









As an international student, it is your responsibility to follow both institutional and federal regulations to avoid losing your F-1 student status and visa. Always contact the Office of International Admissions with any questions or concerns you might have about the following regulations:
Be a full-time student
- International students must maintain a full course of study (12 credit hours per fall and spring semesters)
- Follow university guidelines for chapel and class attendance.
- You are not required to enroll in classes during any summer session, but you do have the option to.
- When a student does not remain in status the I-20, visa, and I-94 are no longer valid.
Carry Health Insurance
- Health insurance is mandatory for international students in the U.S. Click here for information about Carson-Newman’s Health Insurance.
- All international students will be charged each semester for student health insurance. It will automatically be included in your bill at the beginning of the semester.
Know About Employment
- An F-1 student is legally eligible for on-campus employment with verification from their DSO (Designated School Official) in the Office of International Admissions.
- Students may not work more than 20 hours per week during the semester, but may work up to 40 hours per week during school breaks and summers.
- ELI students are not eligible for employment while at Carson-Newman.
- Off-campus employment may only be granted by U.S. Immigration under extreme financial circumstances and through the appropriate application process. Contact your DSO for information.
Keep Your Information and Documents Current
- Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months into the future.
- Carry your passport, I-94, and I-20 with you at all times!
- Apply for I-20 extensions at least 60 days prior to your I-20 completion date. Contact your Advisor and DSO for approval.
- Report any change of address to your DSO within 10 days of moving.
Prepare For Traveling and Transitions
- See your DSO at least one week before leaving the U.S. to obtain the appropriate signature on your I-20 and complete your travel clearance form to return.
- Once you leave the U.S. after your listed degree is completed, you may not reenter, even if your I-20 has not expired.
- When your degree is complete, you have a 60 day grace period to either: apply for a new degree program and I-20, leave the U.S., or begin Optional Practical Training.
- Always save your outdated travel documents for future reference.
This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students.