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Frequently Asked Questions for F-1 Students*
How do I study in the United States?
There are different types of visas that allow you to study in the United States. the most common type of visa is the F-1 visa. To obtain this visa, you normally must be accepted at an accreditted university or school in the United States, have sufficient financial support, be proficient in English or take English classes in the U.S., have the intention to leave the U.S. after your studies are completed, and be a full time student. For more detailed information, visit the State Departments Guide to U.S. Higher Education.
How do I maintain my F-1 Student status?
You must be a full time student at your school or university. A full time university student is someone who has 12 or more credits per semester. This requirement is less for certain graduate programs.
You must report any change of address to the international students office of your university.
Before traveling outside the United States, you must obtain a travel endorsement on your I-20 from the international students office of your university before you leave the United States.
How do I travel outside the United States and then re-enter?
To enter the United States, you need the following documents: (1) a valid passport with an F-1 visa; (2) a valid form I-20, endorsed for travel; and (3) current proof of financial support. You should also bring your transcripts or proof that you are enrolled in school.
Can I travel outside the United States while on Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
You should not travel outside the United States until you receive your employment authorization card. If you do so, you risk losing your F-1 student status and your employment authorization. You also need a valid F-1 visa in your passport. If you F-1 visa has expired and you need to travel, you will have to goto the US embassy in your country and apply for a visa to return to the United States. You should bring your employment authorization card, evidence that you intend to return to your home country after your employment has ended, and a letter from your employer describing their need for you to return and stating that the job is temporary until the end of you authorized stay in the United States.
Can I work on campus while I am a student?
You may work on campus (for example, in the school library or cafeteria) or off campus if the employer is associated with the school. You may work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full time during breaks.
Can I work off campus as an F-1 student?
You cannot work off campus during your first year in the United States. After your first year, you may obtain permission to work off campus if you are suffering from economic hardship or if you will work for certain international organizations.
If you have been a full time student for at least 9 months, you may obtain work authorization for Optional Practical Training. The job must be related to your studies. You may work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full time during breaks. Also, you may work for 12 months after you graduate. The total amount of time you are allowed to work is 12 months, so if you work full time for 3 months during the summer, you may only work 9 months after you graduate.
* The information on this website is not legal advice, nor is it intended to be legal advice. You should consult an attorney for specific advice concerning your own situation.
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