/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

Medical Reduced Course Load (RCL)

A Medical Reduced Course Load (RCL) allows you to reduce your course load below full-time enrollment if you have a documented medical or mental health condition. In some cases, you may receive authorization to enroll in zero credits if your condition prevents you from attending classes.

This authorization allows you to remain in the United States and maintain your J-1 status while receiving treatment.

You may receive up to 12 months of medical Reduced Course Load per degree level. VIS approves medical RCL one semester at a time.

If your medical condition requires zero credits, you should also request a Medical Leave of Absence through the Registrar’s Office or the Graduate School.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Medical Reduced Course Load, you must provide documentation from your treating healthcare provider.

Your documentation must include:

  • A letter on official letterhead from a licensed medical doctor, psychiatrist, doctor of osteopathy, or clinical psychologist

  • The number of credits recommended, including zero credits if necessary

  • The term or length of time the reduced course load is recommended

  • The healthcare provider’s physical signature

You must submit new medical documentation each semester if you need additional semesters of Medical RCL.

You may download the Medical Reduced Course Load Certification Letter template to give to your healthcare provider.

Sample Medical RCL Certification Letter

How to Apply

Follow these steps to request a Medical Reduced Course Load:

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

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

  3. Complete the Reduced Course Load request.

  4. Upload the letter from your healthcare provider with your application.

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

Employment Restrictions

If you are approved for a medical Reduced Course Load with zero credits, you are not eligible for on-campus employment because active enrollment is required.

You are also not eligible for off-campus employment authorization, because J-1 regulations require full-time enrollment for employment eligibility.