Lawful Status

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How to stay in Status on your F1 Visa

Here are the requirements for maintaining lawful status. Please contact the international Counselor or Registrar with any question.

  1. Enroll and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester. Summer is optional unless you enter the U.S. on an I-20 that begins with the summer term.
  2. Not participate in any off-campus unauthorized employment.
  3. Never work more than 20 hours per work week on campus while school is in session.
  4. Have your I-20 signed by a DSO advisor before traveling out of the country, if you are planning to return to KCKCC.
  5. Get new I-20 whenever you change degree levels, majors, or institutions.
  6. Maintain a current passport and I-20. The I-20 is valid until the date indicated in item #5 or the date you finish your program, whichever comes first. If you have not completed your program, you can request an extension of your I-20. You must submit a new bank statement and make an appointment with the Registrar. You should request an extension I-20 at least 30 days prior to the expiration date.
  7. You must inform KCKCC any time you move.
  8. Please note that students in academic classes can only take one course via internet in any term to count toward a full course of study.
  9. See someone in the Admissions & Records Office if you have ANY questions BEFORE you do something different.

REMEMBER – It is always easier to stay in status than to get back in status

Reduction in Course Load

The new SEVIS system (Student Exchange System) is real-time. This means that if you withdraw from a class, you will immediately be reported to USCIS. Please make sure you maintain your full-time enrollment (12 credit hours) every fall and spring semester. (Summer is optional). Please remember that if you do not attend your classes, your instructor can withdraw you. Check the student handbook and courses syllabi for guidelines for your class.

There are certain situations when a student can take fewer than 12 credit hours and still maintain their legal F-1 status. Generally, these reasons include: last semester to graduate or a specific medical condition. Please make an appointment with the International Counselor to discuss your situation.