Maintaining F-1 Student Status

International students in the United States should prioritize maintaining their F-1 status. Any violation of the F-1 regulations could result in the termination of your F-1 SEVIS record. Apart from losing F-1-related benefits, such termination can lead to severe immigration consequences. Make sure you understand the F-1 visa requirements, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to ISSS for assistance.

Report your initial arrival at CU Boulder

  • Submit the Immigration Check-In, Immigration Essentials Quiz Grade Submission, and Title IX Certificate Submission e-forms.

Maintain full-time enrollment every fall and spring semester
  • Full-time enrollment is only required in the summer if it is your first or final semester
  • Exceptions to the full-time enrollment requirement: Academic, Medical, Final Term of Study
  • Report your final semester to ISSS: all students enrolling in their final semester must submit the Confirmation of Final Semester e-Form, available in MyISSS portal
Report new addresses within 10 days of every move so your SEVIS record can be updated
  • Active Â鶹ÒùÔº: Update your address in
  • Â鶹ÒùÔº on OPT: Update address in and
Do not work without authorization or beyond allowable employment limits
Keep your I-20 up-to-date
  • Report all changes of biographical, degree program, and financial support information to ISSS
  • Follow proper procedures for extending your I-20, changing educational levels or programs, and transferring schools
Make normal progress towards completing the course of study documented on your I-20
Maintain required immigration documents including a valid passport and I-94 throughout your stay in the U.S.
Travel with required documents for re-entry to the U.S. in student status
Abide by F-1 grace period rules
  • F-1 students have a 60-day grace period at the end of their F-1 program.
    • During the grace period, you cannot take part in any studies or employment opportunities and also cannot exit and re-enter the U.S. as an F-1 student.  
  • If you do not complete your program, no grace period exists and you will need to depart the U.S. immediately.
Comply with U.S. tax filing requirements