The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) provides advice on F-1 and J-1 visa regulations and U.S. employment authorization to assist international students in achieving their personal, professional and academic goals.
This page is designed to answer the most commonly asked questions we receive from international students. Students are also encouraged to seek advice via email or phone advising during our drop-in hours whenever necessary.
Learn about:
- Passports
- F-1 and J-1 student visas
- Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
- Immigration documents - Forms I-20 and DS-2019
- I-94 arrival records
- Status vs. Visa
Learn about:
- Health Insurance Requirement and U.S. Health Care
- Reporting U.S. address and emergency contact information
- The full-time requirement and exceptions (Reduced Course Load)
- Online, in-person/face-to-face and hybrid classes
- Taking classes at another school (Concurrent enrollment)
- Academic standing and status in the U.S.
- SEVIS termination, loss of status and regain status
Learn about:
- On-campus employment
- Unpaid internships and volunteering
- Off-campus employment
- F-1 students: Optional Practical Training (OPT), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Economic Hardship
- J-1 students: Academic Training, Economic Hardship
Learn about:
- Travel alerts
- Travel within the United States
- Travel outside the United States
- Travel to Mexico, Canada and adjacent islands
- Emergency travel
Learn about:
- CGE advising hours and contact information
Learn about:
- Preparing to return home
- The F-1 and J-1 grace period
- Academic and immigration considerations