A Practical Compliance Guide for International Students
Foreign nationals studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa must strictly comply with the terms of their status to avoid disruption to their academic journey and future immigration options. Failure to meet even one requirement can result in serious immigration consequences. This guide outlines the key responsibilities every F-1 student must follow, based on current policies from USCIS, ICE SEVP, and CBP.
1. Keep Your Documents Valid and Accessible
F-1 students must carry the following valid documents at all times:
- A current, signed Form I-20 issued by their Designated School Official (DSO)
- A passport valid for at least six months into the future
- An I-94 Arrival/Departure Record that indicates “D/S” (Duration of Status) and class of admission as “F-1”
2. Maintain Full-Time Academic Enrollment
Academic enrollment is essential to maintaining status:
- Undergraduate students must enroll in at least 12 credit hours per term
- Graduate students must enroll in at least 9 credit hours
- Only one online class (maximum 3 credits) per term can count toward the full-time requirement
- Dropping below full-time status requires prior written approval from your DSO
Students must also maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by their institution.
3. Report Changes Promptly
F-1 students must notify their DSO within 10 days of:
- A change in major or degree level
- A change of address or phone number
- Legal name changes
- Modifications to funding or sponsor information
Your DSO will issue an updated Form I-20 and ensure SEVIS reflects the change.
4. Work Only When Authorized
Unauthorized employment is a major violation of F-1 status. Acceptable forms of work include:
- On-Campus Employment: Up to 20 hours/week during the semester; full-time during breaks
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Must be approved by your DSO and listed on your Form I-20
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Requires application to USCIS and issuance of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). A 24-month STEM OPT extension is available for qualifying students.
Students facing severe economic hardship may request special off-campus work authorization, provided they meet USCIS eligibility criteria.
5. Travel Responsibly
Before leaving the U.S. temporarily:
- Ensure your SEVIS record is in Active status
- Obtain a travel endorsement on your Form I-20 from your DSO (within the past 12 months)
- Do not remain abroad for more than 5 months
- Avoid travel if your OPT application is pending; re-entry could be denied without an approved EAD
At the port of entry, be prepared to show:
- Valid passport
- Current Form I-20
- F-1 visa
- EAD, if applicable
6. F-2 Dependent Rules
F-2 dependents must also maintain lawful status. They may study part-time but are not permitted to work under any circumstance.
7. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Violations can lead to SEVIS termination and visa revocation. If status is lost, students may be subject to removal or detention. We advise students to retain copies of:
- All Forms I-20
- I-94 travel history
- Passport, visa, and EAD (front and back)
You may also need to sign privacy waivers such as FERPA and ICE Form 60-001 if seeking legal assistance.
Conclusion
Maintaining F-1 status requires diligence and communication with your school’s international office. Depart the U.S. within 60 days of program completion unless you transfer, apply for OPT, or change status. If you have questions about your F-1 status or future immigration options, the team at Ahluwalia Law Offices is here to guide you with trusted legal counsel.
