Maintaining F-1 Status

The International Student Services Office is here to support you and help you to understand your F-1 student requirements. You are responsible for following these requirements and maintaining your F-1 status. Failure to follow these requirements may result in termination of your status and possible removal from the United States.

This quick guide highlights the main requirements for maintaining your F-1 status.

  • Enter the United States no more than 30 days before the start of your program. As soon as you arrive in the United States, you must report to the International Student Services office.

  • Maintain a full course of study during each academic semester. This means taking at least 12 credits in an associate or bachelor’s degree program, or 18 hours of instruction in the English Language Institute. Enrollment may not be required during your annual vacation, such as the summer.

  • Contact your DSO before dropping any classes if you cannot maintain full-time status or believe you may qualify for a reduced course load. Dropping below full-time status without prior approval from your DSO may result in falling out of F-1 status.

  • Report any change of address within 10 days of the change. Students must update their address through their online account in HFC Self-Service.

  • Follow the proper procedures if you need to change your major, change your education level, request an extension of stay, or transfer to another U.S. institution. Contact your DSO for more information.

  • Follow all F-1 employment requirements and obtain the required authorization before beginning any employment. See Employment Information for more details.

  • Keep your passport valid at least 6 months into the future. We recommend keeping your passport valid beyond the expected end date of your studies.

  • Notify the International Student Services Office of any change to your immigration status.

  • F-1 students are required to obey federal, state, and local laws.