F-1 student can be exempted from full-time enrollment if he or she fits either of the following conditions and obtains prior written authorization from ISPS. [Last Semester]
Student needs units less than full-time enrollment to complete his or her degree in the final semester. Exemption must be authorized before the first day of classes. Once authorized, a student must register for a minimum of 1 unit. If a student takes exemption in the final semester but failed to complete his or her degree, the student will (may) then be considered out of status. [Medical Conditions]
Student cannot attend classes due to severe illness or injury. Exemption can be granted for no more than 12 months in the aggregate per degree level. Exemption must be re-authorized each semester. [Academic Difficulty]
Student is facing severe difficulty in understanding class lectures due to lack of proper English and/or reading skills, unfamiliarity with American teaching methods, or improper course level. Once authorized, a student must register for a minimum of 6 units. Exemption can be granted for no more than once per degree level, and typically only during the first semester of enrollment.
Important:
Form I-20 will automatically be terminated if a student drops his or her classes to below full-time enrollment without prior written authorization from ISPS. If Form I-20 is terminated, a student must file for reinstatement or leave the country immediately.
Required Documents (all must be valid and original copy) at ISPS:
- Full-Time Enrollment Exemption Form
- Form I-20
- Recommendation Letter from academic advisor explaining why exemption is needed (if for academic difficulty)
- Recommendation Letter from a licensed medical doctor, licensed doctor of osteopathy, or licensed clinical psychologist (if for medical conditions)
What You Need To Do:- Step 1: Submit all required documents to the ISPS front desk
- Step 2: Wait for email from ISPS (if you don’t hear from ISPS after 10 business days of submission, call at 621-4627 to check your application status)
Note 1: Normal processing time at ISPS is 10 business days after receipt of complete documents Note 2: Student with other extenuating circumstances should consult with an ISPS advisor before making any enrollment changes or enrolling for subsequent term for less than full time
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