Maintaining F-1 Status

F-1 students must meet the following requirements to maintain lawful status in the United States:

  • Enroll by the 2nd day of each term in a full-time course load (minimum 18 hours per week)
  • Maintain a cumulative attendance average of at least 80%
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • Notify the school within 10 days of any change in address or contact information
  • Avoid unauthorized employment
  • Maintain a valid Form I-20 at all times
  • Submit any required documentation within 10 days when requested by the school

Academic and Attendance Violations

If a student falls below the minimum GPA or attendance threshold, they will be placed on probation. Failure to improve in the following term may result in suspension for up to two terms. For F-1 students, this will lead to termination in SEVIS for either “poor academic performance” or “poor attendance.”

Leave of Absence and Reduced Course Load

F-1 students may request a leave of absence or reduced course load by submitting a Vacation/Drop Below Request form. The school may grant approval only under the following conditions:

  • Annual Vacation: Up to 60 days (2 terms) of vacation may be granted after completing 6 consecutive full-time terms.
  • Temporary Absence from the U.S.: The student must be outside the country for more than 6 class days. Absences are verified through airline ticket dates and Form I-94 records.
  • Medical Leave: Requires an official letter from a licensed physician. A medical leave may not exceed 3 terms in total during the student’s program.

Transferring and Exiting the School

Students transferring to another SEVP-approved school must submit a Notice of Intention to Exit form along with an acceptance letter from the new institution. This must be completed by the 2nd day of the new term. If the student does not meet academic or attendance standards at the time of transfer, the SEVIS record will be transferred in terminated status.

Voluntary Withdrawal

If a student plans to leave the school, they must submit the Notice of Intention to Exit form by the 2nd day of the term they are expected to enroll. Failure to do so will result in SEVIS termination for “failure to enroll.”

Travel Outside the U.S.

To re-enter the United States after international travel, students must:

  • Possess a valid F-1 visa and an unexpired passport
  • Obtain a DSO travel signature on their Form I-20
  • Return and resume classes within 4 terms of departure

Important: Students who obtained F-1 status through Change of Status (COS) inside the U.S. are not eligible for reentry unless they first obtain an F-1 visa from a U.S. embassy abroad.

Communication and Compliance

F-1 students must maintain active communication with the school. Failure to respond to official requests, submit required documents, or comply with deadlines may result in SEVIS termination.

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions or concerns about your F-1 visa responsibilities, please contact us. We’re here to help.