International Students

Start your journey as an international student here.

F-1 Status Requirements

F-1 student status is a legal immigration status regulated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Students are responsible for understanding and complying with all F-1 requirements at all times. Failure to maintain status may result in the loss of F-1 benefits and the requirement to depart the United States.

The International Center is here to answer your questions and provide guidance, but maintaining F-1 status is ultimately your responsibility.

Important Reminders About Your F-1 Status

Full-time Enrollment

F-1 students must be enrolled full time during required academic semesters.

  • Full time enrollment at Schoolcraft College is defined as 12 credit hours per required semester
  • Online courses: Only up to 3 credits of online or synchronous courses may count toward the full-time requirement per semester

Exceptions to full-time enrollment are limited and require prior authorization from a Designated School Official (DSO)

Make Academic Progress

Students must:

  • Make normal progress toward completing their degree
  • Enroll in courses required for their program of study
  • Complete the program by the end date listed on the Form I-20 (or request an extension before it expires)

Academic difficulties, probation, or dismissal may impact F-1 status.

Keep Your Immigration Documents Valid

You must maintain valid immigration documents at all times:

  • Passport: Must be valid at least 6 months into the future
  • Form I-20: Must be accurate and up to date
  • I-94 record: Must indicate F-1 status and “D/S” (Duration of Status)

Report any errors or document issues to the International Center immediately.

Limit Employment to Authorized Work Only

Employment is restricted for F-1 students.

  • On-campus employment is limited to 20 hours per week during the semester
  • Off-campus employment (CPT, OPT, or Severe Economic Hardship) requires specific authorization
  • Working without authorization—even for one hour—is a violation of F-1 status

Always confirm employment eligibility with your DSO before starting work.

Report Changes Promptly

Students must report certain changes to their DSO within 10 days, including:

  • Change of U.S. address
  • Change of name
  • Change of major, degree level, or funding source
  • Plans to transfer schools or withdraw from classes

Failure to report changes may result in a SEVIS violation.

Program Completion, Transfer or Early Departure

If you plan to:

  • Graduate early
  • Extend your program
  • Transfer to another U.S. institution
  • Take a leave of absence
  • Depart the U.S. before completing your program

You must notify your DSO in advance to ensure proper SEVIS reporting.

Travel & Reentry

Before traveling outside the U.S., make sure you have:

  • A valid passport
  • A valid F-1 visa
  • A Form I-20 with a travel signature dated within the last 12 months (or 6 months if on OPT)

Travel without proper documentation may prevent reentry to the U.S.