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International Students > Staying in Status
Staying in Status
"Status" refers to a visa type and its regulations. For example, if a student comes into the U.S. on an F-1 visa, "maintaining status " means continuously following the rules that apply to F-1 visas.
Under current U.S. immigration law, students must "maintain their visa status." If they do not maintain their visa status, the consequences can be serious. The U.S. government considers students who do not maintain their status to be "unlawfully present" (illegally present) in the United States. If students become "out of status," assisting them is very difficult.
F-1 Visa Holders:
- Maintain a valid I-20 . To determine validity, look in section 5, where it says "complete studies no later than (date)." The date must not expire. Students who need an extension should see their Foreign Student Advisor. It is the students' responsibility to ensure that their I-20s are valid at all times while studying in the United States.
- Keep passport valid at all times. To renew passports that will expire while in the United States, visa-holders should contact their embassy or consulate in the U.S. for instructions. This process can take several months - start applying for a renewal six months before it expires.
- Maintain full-time enrolment during the fall and spring semesters. Undergraduate students must take at least 12 credit hours each semester. Graduate students must take 8 credit hours each semester. Summer enrollment is not required, except in certain circumstances. For information about enrollment, contact Jodie Beatty
in the Office of Admissions.
- NEVER work without authorization . All students must contact their Foreign Student Advisor to receive work authorization before accepting employment. It is illegal to work without proper authorization.
- Maintain a minimum level of health insurance coverage for yourself and all dependents. Specific information about insurance coverage is available from the Office of Admissions.
