It is very important for international students to stay in lawful immigration status at all times. Falling out of status means that you will no longer be eligible for any F-1 benefits, including OPT and employment authorization. In some cases, being out
of status may result in you being put in removal procedures (deportation). Immigration rules change frequently; it is your responsibility as an F-1 and J-1 student to read all emails from the Office of International Programs to stay
informed about immigration regulations.
- Maintaining Full-Time Enrollment
- The exception to the full-time enrollment requirement is when you are in your final semester of degree study at LSUA. In such a case you must officially file for graduation prior to enrolling part-time and the student’s graduation date is posted in the LSUA system.
- F-1 students may not drop below a full course of study without prior advising from an academic advisor and International Student Coordinator.
- Maintaining a Valid I-20 Form
- Your I-20 has an expiration date. If your I-20 is going to expire before you complete your program of studies, you must apply for an extension at least two weeks prior to the expiration date.
- An F-1 student who is unable to meet the program completion date on the I-20 may be granted an extension only if the student has continually maintained status and the delays were caused by medical reasons or compelling academic, such as changes of major.
- Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable for program extensions.
- If a student does not apply for an extension of his or her I-20 until after the program end date noted on the I-20, the student is out of status and must apply for reinstatement.