An F-1 student is a nonimmigrant who is pursuing a “full course of study” to achieve a specific educational or professional objective, at an academic institution in the United States that has been designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to offer courses of study to such students, and has been enrolled in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). Once the educational or professional objectives have been attained, the F-1 student is expected by the U.S. government to return to his or her residence abroad.

Maintenance of Status
Institution Record Keeping Requirements
Extension of Program
Transfer to a New Educational Program (ESL-AS/BS)
Deviation from a Full-Course-of-Study Requirement
How to Replace a Lost I-20 or Form I-94
Visa & Work Authorization
On-Campus Work Permit
CPT
OPT
Off-Campus Work Permit (Economic Necessity)
Reinstatement to Student Status
Transfer of School
Re-entry into the U.S. after a Temporary Absence
International Student Marrying a U.S. Citizen
Change of F-1 or F-2 Visa Status
Change from F-1 to F-2
F-2 Dependent Status