Authorization for Reduced Course Load
Federal Regulations limit your ability to enroll less than full-time. If you cannot meet the full-time requirement you need to request an RCL. Dropping below full-time without an RCL is considered an unauthorized drop, which will endanger your immigration status.
Definition of Full Time
Undergraduate students, including those in post-baccalaureate programs, must register for and complete at least 4 courses (12 credit hours) per semester.
Graduate students must register for and complete a minimum of 2 courses (6 credit hours) per semester. If you are not enrolled full-time as defined here, please contact ISO immediately.
NOTE: F-1 visa holders may only enroll in one (1) online course per semester.
Unauthorized Drop Below Full Time
If you drop below full-time enrollment without authorization in advance from ISO, ISO is federally mandated to report this in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS); and you will lose your F-1 status.
Definition of Full Time
Undergraduate students, including those in post-baccalaureate programs, must register for and complete at least 4 courses (12 credit hours) per semester.
Graduate students must register for and complete a minimum of 2 courses (6 credit hours) per semester. If you are not enrolled full-time as defined here, please contact ISO immediately.
NOTE: F-1 visa holders may only enroll in one (1) online course per semester.
Unauthorized Drop Below Full Time
If you drop below full-time enrollment without authorization in advance from ISO, ISO is federally mandated to report this in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS); and you will lose your F-1 status.