F-1 Student Overview
Maintaining F-1 Student Status
International students in the United States should prioritize maintaining their F-1 status. Any violation of the F-1 regulations could result in the termination of your F-1 SEVIS record. Apart from losing F-1-related benefits, such termination can lead to severe immigration consequences. Make sure you understand the F-1 visa requirements, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to ISSS for assistance.
ÌýÌýReport your initial arrival at CU Boulder
- Submit the Immigration Check-In, Immigration Essentials Quiz Grade Submission, and Title IX Certificate Submission e-forms.
ÌýÌýMaintain full-time enrollment every fall and spring semester
- Full-time enrollment is only required in the summer if it is your first or final semester
- Report your final semester to ISSS: all students enrolling in their final semester must submit the Confirmation of Final Semester e-Form, available in MyISSS portal
ÌýÌýReport new addresses within 10 days of every move so your SEVIS record can be updated
- Active Students: Update your address in
- Students on OPT: Update address in and
ÌýÌýDo not work without authorization or beyond allowable employment limits
- Abide by on-campus employment regulations and limitations
- Obtain prior authorization for CPT, Pre-Completion OPT, Post-Completion OPT, STEM OPT, and Severe Economic Hardship employment and comply with related reporting and unemployment rules
ÌýÌýKeep your I-20 up-to-date
- Report all changes of biographical, degree program, and financial support information to ISSS
- Follow proper procedures for extending your I-20, changing educational levels or programs, and transferring schools
ÌýÌýMake normal progress towards completing the course of study documented on your I-20
ÌýÌýMaintain required immigration documents including a valid passport and I-94 throughout your stay in the U.S.
ÌýÌýTravel with required documents for re-entry to the U.S. in student status
ÌýÌýAbide by F-1 grace period rules
- F-1 students have a 60-day grace period at the end of their F-1 program.
- During the grace period, you cannot take part in any studies or employment opportunities and also cannot exit and re-enter the U.S. as an F-1 student. Ìý
- If you do not complete your program, no grace period exists and you will need to depart the U.S. immediately.