Reducing Your Course Load
As an international student, you must request approval from your international student advisor before dropping any classes. Immigration regulations allow exceptions to the full-time registration requirement in very limited circumstances. Reduced course load can only be approved in the following circumstances.
- For academic reasons (one semester only during the entire program):
- English language difficulties
- Improper course placement
- If full-time enrollment would not be academically appropriate
- During the final semester in the student's degree program (one semester only)
- You must graduate at the end of the semester
- You will have a 60-day grace period for a one-time departure or transfer to another school, advancement to a higher degree level, change of nonimmigrant status or application for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
If you drop below a full course load without your international student advisor’s approval, you will be reported to SEVIS. Should this occur, your SEVIS record will be terminated, and you will lose your lawful F-1 or J-1 status, including employment eligibility and benefits. For immigration purposes, full-time enrollment is defined as:
- 12 Hours - Undergraduate Students
- 9 Hours - Graduate Students
- 6 Hours - Graduate and Teaching Assistants
To Apply for Reduced Course Load
To request approval to drop classes, submit a
Reduced Course Load Form online. You will be notified of the outcome of your request via email within one week after online submission. If you receive approval from the international student advisor, please go to the Service Center to drop the approved courses.
