Maintaining Your International Student Visa

Understand the details of your F-1 status

Be a full-time student

Complete at least 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester to maintain your full-time F-1 student status. You do not need to enroll in summer classes unless you are a new F-1 student starting your program in the summer.

If you need to drop a class or fall below full-time status for any reason, contact International Student Services before making any changes. Your DSO can help you understand your options and avoid putting your F-1 status at risk.

Get authorization for employment or training

As an F-1 student, you may work part time on campus for up to 19.5 hours per week while school is in session. For more information about on-campus employment, visit International Student Services or Career Services.

Some F-1 students in approved programs may also qualify for practical training, such as internships or clinical experiences. Contact International Student Services for more information about eligibility and requirements.

Keep your documents current

• Make sure your passport is valid for six months from your date of enrollment.
• Apply for an extension on your I-20 form at least 30 days before it expires.
• If you move, report your new address to International Student Services as soon as possible.

Carry your documents with you

• Keep copies of your passport, I-94 card, and I-20 form with you everywhere you go in the Houston area.
• If you travel outside the Houston area, be sure to bring the original documents with you.
• If you plan to travel temporarily outside the U.S., you must get a travel endorsement on your I-20 from international student services.

Keep your school records current

You should attend only the school listed on your Form I-20. If you want to transfer to or from San Jacinto College, contact International Student Services at San Jacinto College and/or the international office at your future institution. You must follow the international student transfer process to maintain your F-1 status.

If you want to enroll at more than one school at the same time, you must obtain a concurrent enrollment letter from your current institution and complete the international student concurrent enrollment process at the other institution.

Plan for the future

Stay in touch with International Student Services

Your Designated School Official (DSO) helps you maintain your F-1 status so you can stay on track with your educational goals.

To avoid violating your visa requirements, you must report any changes to your personal contact information within 10 days of the change.