Tips & Responsibilities to Maintaining Status

  • Status – This is your legal immigration status (F-1 or J-1). This status is noted at the US port of Entry on the I-94 and I-20 forms.
  • Remaining in status -
    • Be enrolled as a full-time student at all times and make valid progress towards degree completion
      • Undergraduate Students - minimum of 12 credit hours
      • Gradaute Students - minimum of 9 credit hours
      • Note: any deviation from the above enrollment must have authorization from the International Students & Scholars Office prior to reducing your course load. There are very specific conditions that must be met for the authorization to be approved. 
    • Always maintain a valid I-20 and be sure to have page 3 signed once a year
    • Engage in on-campus work only. You must have authorization to engage in any off campus work
      • Note: exchange students on F-1 visas are not eligible for curricular/optional practical training
      • Note: you are not eligible for CPT/OPT until you have completed one full academic year
    • Maintain all health requirements mandated by New York State
    • Maintain all financial obligations
  • Visa Stamp - A visa stamp is entered in your passport to allow you entry into the United States as a student. You do not have to have a valid visa during  entire length of your study. Please see the Travel section for more information on travel guidelines. 
  • Passport - you must have a valid passport at all times and if you are travelling the expiration must be at least 6 months in the future of your return trip.
  • SEVIS I-20 - Keep your SEVIS I-20 current and have your I-20 signed once a year to ensure your status remains valid.    You will need a new I-20 if you change majors and/or your degree sought. 
  • Change of Address - You are required by law to notify the ISSO of any changes to your address in Potsdam or the United States within 10 days of your move. Once this change is noted – your International Advisor will update your SEVIS record. Failure to do so could place your student status in jeopardy. You may complete a change of address here.
  • Never engage in unauthorized employment