EIU Office of International Students and Scholars

Reportable Events/Maintaining F-1 Status

Maintaining your legal status as an F1 student in the United States is crucial for your academic and immigration compliance. Here are the important requirements you must remember to ensure you remain in good standing:

1. Report to OISS within 30 Days of the I-20 Start Date

It is mandatory to visit the International Students and Scholars Office (OISS) within 30 days of the start date listed on your I-20 (Item 5). Please bring your passport, I-20, and I-94 card with you to 2170 Blair Hall.

2. Always Enroll Full-Time

F-1 students must maintain full-time student status every semester:

• Undergraduate students: At least 12 credits per semester.
• Graduate students: At least 9 credits per semester.
• Rare exceptions may apply; consult with a Designated School Official (DSO) before dropping below full-time enrollment or taking a leave of absence.
• Online Course Allowance: F-1 regulations permit enrollment in one online course per semester.

3. Update Your Local Address within 10 Days of Moving

You must notify OISS within 10 days of changing your local address. Use the Change of Address form available here. Ensure you provide a physical residential address, not a PO Box or EIU department address.

4. Keep Your Immigration Documents Valid and Current

• Maintain valid copies of your immigration documents in a secure place, including:
• Passport pages with personal information and picture.
• Passport page containing the U.S. visa stamp.
• Both sides of your I-94 Form.
• Pages 1-3 of your I-20.
• Passport Renewal: Keep your passport valid throughout your stay in the U.S. Contact your country's consulate or embassy in the U.S. for renewal.
• F-1 Extension: Apply for an extension before the completion of the studies date on your I-20 if needed. Failure to extend before this date may result in loss of status.
• Change of Degree Program or Level: Obtain a new I-20 from OISS if changing degree levels or programs within EIU.

5. Discuss Transfer Plans with an OISS Advisor

If planning to transfer to another school, complete the immigration transfer procedure with OISS.

6. Notify OISS of a New Degree Program within 60 Days of Graduation

Inform OISS of your plans for further study within 60 days of graduating from your current degree program at EIU.

7. Never Work Off-Campus Without Prior Authorization

• On-campus Employment: F-1 students may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and 40 hours per week during breaks.
• Off-campus Employment: Off-campus work requires prior authorization. Seek advice and assistance from OISS staff.

8. Notify OISS When Leaving the U.S. or Changing Visa Status

Inform OISS when permanently leaving the U.S. or changing to another visa status.

9. Traveling Outside of the United States/Re-entering the U.S. after a Temporary Absence

To re-enter the U.S., ensure you have:

• Valid passport.
• Valid F-1 or F-2 visa stamp (except for Canadians).
• Current I-20 with a valid travel signature.
• Proof of financial support.
• Proof of enrollment.