Essential Information

F-1 VISA: This document is a multicolored stamp placed in your passport at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy. The visa is the "key" necessary for entering the U.S. It indicates your name, classification, the number of times you may enter the U.S. on this visa (in most cases, multiple entries - designated as M - are allowed), and the visa's expiration date. The expiration date on the visa reflects the last date that you are permitted to enter (or re-enter) the U.S. as an International Student. If the date has already passed, you will need to reapply for an F-1 student visa to be allowed back into the U.S.

Form 1-94 Arrival/Departure Record: This document is a small stamp often opposite the visa page in your passport that is placed there upon arrival in the U.S. The I-94 indicates your arrival date, the visa classification, and the length of authorized stay in the U.S. For F-1 students, the length of stay is often noted as D/S which stands for "Duration of Status." D/S allows a student to stay in the U.S. as long as he or she remains in status as an F-1 student.

Status: This is the permission to be in the U.S. for a specific purpose for a period of time. F-1 student status is dependent on students’ engaging in full-time study. At Fisher College, undergraduate students must be enrolled in 12 credits to engage in full-time study. Full-time study also takes into consideration attendance. Students with chronic attendance issues will be considered out of status. If you have any questions about your status, please reach out to one of the DSOs.

USCIS: The government agency responsible for the admission, control and status of all aliens in the United States. The regulations of the USCIS are contained in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

OPT: A benefit of maintaining F-1 status. Its purpose is to allow the student to gain practical experience directly related to the student's field of study. Granted by USCIS, OPT is granted based on documents submitted by applicant and the school's recommendation. Total length is 12 months, not extendable and may be used during school breaks, for part-time work while school is in session or after graduation provided the eligibility criteria are met and authorization is received. Work must be directly related to the student's area of study.