Less Than Full Time Enrollment for F1 International Students: What You Need To Know
F-1 international students in the U.S. are typically required to maintain full-time enrollment during the academic year to stay in compliance with their visa status. Full-time status is usually 12 credits for undergraduate students and 9 credits for graduate students. However, in certain situations, F-1 students can enroll in less than full-time coursework without jeopardizing their visa status.
When is Less Than Full-Time Enrollment Allowed?
U.S. immigration regulations allow for reduced course loads (RCL) in specific, limited circumstances. These include:
Academic Difficulties
In your first year of study, if you are facing academic challenges such as language barriers, unfamiliarity with American teaching methods, or improper course placement, you can request a reduced course load for one semester.
Medical Conditions
If you have a serious medical condition, you may be eligible for less than full-time enrollment. You will need a licensed medical doctor, clinical psychologist, or doctor of osteopathy to provide documentation recommending the reduction. You can apply for medical RCL for up to 12 months.
Completion of Study—(Most Common Reason)
In your final semester, if you need fewer courses to complete your degree, you may enroll in less than full-time. Students will need to complete and submit to the ISS Office a Less Than Full-Time Enrollment Form.
How to Apply for a Reduced Course Load:
Provide Documentation
For completion of study, students will need to complete and submit to the ISS Office a Less Than Full-Time Enrollment Form
Less Than Full-Time Enrollment Form - Undergraduate
Less Than Full-Time Enrollment Form - Graduate
For medical RCL, students need documentation from a licensed healthcare professional.
For academic difficulties, your PDSO will guide you on any additional paperwork required.
Receive Approval Before Dropping Classes
You cannot reduce your course load without prior authorization from your DSO. If you drop below full-time without permission, you risk violating your F-1 visa status, which could lead to deportation.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Impact on Work Authorization
Reduced course loads might affect your eligibility for certain types of work authorization, such as CPT or OPT. Always check with your PDSO before making any changes.
Limited Use
Reduced course loads for academic difficulties can only be used once during your program, so it is important to use this option judiciously.
Health Insurance Requirements
Some universities may require students to maintain full-time enrollment to be eligible for health insurance. Check with your school to ensure your coverage isn’t impacted by a reduced course load.