F-1/J-1 Status Rules

Applying to Hostos > Office of Admissions > International Students <--

12 Musts For International Students

1. Your SEVIS I-20 must be valid at all times. It is your responsibility to check the program’s end date (see item #5 on your SEVIS Form I-20) and if necessary have your SEVIS I-20 extended 30 days BEFORE it expires.

2. You will receive a continued attendance SEVIS I-20 after registration of classes. You must use this recent SEVIS I-20 for travel.

3. Your passport must be kept valid at all times.

4. You must inform the DSO and The Registrar’s Office of a change of address within 10 days of moving.

5. You must register full-time every semester. Full-time status is 12 credits.

6. In addition to registering full-time, you must successfully COMPLETE 12 hours each term. You cannot withdraw from a class if it will make you part-time, without authorization from DSO.

7. You must be in good academic standing.

8.  YOU MUST PAY YOUR TUITION BILL on time or you would fall out of status.

9. If you travel during a school break, you must come to the DSO at least TWO WEEKS prior to your trip to have your SEVIS I-20 signed. You must bring your SEVIS I-20 and your passport to DSO. New students MUST enter the United States by the date on your SEVIS I-20 (see item #5 on SEVIS I-20). Continuing students must return to Hostos Community College by the beginning of the next term or by the first day school reopens, after your summer/winter break. You MAY NOT BE ABLE to return to the United States after that time. It is recommended that you get your SEVIS I-20 signed at least once a term.

10. If you are working on-campus or at another CUNY college, you must be RE-CERTIFIED to work each semester. You must bring a letter of employment to DSO for approval, before you can begin work.

11. You are not permitted to work off campus, unless you are on your Optional Practical Training (OPT).

12. If you are graduating this semester, you can apply as early as 3 months (90 days) prior to graduation for your OPT. NOTE: STUDENTS MUST UNDERSTAND THAT THEY ARE NO LONGER ELIGIBLE TO APPLY AFTER THEIR LAST DAY OF CLASS.

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