MAINTAINING YOUR F/J STATUS
All F-1 and J-1 students are required to “maintain” their immigration status to be permitted to remain in the United States for the purposes of study. “Maintaining status” means that you are ensuring that you are complying with all rules and regulations laid out by the United States government to be allowed to study in the United States.
Below, you will find a list of key rules and responsibilities for F-1 and J-1 students. More information can also be found on the Study in the States “Maintaining Status” website.
ENROLLMENT AS A FULL-TIME STUDENT
DePauw international students are required to be enrolled in at least 3 credits in both the fall and the spring semesters.
If you need to drop below full-time study or take a leave of absence, please visit International Student Affairs to discuss your situation.
Full Time Enrollment Exceptions
Reduced Course Load
A reduced course load is only permitted for a limited number of reasons outlined below. Students should contact International Student Affairs to discuss eligibility if you are interested in part-time study and meet the requirements.
A reduced course load may be permissible for the following reasons:
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Initial Academic Difficulty with the U.S. teaching methods, English language instruction, or improper course placement (first semester only)
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Medical condition certified by a licensed medical professional (maximum 12 months per program of study)
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Completion of the current course of study (final semester):You may be approved for less than full-time enrollment if you need fewer courses to complete your program of study in the final semester.
Additional Requirements
Don’t work without the appropriate work authorization.
Never work more than 20 hours per week while you are a registered student during the fall or the spring semesters. Always consult with International Student Affairs about any off-campus internships or work. You must have work authorization before training or beginning employment.
Follow DePauw Policies and U.S. Laws and Immigration Regulations
You must comply with all of DePauw’s academic and student conduct policies as well as all U.S. federal and state laws.
Notify us if you change your address
International students and graduates on OPT and STEM-extension should ensure that their addresses with DePauw (in E-services and the International Student Portal) are correct and up-to-date. Notify us of an address change within 10 days of any move.
Keep your Passport valid
All students and graduates on OPT and STEM-extension must have a valid passport. If you need to renew your passport, begin the process well in advance of the expiration date. Most consulates and embassies in the United States for other countries have information on their websites for citizens instructing them on how to renew their passport while in the United States.
Notify Us if you Plan to Transfer
Transferring to another college or university in the United States–or planning to pursue another higher degree (Masters, Ph.D) at another university? You will need to reach out to ISA for information about how to complete the necessary immigration paperwork. For students pursuing post-graduate studies elsewhere, this needs to be done before the end of your grace period.
Apply early for an extension to your degree
If you need more time to complete your degree, you should contact ISA as soon as possible. ISA cannot extend your program end date on your I-20 or DS-2019 after your program end date.