Earning your F-1 visa is only the first step of your U.S. academic journey—maintaining that status is what keeps you in good standing, on track to graduate, and eligible for work authorization. Below are the essential rules, obligations, and best practices every F-1 student must follow to stay compliant.
1. Enroll Full-Time Every Semester
- Undergraduates: Minimum of 12 credit hours per fall/spring term
- Graduates: Typically 9 credit hours (check your program’s requirements)
- Summer Term:
- Usually not required for full-time enrollment unless it’s your first or final term, or your program mandates coursework in summer
- If you must enroll, confirm with your Designated School Official (DSO)
Tip: If illness or academic difficulty forces you below full-time, obtain DSO approval for a Reduced Course Load (RCL) before dropping courses.
2. Work Only With Proper Authorization
- On-Campus Employment:
- Up to 20 hours/week during academic terms; full-time hours allowed during breaks
- No USCIS approval needed—just inform your DSO and get an updated I-20 endorsement
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
- Must be an integral part of your curriculum (internship, practicum, co-op)
- Requires DSO authorization on your I-20 before you start
- Optional Practical Training (OPT):
- Pre-Completion OPT: Up to 12 months before graduation (uses your OPT “clock”)
- Post-Completion OPT: Up to 12 months after graduation; STEM students may apply for a 24-month extension
- Application: File Form I-765 with USCIS, and only begin work after receiving the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Warning: Unauthorized work—even a single day—can lead to immediate termination of your F-1 status.
3. Keep Your Documents Current
- Passport: Valid at least six months into the future throughout your stay
- I-20 Form:
- Must be signed by your DSO every year and whenever you change level (e.g., bachelor’s to master’s), program end date, or major
- Review your program start/end dates—if you need more time, apply for a program extension before your I-20 expires
- SEVIS Record:
- Report changes of address within 10 days
- Notify your DSO of any legal name or program changes immediately
4. Maintain Good Academic Standing
- GPA Requirements: Each institution sets its own minimum GPA for “good standing”; falling below may trigger probation or dismissal
- Academic Progress: Complete your program within the dates listed on your I-20 (failures or repeated courses could jeopardize this)
- Extensions & Transfers:
- Program Extension: Submit a request to your DSO before your current I-20 end date if you need more time to finish degree requirements
- Transfer to Another School: Obtain a transfer release date from your current DSO and ensure the new school issues a fresh I-20
5. Understand Travel & Re-Entry Procedures
- Valid Travel Signature: Your DSO must sign page 2 of your I-20 for every trip outside the U.S.; signatures are valid for 12 months (or 6 months for OPT participants)
- Visa Stamp: If your F-1 visa stamp in your passport expires while you stay in the U.S., you don’t need a new one until you travel internationally and seek re-entry
- Re-Entry Documents: Always carry:
- Passport (valid)
- F-1 visa stamp (valid upon re-entry)
- Signed I-20 (latest version)
- Proof of enrollment (e.g., current class schedule, transcript copy)
6. Know the Grace Periods
- Post-Completion Grace Period: 60 days after your program end date or OPT end date to prepare for departure, change status, or transfer
- Denied or Withdrawn Status: No grace period—depart immediately or risk accruing unlawful presence
7. Avoid Common Pitfalls
| Pitfall | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Dropping below full-time | Loss of F-1 status | Apply for RCL authorization beforehand |
| Working off-campus without CPT/OPT | Termination of SEVIS record | Always get DSO/USCIS approval first |
| Letting I-20 or passport expire | Ineligibility for re-entry or status | Monitor expiration dates; renew early |
| Falling out of academic standing | Dismissal, loss of status | Seek tutoring, academic counseling |
| Failure to report address change | SEVIS violation | Update DSO within 10 days |
8. Proactive Compliance Tips
- Meet with Your DSO Regularly
- Plan for registration, CPT/OPT advising, and I-20 updates.
- Build an Academic Support Network
- Use campus resources: tutoring centers, writing labs, and study groups.
- Stay Organized
- Keep a dedicated folder (digital or physical) for all immigration and academic documents.
- Attend Workshops & Info Sessions
- Most international student offices offer compliance, CPT/OPT, and employment workshops.
- Set Calendar Reminders
- Track passport renewal, I-20 sign-off deadlines, and OPT application windows.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your F-1 status demands vigilance—but it’s manageable with the right knowledge and habits. By enrolling full-time, working only with authorization, keeping documents up to date, and proactively engaging with your DSO and campus resources, you’ll stay in full compliance and make the most of your U.S. education journey.
Stay informed, stay organized, and here’s to a successful—and compliant—academic experience in the States!