F-1 Rights and Responsibilities

F-1 Rights and Responsibilities

To stay up to date on rights and responsibilities as an F1 Student visit:

• Student Exchange and Visitor Program

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Full Course of Study

International students must be registered for a full course of study during fall and spring semesters. Full course load is 12 credits.

Maintaining a valid I-20

It is essential to maintain current, accurate immigration documents. Please consult with us if you:

• Change your address
• Change your program of study
• Experience a change in your financial situation
• Are going to travel outside the U.S.
• Will need more time to finish your degree.

Employment

F-1 visa holders are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week on campus. F-1 visa holders must obtain work authorization through the International Campus DSO and/or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). Off-campus work authorization options are:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • OPT procedure/request approval
  • OPT procedure while on approved OPT
• Off-campus employment based on Severe Economic Hardship

Grace Periods

• 60 days: F-1 students who complete an academic program or OPT have a 60-day grace period.
• 15 days: F-1 students who have received prior authorization to withdraw from classes have 15 days to depart the U.S. after the withdrawal date.
• 0 days: Students who withdraw from classes without prior authorization do not have a grace period, and must leave the U.S. immediately.