Important Considerations For The F-1 Visa
A. Those on a B-1/B-2 visa are not allowed to study before their status has been changed to F-1.
B. Students on an F-1 visa may not attend public primary schools or publicly funded adult education programs. Attendance at public secondary schools is limited to twelve months or less, and the school system must be repaid in full for the unsubsidized per capita cost of providing the education.
C. Students must obtain permission from the DSO to reduce their course load, and it can be reduced by half of the full-time course load. The course load may be reduced only once, unless there is a medical reason and then it may occur only for a maximum of 12 months. Students may also reduce their course load during their final term.
D. Students who wish to withdraw from their school must first gain permission to do so, and then must leave the U.S. within 15 days.
E. Always remember to report to the school within 30 days of the registration deadline.
F. F-1 students admitted to attend a public high school in the U.S. is restricted to 12 months of study.
G. Maintain a valid passport at all times.
H. Always maintain a valid I-20.