Academic Reduced Course Load (RCL)

If you experience initial academic difficulties, you may request authorization to reduce your course load below full-time for one semester.

If approved, you must remain enrolled in at least 6 credits, or half of the required clock hours for your program.

You may use this option only once per degree program.

Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify for a Reduced Course Load based on academic difficulty if you experience one of the following:

Improper course level placement (for example, incorrect placement in a course for your academic level)
Initial difficulty with the English language during your first semester
Initial difficulty with reading requirements during your first semester
Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods during your first semester

Key Guidelines for Eligible Students

To use this Reduced Course Load option:

You must remain enrolled full-time until Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) approves your request. If you drop below full-time enrollment without VIS approval, it may be considered a violation of your F-1 status.
You may use this benefit only once per degree level.
After VIS approval, you must maintain enrollment in at least 6 credits (or half of the required clock hours for your program).

Course Withdrawals & Financial Responsibility

You are responsible for withdrawing from courses by university deadlines. Review the academic calendar for course drop and withdrawal deadlines. Financial charges may apply if you withdraw after certain dates.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to request a Reduced Course Load for academic difficulty:

Request a recommendation letter from the IEC department or your Academic Advisor. The letter must be on department letterhead.
Log in to accessVIS using your NetID and password.
Select F-1 Student Services from the left menu.
Complete the Academic Reduced Course Load request.
Upload the following documents:
- A personal statement explaining the academic difficulties you are experiencing
- A recommendation letter from the IEC department or your Academic Advisor
- The Late Drop or Withdrawal Form, if required

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. If your request is approved, you will receive a new Form I-20 that shows the authorized Reduced Course Load.