Immigration Q&A for Current F-1 Students
Navigating U.S. immigration rules can feel complicated - this page answers the most common questions we hear from current international students at OCU. If you don't see your question here, feel free to contact the International Office directly.
⚠️ This page is for general information only. Immigration situations are individual - always consult with the OCU International Office (your DSO) before making any decisions that could affect your F-1 status. |
We can answer most F-1 Student Visa questions, or if the problem is beyond our expertise we can assist you with finding an immigration attorney.
For some basic information about how to maintain your F-1 Student Visa status, check out our PowerPoint presentation on How to Maintain Your I-20. (PDF document)
What does it mean to 'maintain' my F-1 status?
Maintaining your F-1 status means following the rules that keep you legally enrolled as an international student. If you fall out of status, you may have to leave the U.S. and apply for a new visa. The key rules are to stay enrolled full-time every semester, make normal academic progress toward your degree, keep your I-20 valid and up to date, and report any major changes to the International Office.
How many credits do I need to take each semester to stay in status?
Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester. Graduate students must be enrolled in at least 9 credit hours (or whatever your program defines as full-time). Online-only courses have restrictions, no more than one online course per semester may count toward your full-time requirement.
Can I take a semester off?
Not without authorization. Taking a semester off without an approved leave of absence from the International Office could result in termination of your SEVIS record. If you need to take a break, contact our office before dropping below full-time work. There are limited exceptions for medical reasons or final semester enrollment.
What happens if I drop below full-time enrollment?
Dropping below full-time without prior authorization from the International Office is a status violation. Contact us immediately if this happens; early action gives us the most options to help you correct it.
Do I need a travel signature to travel outside the U.S.?
Yes. Before any international travel, you need your DSO to sign page 2 of your I-20 within the last 12 months (6 months for OPT). If your travel signature is expired, contact the International Office at least 2 weeks before your departure date to request an updated signature.
My visa stamp expired. Can I still travel?
You can remain in the U.S. with an expired visa stamp, but you cannot re-enter the U.S. with it. You must get a new F-1 visa stamp at a U.S. embassy before any international travel and re-entry. Plan this carefully as visa appointments can take weeks.
Can I travel home during winter or summer break?
Yes, if your I-20 is valid, your travel signature is current, and you are returning to continue your program. Make sure your return flight arrives before your next semester's classes begin.
My I-20 is expiring but I haven't graduated yet. What do I do?
Contact the International Office at least 30 days before your I-20 expires to request an extension. You will need an updated letter from your academic advisor confirming your new expected graduation date and explaining why the extension is needed (e.g., additional coursework, thesis delay).
I changed my major. Do I need a new I-20?
Yes. Any change to your program of study requires an updated I-20. Notify the International Office within 10 days of the change and bring documentation from the Registrar.
I'm transferring from another school. How does that work?
If you are transferring from another U.S. school to OCU, you must request a SEVIS transfer release from your previous school's DSO. Once the transfer is complete, OCU will issue you a new I-20. Contact the International Office before you start the transfer process; timing matters.
I'm transferring out of OCU to another school. What do I do?
Notify the International Office as soon as you decide to transfer. We will release your SEVIS record to your new school on the date you specify. Do not leave OCU without notifying us; abandoning your record without a transfer will put you out of status.
Can I work while studying on an F-1 visa?
On campus: Yes, up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during official school breaks. Off campus: Only with specific authorization (CPT or OPT). Working off campus without authorization is a serious status violation with long-term immigration consequences.
What counts as 'on-campus' employment?
Any job physically located on the OCU campus, or a job that is part of a contractually affiliated employer providing services to students on campus. Contact the International Office if you are unsure whether a specific job qualifies.
Can I work during winter or summer break?
Yes - on-campus employment may be full-time during official school breaks, as long as you are enrolled and returning the following semester. Contact the International Office to confirm the official break dates that apply to your employment.
Do I need to report on my new address if I move?
Yes. F-1 regulations require you to report any change of address within 10 days of moving. Notify the International Office and update your address on the OCU student portal. Failure to report address changes is a status violation.
My name in my passport is different from my OCU records. Is that a problem?
Yes - your name in all OCU and SEVIS records must match your passport exactly. Contact the International Office and the Registrar's office immediately to correct any discrepancy.
