Your visa status in the U.S. is ultimately a matter between yourself and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS expects you to learn and understand the requirements and benefits of your F-1 visa status, to meet those requirements and maintain status at all times while in the U.S. You also have the responsibility to inform the International Education & Programs office at Cal Poly of any changes that might affect your relationship as a student here and your ability or interest to maintain F-1 visa status.

There are specific reporting requirements for F-1 international students. The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a mechanism to electronically transmit the required information to the U. S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) throughout a student’s stay in the United States. Schools are required to regularly update the USCIS through SEVIS regarding quarterly enrollment, change of address, change of major or degree objective, school transfers, etc. Maintaining visa status and full-time enrollment is critical and regaining status with the USCIS may only be possible in limited circumstances.

The International Student Advisor is available at the IEP office to help you understand your immigration responsibilities and apply for USCIS benefits. You are encouraged to meet with the Advisor in order to make informed decisions before you take any action that could result in the loss of your visa status. Please also read your International Student Handbook and check the IEP web site: iep.calpoly.edu for updated information.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend the school listed on your currently valid I-20.
• The California State University requires students in F-1 status in the U.S. to carry health insurance. Minimum coverage must provide up to $50,000 per accident or illness; $7,500 for repatriation of remains; $10,000 for medical evacuation to the home country; and the deductible not exceed $200 per accident or illness. Proof of coverage must be provided to the IEP office in order to enroll in classes.
• Enroll and complete full-time coursework (a minimum of 12 units for undergraduate & 8 units for graduate students) during fall, winter and spring quarters.
• Notify the IEP office immediately if you change your major, degree objective or want to transfer to a different educational institution.
• Report any legal changes to your name, or any change of address to the IEP office within 10 days of the change.
• Make satisfactory progress toward completion of your degree.
• Complete your degree by the date listed on your I-20, or apply for an extension before it expires.
• Do not work off-campus without authorization from the USCIS and the IEP office, and limit on-campus employment to a total of 20 hours or less while school is in session.
• Notify the International Student Advisor at the IEP office before you begin any on-campus employment.
• See the advisor for a letter if you wish to apply for a Social Security Number.
• Request a travel signature on your I-20 at least one week before leaving the U.S. in order to return and continue your degree program.
• Obey all federal and state laws.
• Respond completely and truthfully if the USCIS requests any information from you.
• Keep your passport valid at all times (if expired, renew at your country’s Consulate or Embassy in the U.S.)
• When not traveling, keep all of your documents in a safe place. There is no need to carry a passport on campus or in town. You can get a California Identification Card at the local DMV office.

Apply for optional practical training before the end of your final quarter.

BENEFITS

• Enrolled students are eligible for immediate part-time on-campus employment, 20 hours or less per week while school is in session and full-time during vacation periods. Full-time employment is any amount of time more than 20 hours per week.
• After one academic year in F-1 status students can apply to the USCIS for off-campus work authorization if needed because of Severe Economic Hardship or for Practical Training.
• Can stay in the US with an expired visa stamp as long as student status is maintained.
  There is no restriction on travel anywhere within the U.S.
• Eligible to transfer to other educational institutions within the U.S. without having to leave the U.S. by following USCIS transfer procedures.
• Summer Quarter is considered vacation and USCIS regulations do not require any enrollment.
• Full-time enrollment is not required during the quarter you apply to graduate (your last quarter of enrollment at Cal Poly). Fill out the Final Quarter Form and submit to IEP for approval.
• Have 60 days to depart the U.S. after completion of a degree or Optional Practical Training. Can remain longer if waiting for Optional Practical Training employment authorization or to begin a new degree program at the next available term.
• A student may be authorized for 12 months of practical training, and becomes eligible for another 12 months of practical training when he or she changes to a higher educational level.

CONTACT INFO

The IEP office is located in Building 38, Room 108
Phone: 805-756-1477 Fax: 805-756-5484

The International Student Advisor, Dr. Barbara Andre is in Building 38, Room 107
Phone: 805-756-5837

NOTE: The information obtained from the IEP Office should not be used as the sole source of information for making decisions that may affect one's legal status in the U.S. or one's right to study, teach, conduct research, or work. Each student is individually responsible for maintaining his or her visa status.