Federal immigration regulations set strict limits on enrollment that is less than full-time. Only a designated school official (DSO) in International Services may grant a reduced course load. Contact us if you think you may be eligible.

A reduced course load can only be given for these reasons:

1. Initial academic difficulties with the English language, U.S. teaching methods, or improper course placement (first semester only).
2. Medical condition certified by documentation from a licensed medical doctor, a licensed doctor of osteopathy, a licensed psychologist, or a licensed clinical psychologist (maximum of 12 months per program of study).
3. Completion of the course of study (final semester): You may enroll less than full-time if fewer courses are needed to complete your course of study. You may not enroll in additional courses that are not required to satisfy the requirements for completion of your program or take additional courses for administrative purposes, personal reasons, or to delay graduation. Students considered to have completed their course of study must take action to maintain status beyond their studies.

If you are a graduate or professional student, in absentia status is a type of registration that allows you to maintain your F-1 or J-1 student status at Cornell while completing research elsewhere. In most cases, undergraduate students are not eligible to take this type of leave.

In absentia registration counts as full-time registration for immigration purposes. If you are approved for in absentia registration, you will be maintaining your F-1 or J-1 student status. You should discuss your particular situation with your graduate student services representative or professional school advising office to find out if you are eligible for in absentia and what procedures you need to follow.

Never work on campus for more than 20 hours per week while you are a registered student. Always consult with International Services about off-campus work. You must have our authorization before you begin work in an off-campus position.

Comply with Cornell’s academic and conduct polices and all U.S. federal and state laws.

Returning students and scholars must update their address within 10 days of any move (new students must complete the Required Status Activation before submitting an address update). Active F-1 students should use the F-1 Student Address Update form, and J-1 students should use the J-1 SEVIS Address Update form. This time frame is a legal requirement. You must also notify International Services within 10 days of any change to your phone number or email address. Also remember to update your address in Student Essentials.

Contact your embassy to renew your passport. Begin the process well before the expiration date. When you travel outside of the United States, make sure you have the required travel documents before leaving.

If you plan to extend your end date, start early! Talk with International Services before the end date on your I-20 or DS-2019.

Contact us before you finish at Cornell if you plan to transfer to another school or go on to another degree program at Cornell or elsewhere. You’ll need to complete the required immigration procedures before the end of your grace period.

Contact International Services immediately and speak to an immigration advisor. There are many things we can do to help you navigate a status violation once we are aware it has happened. However, there are problems we will not be able to solve if you have accrued too much unlawful presence time.

Your dependents’ F-2 or J-2 status is tied to your immigration status. If you fail to maintain your legal status, your dependents will also lose their legal status.