ISS Resource Center

The ISS Resource Center is a useful guide to help you as an international student studying in the United States and at Westchester Community College.

Full-Time Enrollment

• You must be enrolled in at least 12 credits during the fall and spring semesters.
• Summer enrollment is optional unless it is your first or final term.
• Only one online course (up to 3 credits) per semester may count toward your full-time requirement.

Course Withdrawals & Academic Changes

• You may withdraw from a course only during the official withdrawal period.
• You must still maintain at least 12 credits after withdrawing.
• All withdrawals must be approved through the proper process, including coordination with the Registrar and International Student Services.
• Dropping below full-time without prior authorization may result in loss of status.

Academic Progress

• You are required to maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.
• Academic probation is a warning that your academic standing is at risk.
• Academic dismissal may lead to termination of your F-1 status.
• If you experience academic difficulty, contact an advisor immediately—we are here to help you succeed.

Employment Regulations

• On-campus employment is allowed (up to 20 hours/week during semesters).
• Off-campus employment is strictly prohibited without authorization.
• Authorized employment options include:

• • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Severe economic hardship authorization

• Unauthorized employment is a serious violation and may result in termination of your SEVIS record.

I-20 & Program Completion

• Always ensure your Form I-20 is valid and up to date.
• If you need more time to complete your program, you must request an I-20 extension before it expires.
• Keep all previous I-20s for your records.

Address & Contact Information

• You must report any change of U.S. address within 10 days.
• Keeping your contact information current is required by federal regulations.

Travel & Re-Entry

Always check with International Student Services before making travel plans

Before traveling outside the U.S., make sure:

• Submit a request for a travel signature with the Office of International Student Services
• Your passport is valid (at least 6 months into the future)
• Your F-1 visa is valid (unless eligible for automatic revalidation)
• Your I-20 has a valid travel signature (within the past 12 months, or 6 months for OPT students)

Transfers & School Changes

If you plan to transfer to another school:

• You must complete the transfer process within 30 days of your program start date at the new institution.
• Submit all required documents promptly, including transfer forms.
• Failure to complete your transfer on time may result in loss of status.

Reduced Course Load (RCL)In limited situations, you may be eligible to take fewer than 12 credits, such as:

• Initial academic difficulty
• Medical conditions (with documentation)
• Final semester (if fewer credits are needed to graduate)

You must receive approval BEFORE dropping below full-time.