E-mail this pageMaintenance of Immigration Status
How to Remain in F-1 Status
Generally, students are admitted to the United States in F-1 status for a period known as "duration of status" (D/S). It is extremely important for a non-immigrant individual to maintain his or her status while in the United States. Failure to maintain the terms and conditions of nonimmigrant status is a ground for deportation.
Working with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can be very complicated and time-consuming. The Designated School Officials (DSO’s) at ISS are the most knowledgeable people on-campus and they are authorized to help you process immigration forms and documents. Never rely on information that you pick up from friends and other students because circumstances may vary from one student to another and the regulations are modified from time to time. DSO's must work within the federal immigration laws and regulations. When processing your request, please make sure you allow plenty of time for your request to be processed and plan ahead. Have your documents, such as your passport, I-94 card, I-20 with you when you come to the International Student Services office for immigration assistance.
To maintain status, the student must comply with the following:
- Pursue a "full course of study" at the school listed on the currently valid SEVIS Form I-20 during every fall & spring semester. Students are not expected to attend classes during summer & winter break. At SUNY Plattsburgh, to be "full-time" you must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester
- Make normal progress towards a degree, by completing studies before the program completion date on the Form SEVIS I-20. This means you should maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.
- Keep Form I-20 valid by following proper procedures (in a timely manner) for:
- Extension of stay
- Change in educational levels or programs of study
- Transfer of schools
- Do not remain in the U.S. for longer than 60 days after completing the full course of study (graduation) unless you have applied for practical training, changed educational levels or immigration status, or transferred to another school.
- Keep passport valid at all times [8 C.F.R. 214.1(a)(3)] (contact your home country's embassy/consulate in the U.S to renew your passport)
- Report a change of address to USCIS on form AR-11 within 10 days of the change. You can download form AR-11 or pick up a copy at ISS.
- Abide by rules requiring disclosure of information and prohibition on criminal activity.
You cannot continue your education in the U.S. without valid F-1 status. Consult an International Student Advisor if you have any questions.
Questions, Comments, Suggestions?
If you have any questions about international admission or financial aid at SUNY-Plattsburgh, please contact:
International Student Services
State University of New York at Plattsburgh
Kehoe Administration Building, Room 209
101 Broad Street
Plattsburgh, New York 12901 USA
Phone: (518) 564-3287
Fax: (518) 564-3292
E-mail: iss@plattsburgh.edu