F-1 and J-1 Student Enrollment Requirements

Federal regulations require students in F-1 and J-1 status to maintain full-time enrollment during required semesters, follow limits on online coursework, and make normal progress toward completing their academic programs.

Full-Time Enrollment Requirements

Students in F-1 and J-1 status must enroll full time during the fall and spring semesters unless VIS approves an exception.

* Hybrid courses include both online instruction and required in-person attendance. For immigration purposes, hybrid courses count as in-person courses.

Online Course Limits

Students may count only one online course or up to 3 online credits toward the minimum credits required for full-time enrollment each semester. They may take additional online courses after meeting both the total credit and in-person or hybrid requirements.

When helping students select courses, confirm that their schedules meet these requirements.

Reduced Course Load (RCL)

Students who need to enroll below full time must receive approval from VIS before dropping courses or reducing their enrollment. An exception may be available for certain academic or medical circumstances or when a student needs fewer credits to complete their degree.

If you receive a request from VIS to verify a student’s remaining degree requirements, review your department’s records and respond accurately. Do not advise students to drop below full time before they receive VIS approval.

Summer and Winter Enrollment

Summer and winter enrollment requirements depend on when a student begins or completes their academic program.

• Students starting a program: Students who begin their program in summer must meet full-time enrollment requirements.

• Students completing a program: Students who finish their degree in summer or winter must follow the applicable enrollment requirements or receive approval for an exception.

• Students continuing their program: Summer and winter enrollment is generally optional unless the term is required for the student’s program or immigration circumstances.

If you are unsure whether a student must enroll during a summer or winter term, refer them to VIS before making changes to their academic plans.

Grades and Enrollment Changes

Certain grades, including W (Withdrawal) and NR/NF/NU (No Record of Attendance), do not count toward full-time enrollment. These grades may cause a student to fall below the required credit minimum.

If you notice that a student has withdrawn from courses or received one of these grades, encourage them to contact VIS promptly. Do not assume that a student remains eligible based solely on their original course registration.

Your Role as an Academic Department

To help students maintain their immigration status:

• Review course selections and degree requirements carefully.

• Refer students to VIS before they drop courses or make enrollment changes that could affect their immigration status.

• Respond promptly and accurately to academic verification requests from VIS.

• Confirm remaining degree requirements based on your department’s records.

• Contact VIS if you are unsure whether a proposed enrollment plan meets immigration requirements.