Requirements for Maintaining F-1 Status
Make sure that you:
- Have a valid, unexpired passport
- Have a valid Form I-20 with a current DSO signature
- Are attending the school authorized to attend (listed on your visa and on the Form I-20).
- Are registered in SEVIS no later than 30 days after your program start date. Check with your DSO.
- Are registered as a full-time student during a semester. (F-1 students may only count one online course (3 credit maximum) toward their full-time enrollment requirement, per semester).
- Are making normal progress towards completing your degree.
- Report changes of address, name, and phone number to OIP within 10 days of the change. This is needed to update your SEVIS.
- Do not work more than 20 hours per week during a semester for on-campus employment.
- Have OIP authorization for any CPT or OPT work off-campus
- Obey the unemployment rules and reporting requirements while on post-completion and STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
