Current Students

All international students on an F-1 Visa must enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours each winter and fall semester. Only one online class can count toward the required 12 credit minimum. If you need help finding and enrolling in the appropriate number of on-campus or hybrid/blended courses, please make an appointment with an academic counselor or advisor by calling 269-488-4040.

1. Keep your passport current.
2. Maintain full-time enrollment.
3. Do not accept employment without authorization.
4. Report any changes in name or contact information to the International Office and Admissions, Records and Registration.
5. Report any changes in program of study to the International Office.
6. Do not travel outside of the United States without the proper documents and signatures.
7. File a program extension if you need more time than allowed on your I-20.
8. If you plan to transfer to another school, you must notify the DSO beforehand.
9. Carry health insurance.
10. Make sure your tuition balance is paid. Failure to pay tuition can result in loss of enrollment and status.

Refer to the consulate interview guide for better understanding.

View the International Student Handbook for additional details.

Consequences of Being Out-of-Status:

• No verification letter stating you are in full-time status.
• No employment on-campus or off-campus.
• You may become ineligible for practical training.
• You may have difficulty obtaining a renewal of your F-1 visa.
• You may be barred from re-entering the U.S.
• You may become ineligible to transfer to another university.
• You risk possible deportation from the United States.
• You might be denied an extension of stay or reinstatement from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).

Travel Signature

Before traveling internationally, all international students must receive a travel signature from the International Student Services office. Contact beforehand to make an appointment. Please schedule your appointment at least 30 days before your planned trip.

Enrollment Verification

Students requiring a letter that verifies their enrollment can contact

Program Extension

To request a program extension students must first meet with an advisor to determine the number of additional semesters needed. Send the advisors recommendations to with a request for a program extension.

Reprint I-20

Need a new I-20? Please make an appointment with the Designated School Official (DSO) by emailing or calling 269-488-4040.

Reinstatement

To apply for reinstatement, schedule an appointment with the International Student Services office. Prior to the scheduled meeting, review the reinstatement application and instructions provided by USCIS.

Change of Program

Program changes must be approved by both the DSO and your academic advisor. Once your change of program is approved and your DegreeWorks has been officially updated, a new I-20 will be issued.

Change of Contact Information

If your contact information has changed, you are required to update it with the International Student Services off within 10 days. You must also submit the Personal Information Update Form to the office of Admission, Records and Registration.

On-Campus Employment

International students holding an F-1 visa are eligible to work on-campus from the start of their program. Students must follow the steps below to be considered for an on-campus job.

1. Obtain a signed On-Campus Employment Authorization Form from the DSO.
2. Search for on-campus job openings.
3. Apply online and submit all of the appropriate application materials, including a resume and cover letter.
4. Interview for the position
5. After receiving an offer, apply for social security number.
   • Contact International Student Services for more information on how to apply for a social security number.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is work experience in the form of an internship that counts for academic credit toward your program of study. Students are eligible to apply for CPT after completing one full academic year. To qualify for CPT, you must also be in a program that requires completion of the internship course and meet the academic standing requirements to participate in the internship program. View more details and restrictions regarding CPT on the Study in the States web page. o begin the process of applying for CPT, arrange an appointment with International Student Services.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT is work experience that relates to the program of study but does not need to count for academic credit. Students are eligible to apply for OPT after completing one full academic year. Applying for OPT during a program of study is considered Pre-Completion OPT and applying after a program of study is considered Post-Completion OPT. View more details and restrictions regarding OPT on the Study in the States web page. To begin the process of applying for OPT arrange an appointment with International Student Services.

Driver's License

To learn about the process of applying for a drivers license students should consult the Steps to Apply for a Driver’s License guide sheet. For further questions students should arrange an appointment with International Student Services office.