Understanding F-1 & J-1 Visa Status

F-1 

Who are the “major players” involved with F-1 student status?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

DHS writes regulations and develops policies to implement the parameters, procedures, conditions, benefits, duties and restrictions of the F-1 category.  Students in F-1 status primarily interact with three Bureaus within DHS:

  • USCIS: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for most application and petition adjudications. The nearest USCIS office is in Milwaukee. For more information, check out: http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis
  • ICE: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for SEVIS, immigration investigations, detention, removal, and intelligence.
  • CBP: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for immigration inspections at U.S. ports of entry, for the Border Patrol, and for the Customs Service.

DHS Approved U.S. School – Edgewood College

  • Each U.S. School designates at least one Designated School Official (DSO). At Edgewood College Sara Friar is the Principal Designated School Official (PDSO).
  • As the PDSO, Sara issues and signs Forms I-20, updates SEVIS, and assists in other immigration matters dealing with F-1 students. She also approves or recommends benefits for F-1 students and their families, and educates students and the school about their rights and obligations under F regulations.

The Student – YOU!

  • Arguably, you play the most important role in the F-1 student visa process. It is your responsibility to understand and follow the benefits, conditions, duties and restrictions of the F-1 visa category.

F-1 Status Maintenance At-A-Glance

To maintain your F-1 student status:

  • Report to CGE to have your SEVIS record registered in a timely fashion.
  • Pursue a full course of study at the school listed on your valid I-20 during every academic session except during official school breaks. The only exception to this regulation is an authorized reduced course load.
  • Notify CGE within 10 days of a change in your address.
  • Fill out the Personal Information Updates (Addresses & Phone Numbers) form online.
  • After the CGE updates your SEVIS record, we will route the form to the Registrar’s office on your behalf.
  • Make normal progress towards completing your academic program BEFORE the program completion date on your I-20. Apply for an extension BEFORE the program end date if you will not complete your academic program by that date. 
  • Notify CGE if you change your major.
  • Follow employment regulations – you can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year (40 hours/week during breaks).
  • Follow the grace period rules; you can remain in the U.S. for up to 60 days after completion of program or Optional Practical Training. Obey all federal, state, and local laws. Carry a valid passport (one that will not expire in the next 6 months).

J-1

Who are the “major players” involved with J-1 student status?

The Department of State (DOS), Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs

  • DOS issues J visas to exchange visitors and their dependents, and creates and administers federal regulations and policies governing the Exchange Visitor Program.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

  • ICE: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) manages SEVIS, immigration investigations, detention, removal, and intelligence.
  • CBP: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for immigration inspections at U.S. ports of entry, for the Border Patrol, and for the Customs Service.
  • Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor – Edgewood College
  • Each Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor appoints at least one Responsible Officer (RO) to perform the duties set forth in regulations and to represent the exchange visitor program sponsor. At Edgewood College Sara Friar is the RO.

The Exchange Visitor – YOU!

  • Arguably, you play the most important role in the J-1Exchange Visitor Program. It is your responsibility to understand and follow the benefits, conditions, duties and restrictions of the J-1 visa category.

J-1 Status Maintenance At-A-Glance

  • Report to CGE to have your SEVIS record validated within 30 days of the start of your program.
  • Carry a valid DS-2019 and I-94 marked D/S, which stands for “duration of status.” Carry a valid passport (one that will not expire in the next 6 months).
  • Engage in appropriate activities according to your exchange visitor category. For example, a student is expected to be a full-time student.
  • Seek authorization from CGE before starting employment.
  • Enroll in the required health insurance throughout your entire program.
  • Notify CGE within 10 days of a change in your address.
  • Fill out the International Student  Change of Address/ Name Form and submit it to the CGE.
  • After the CGE updates your SEVIS record, we will route the form to the Registrar’s office on your behalf.
  • Failure to maintain the terms and conditions of your non-immigrant status is a ground for removal from the United States (deportation) under INA § 237(a)(1)(C)(i).