Reduced Course Load (RCL)

F-1 international students are normally required to maintain full-time enrollment. If you need to enroll in fewer units due to an eligible academic difficulty, a medical condition, or because you are in your final semester, you may request authorization for a Reduced Course Load (RCL). Approval from International Student Services is required before dropping below full-time enrollment.

Submit this request and receive approval before dropping below full-time enrollment. Full-time enrollment is only required in fall and spring semesters and, if the student is starting in summer, in that first summer term. 

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to gain temporary employment authorization in a position directly related to their major field of study. To request OPT, complete all required forms and learning modules in your ISC Portal, upload proof of program completion, and schedule an OPT advising appointment with the International Student Center. During the advising appointment, an advisor will review your eligibility, discuss important deadlines and reporting requirements, and issue an updated I-20 with an OPT recommendation if appropriate. Final approval is granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and students may not begin employment until they receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and their approved OPT start date has arrived.

Other Student Requests

For information on other student requests and forms, please go to this International Help Center article.