Enrollment Exceptions and Reduced Course Load Options
F-1 students are generally required to maintain full-time enrollment each academic
term. However, federal regulations permit certain exceptions when specific academic,
medical, or degree completion circumstances arise. This section explains the eligibility
requirements and application procedures for Reduced Course Loads (RCLs), including
academic, medical, and final semester authorizations. You will also find information
about concurrent enrollment, which allows eligible students to combine coursework
at multiple institutions while maintaining compliance with F-1 regulations.
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Academic RCL
An Academic Reduced Course Load allows you to enroll in less than full-time credits
if you are experiencing specific academic difficulties, or if you were improperly
placed in a course not appropriate for your academic level.
As an F-1 student, you may enroll in two different SEVIS-approved schools at the same
time, provided your combined enrollment meets the requirements for a full-time course
of study.
A Medical Reduced Course Load allows you to drop below full-time status, or not enroll
in any classes, if you are facing a temporary illness or a medical/mental health difficulty.
A Final Semester Reduced Course Load allows you to enroll in less than full-time credits
during your final semester if you need fewer courses to complete your degree.
