International Student Program

Maintaining F-1 Student Status

All F-1 students must follow the Department of Homeland Security and USCIS regulations in order to keep their status in the United States

Students must:

  •   Study full time (at least 12 units per semester) during fall and spring semesters
  •   Students must show proof of health insurance by the end of the 1st week of each semester. 
  •   Pay all enrollment fees according to the payment deadlines.
  •   Have a current Educational Plan on file with the International Student Office. 
  •   Have a valid passport while studying in the US
  •   Extend your I-20 before it expires if you need more time to complete your degree
  •   Depart the US, or transfer to another school, within 60 days after finishing your program

You must see the International Student Counselor to request permission before any of the following:

  1. Stopping your studies at Hartnell College (if you are withdrawing, taking a leave of absence or stopping your studies for any reason)
  2. Drop below 12 units, you are required to obtain permission in advance from the International Student Advisor.
  3. Keep the International Student Advisor updated on any of your address, name or major changes. Changes must be reported to the International Student Office within 10 days.
  4. Not registering for fall or spring semester
  5. Completing your program (if you complete your program of study earlier than the completion date in section 5 of your I-20)

Falling out of Status

If you fail to follow the F-1 status regulations outlined above, you will be terminated in the SEVIS system and will have to apply for Reinstatement through the USCIS. It is not enough to simply register for full time classes the following term. You must speak with the International Student Advisor to begin the process of regaining your F-1 status and find out about the consequences of your status violation.

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