.S.

F1 degree seeking students are allowed to work legally during the semester, during school breaks, and after graduation so long as they receive the authorization from their DSO beforehand. There are different types of work authorizations as highlighted below.

Working on campus

If you find a job on campus, you will not need the DSO’s authorization. However, you will only be allowed to work part-time hours which means 20 hours or less per week.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is a type of work authorization you can do while you study. In order to be eligible for it you must meet must have completed at least one academic school year with your F1 status. CPT can only be done for part time hours during the semester, meaning 20 hours or less. During summer break, you are allowed to work full-time hours meaning up to 40 hours. CPT can be done for up to 2 semesters.

Here are the steps to obtain CPT:

1. Find a job that is related to your studies.
2. Take the employment offer letter to your department chair. If they approve, they will send the DSO an email for their authorization.
3. You will need to sign up for a 1 credit course of work experience.
4. The DSO will provide you with an updated I-20 that shows the authorization.
5. You will also need to apply for a Social Security Card if you don’t already have one.
6. Once you have both the DSO approval and Social Security Card, you can begin working. You will not be able to work without a Social Security Card.

You can always ask the DSO to go over the details with you if you require further clarification.

Optional Practical Training:

OPT is a type of work authorization that happens after you complete your program. If approved, you will be allowed to stay in the country and work for up to 1 year. For STEM degrees, you can qualify to apply for a STEM extension which will allow you to stay an additional 2 years. Unlike CPT, with OPT you can continuously work full-time the entire time. You can start applying for OPT as soon as 90 days before your program end date and up to 60 days after your program end date. 

Here is an overview of the steps you need to take to obtain OPT: 

1. Make sure you have submitted your Graduation Petition (https://hipaa.jotform.com/222016661209145) through the Registrar’s Office. They will determine if you are ready to graduate that semester or not. Without this approval it is not advisable to apply. 

1. Email the DSO to let them know you are interested in applying. They will send you an email with further instructions on how to complete the online application. You can also request an appointment with the DSO and they can complete the application with you. 

1. The DSO will provide you with one final updated I-20 with the OPT request that will be part of your application. Remember, you cannot complete the application without the DSO approval. 

1. Pay and submit the application. Then, wait to hear back from USCIS and receive your card that shows you can work legally. 

You will also need to obtain a Social Security Card which you can apply for at the same time if you don’t already have one. The earlier you apply for OPT, the better chances you have of getting a faster approval. If you have further questions on work authorizations, contact the DSO. 

Travel

F1 students are generally allowed to travel during school breaks such as Summer and Winter breaks. If you plan to travel within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, you will need to carry your passport and I-20. However, if you travel outside the United States, including Canada or Mexico, you first need to obtain the DSO’s signature on your I-20 before you leave. Leaving the country without the DSO’s signature may cause problems when you travel back. The DSO travel signature is good for up to 1 year. If you already have a signature, check the date to make sure it is still good. If not, drop by the DSO’s office and obtain a new signature.

For any emergencies during the semester that may cause you to travel, speak with your professors and the DSO to obtain approval.

Transfers

For any student that will be transferring to a new school, you will need to email the DSO with your acceptance letter and let them know you wish to transfer.

If you want to transfer into our school, you will need to speak with your current school and have them transfer you active SEVIS record (I-20). We do NOT accept terminated record. The Enrollment Office will guide you on further steps.

Leave of Absence

Taking a Leave of Absence from school is a personal decision and we want to support you as best we can. However, as an F1 student, you must be aware of what this means. Should you take a leave from school, your I-20 will have to be terminated. Whether you choose to leave for one semester or more, the DSO can talk to your further regarding your circumstances. Remember to fill out this form (https://hipaa.jotform.com/221956613899169) should you wish to take a break from school.

Updating your current address

All F1 students are required to inform the school of their most updated contact information. The DSO must update your current address on your SEVIS record. Please fill out this form to update any information that has changed (https://hipaa.jotform.com/221986168218162)