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Maintaining F-1 Status

Your F-1 Student Status at MCPHS

Maintaining your F-1 status is your responsibility as an international student. The International and Intercultural Student Services (IISS) staff is here to support you through walk-ins and appointments.

Full-Time Enrollment Requirements

To maintain lawful F-1 status, you must engage in a full course of study during each required academic term.

For accelerated (year-round) programs, summer is a required term. Students enrolled in an accelerated program MUST enroll in a full course study every fall, spring and summer terms.

MCPHS Full-Time Enrollment Standards:

Undergraduate Students

  • Minimum: 12 credits per semester

    • At least 9 credits must be in-person

Graduate Students

  • Minimum: 9 credits per semester

    • At least 6 credits must be in-person

Exceptions: If you are in your final semester, on an approved medical reduced course load, or a graduate student enrolled in a thesis course, you may qualify for an exception. Please schedule an appointment with the IISS office to confirm your eligibility.

Employment Guidelines

On-Campus Employment

  • Allowed up to 20 hours per week during the academic year for students in Active SEVIS status

  • May begin employment up to 30 days before classes start

  • Includes jobs on-campus or educationally affiliated off-campus sites (e.g., bookstore, cafeteria)
     

Steps to Begin On-Campus Work:

  1. Visit IISS and speak to an International Advisor (DSO).

  2. If eligible, your DSO will issue an F-1 Employment Certification Letter.

  3. Have your on-campus supervisor complete and return the form to IISS.

  4. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) (required for all student workers).

Off-Campus Employment

🚫 Do NOT work off-campus without authorization.
Unauthorized off-campus work will negatively impact your F-1 immigration status.

✅ Always consult with IISS before starting any off-campus activity, including internships, volunteering, CPT, or OPT.

If you have questions or need help, please contact the IISS office. We’re here to help you stay in status and succeed at MCPHS!