A Legal Guide for F‐1 Visa Students

Hey there!

If you’ve got your visa, your bags are (mostly) packed or you’ve arrived in the US, and you’re just weeks away from starting classes.

But before orientation kicks off, there’s something really important you need to understand - how to stay in legal status once you arrive.

As an F-1 international student, there are rules you need to follow to stay compliant with U.S. immigration regulations. Messing this up, even by accident, could cost you your visa. Let’s make sure that never happens.

Key Terms You Need to Know

• DSO (Designated School Official):
  This is the school official who manages your SEVIS record and signs your I-20. They are your go-to person for anything visa-related - work authorization, travel, class enrollment, emergencies, you name it.

• SEVIS (Student & Exchange Visitor Information System):
  A U.S. government system that tracks your student record. Your school updates SEVIS to reflect your enrollment, address, major changes, and more.

• I-20:
  The most important document you'll carry. Issued by your school, it proves your eligibility to study in the U.S. and must be kept updated and signed for travel.

• I-94:
  Your official record of entry into the U.S. This confirms your arrival and legal stay: i94.cbp.dhs.gov

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Stay Enrolled, Stay Legal

To stay in status, you must:

• Register for a full course load (typically 12 credits per semester for undergrads)

• Not drop below full-time without DSO approval

• Keep your address, phone number, and major up to date with your DSO

• Renew your I-20 before it expires

• Don’t work off-campus without authorization

Missing any of the above? You risk a SEVIS termination, which can lead to deportation. Not worth it.

Can I Work On My Visa?

Yes, but with limits:

On-Campus Jobs
You're allowed to work up to 20 hours/week during the semester and full-time during breaks at jobs on campus - like the library, cafeteria, or research labs.

Off-Campus Internships (CPT & OPT):
You’ll need special authorization to do any off-campus work.

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training):
  Work or internships tied to your academic program. Requires DSO approval and must be authorized before you begin.

• OPT (Optional Practical Training):
  Up to 12 months of work authorization after graduation (or during breaks, part-time). You apply through USCIS and it takes 2–3 months to process, so timing matters.

• STEM OPT Extension:
  If you're in a STEM field, you can extend your OPT by 24 additional months, but you must apply on time and work for an E-verified employer.

Can I Travel During the Semester?

Generally, no. You should not leave the U.S. during the semester unless it’s an emergency and you’ve spoken to your DSO. Traveling without a valid I-20 travel signature, or during required study periods, can result in being denied re-entry. Safe times to travel: winter break, spring break, and summer - with a valid visa and I-20 signed by your DSO within the last 6 months.

What Happens If I Mess Up?

If you violate your status - whether by falling below the required credits, working without authorization, or staying past your I-20 end date - your SEVIS record may be terminated. In most cases, that means you’ll need to leave the country immediately, and you might face serious issues re-entering in the future.

But don’t panic - your DSO is there to help. Always talk to them before you make any changes to your classes, work plans, or travel.

You're about to start a life-changing adventure. Staying in legal status doesn’t have to be scary - you just need the right information and a few good habits.

And we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Best,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡