Immigration and F-1 Visa Requirements
As an international student in the U.S., keeping your F-1 visa and I-20 form current is important. The F-1 visa lets you enter the U.S., and the I-20 allows you to stay here while you study.
At ORU, the Office of International Student Relations issues your I-20. However, it’s your responsibility to maintain your status while studying in the U.S.
To stay in good standing with your F-1 visa, ensure you are complying with the following guidelines.
- Report in person to a DSO upon entering the U.S. to study. This can be fulfilled by completing the International Student Check-In at the ISC or ISR.
- Pursue a full course of study at your current school. For ORU, this is a minimum of 12 credit hours of residential classes.
- Make normal progress towards completing your course of study by completing your degree before the completion date on your I-20.
- File an appropriate extension form for your I-20 if additional time is required to complete your degree.
- Report a change of major, minor, or academic level to a DSO to receive an updated I-20 form.
- Abide by the F-1 grace period rules, which is 60 days after completing your program to pursue a new academic level of study, OPT, or return home.
- Not work, either on or off-campus, unless specifically authorized by university policy, CPT, or OPT.
You’ll find all the links to keep your I-20 form current below.
Declare a Change of Major
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As an F-1 student, you are legally required to notify a DSO if you change your major or minor.
Obtain a Travel Signature
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To maintain your F-1 visa status, you need a valid DSO signature on your I-20 for international travel.
Request a New I-20
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Request a new I-20 if it’s lost, damaged, or if travel signatures are full.
Work Off-Campus Through CPT
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CPT offers international students the opportunity to work off-campus while pursuing their degree. It’s a great way to gain hands-on experience in your field of study before graduating.
Launch Your Career with OPT
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OPT allows international students to stay in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation to gain practical experience in their major field of study.
Connect with a DSO
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Connect with a Designated School Official (DSO) at ORU for personalized guidance on your immigration and visa-related questions.