/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

Final Semester Reduced Course Load (RCL)

If you are in your final semester and you need fewer than a full-time course load to complete your degree, you may request a Reduced Course Load (RCL) authorization. You must receive approval from Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) before dropping below full-time enrollment.

Key Guidelines

If you have one course remaining

  • You must take the course in person.

  • The course cannot be online or distance education.

If you have more than one course remaining

  • You may count only one online course (up to 3 credits) toward your enrollment requirements.

  • All other courses must be in-person or hybrid courses that require physical attendance.

  • Example: If you have 9 credits remaining to complete your degree as an undergraduate student, only 3 credits can be fully online, and 6 credits must be in-person or hybrid.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a final semester Reduced Course Load:

  • Your Academic Advisor(s) or Academic Department must confirm that you need fewer than a full-time course load to graduate.

  • Your advisor must confirm that you will complete your degree by the end of the semester.

  • You must submit the Academic Reduced Course Load request in accessVIS before the Add/Drop deadline listed on the academic calendar.

If you realize after the Add/Drop deadline that this is your final semester, you may still submit a request. However, you must remain enrolled full-time until VIS approves your Reduced Course Load.

Dropping below full-time enrollment without VIS approval is a violation of your J-1 status. This may result in termination of your SEVIS record and loss of immigration benefits.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to request a final semester Reduced Course Load:

  1. Log in to accessVIS using your NetID and password.

  2. Select J-1 Student Services from the left menu.

  3. Submit the Reduced Course Load request.

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. If your request is approved, you will receive a new Form DS-2019.

Important Information for Summer or Winter Graduation

If you complete your degree during a summer or winter session, that term is considered your final required semester for immigration reporting purposes.

This means:

  • You must follow normal J-1 enrollment rules during that term.
  • The term is not considered a vacation period.
  • You must follow the online course limits that apply to J-1 students.

If you receive an approved Reduced Course Load for a summer or winter term, you must enroll in at least 1 credit during that session.