Maintaining F1/J1 Student Status (International Students)

Question

What do I need to do to maintain my visa status?

Answer

Note: All students on F-1 and J-1 visas are required to follow the federal rules and regulations pertaining to their status. Below is a list of the key rules. Contact your International Student Advisor if you have questions.

1. Maintain Fulltime Enrollment
   1. Undergraduate students:
      1. 12 credit hour minimum enrollment,
      2. 9 credit hours must be face-to-face instruction
   2. Graduate students:
      1. 9 credit hour minimum enrollment,
      2. 6 credits hours must be face-to-face instruction
   3. Students can only count 3 credit hours of online instruction towards full-time enrollment
   4. Exemptions to full-time enrollment requirement:
      1. Academic reasons (for first semester of study only and requires advisor approval)
      2. Medical reasons (requires physician documentation)
      3. It is your last semester and you need fewer than full-time credits to graduate
2. Follow Rules on Employment
   1. F-1 students are allowed to work on-campus part-time (up to 20 hours a week) during fall and spring semesters
   2. Students can work full-time on-campus during annual vacation breaks, which is limited to winter and summer breaks only
   3. J-1 students must get prior approval from the International Student Advisor to work on campus
   4. F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year.
   5. After the first academic year, some students may be eligible to take on an internship (Curricular Practical Training/CPT).
      Note: CPT is federally regulated. The Gallagher International Center holds information sessions about CPT
   6. Optional Practical Training/OPT is work authorization available for one year after graduation. 
   7. Some degrees are eligible for a STEM extension.
   8. These authorizations (OPT and STEM extension) are both federally regulated and the International Office will help students with the application process
3. Traveling
   1. Students need a travel signature on their I-20 or DS-2019 from the Gallagher International Center before traveling outside the United States
   2. Students must have a signed, unexpired I-20/DS-2019; visa; and passport to return through US customs
4. Reporting Changes
   1. You must report the following changes to the Gallagher International Center within 10 days
      1. Update or change to passport or legal name
      2. Change of address
      3. Change of major or degree program
   2. You must get permission in advance in order to:
      1. Transfer to another school
      2. Add time to your I20 in order to complete your program/degree
      3. Drop below full-time enrollment (must meet 1 of 3 approved exemptions)
      4. Plan to graduate earlier than date on I-20
5. End of Program and Grace Periods
   1. F1 students are allowed to stay legally in the U.S. for 60 days after completion of their program. During this time they can:
      1. Enroll in another degree program
      2. Apply for work authorization under Optional Practical Training/OPT
      3. Change their immigration status
      4. Prepare their departure from U.S.
   2. J-1 students have a 30 grace period at the end of their program
6. Know and Keep Your Documents Valid
   1. Make sure your I-20 or DS-2019 is valid and up to date
   2. Print your I-94 arrival record and keep with you at all times
   3. Keep your passport valid at least 6 months in the future
   4. Make a copy of your passport and I-20 and keep in a safe place
   5. Carry your health insurance card with you
7. Additional Notes
   1. These are the key rules only
   2. It is always a good idea to contact the international student advisor if you are considering any significant residency, employment or academic changes
   3. Do not take compliance related information from other students and assume it is correct/official. It may be useful to get you started, but always check with your international advisor in the Gallagher International Center
   4. The Gallagher International Center is happy to answer your questions!
8. You can reach the Gallagher International Center in several different ways:
   1. Email questions to isso@usd.edu
   2. Schedule an appointment with your international student advisor through Coyote Connections https://usd.campus.eab.com/
   3. Call 605-658-6255 to ask a question or schedule an appointment
   4. Stop by the Burr House for drop-in office hours (posted in myUSD portal and our newsletter)
      Note: If you stop in without an appointment, we will always do our best to help you. However, an appointment is the assured way to get the time and attention you deserve!
       

If you need further assistance, please contact the Gallagher International Center