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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students

Immigration & International Support Services (IISS) – FAQ

1. Contact & Office Info

How do I contact IISS?

Email: internationalservices@mcphs.edu
Location: Fennell 107, near the Cardinal Booth (Boston Campus)
Website: global.mcphs.edu

What are the IISS walk-in hours?

Fennell 101 (Boston Campus):
Tuesdays: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Wednesdays: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Appointments available via Zoom or Teams through the Student Success Hub.


2. Immigration Documents & Processes

Who issues Form I-20 at MCPHS?

IISS issues Form I-20 for F-1 students at Boston, Worcester, and Manchester campuses and advises during and after the program, including OPT/STEM OPT.

What is the SEVIS Fee and when do I pay it?

Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee at fmjfee.com after receiving your I-20. Canadians/Bermudians must pay the fee but do not need an F-1 visa.

How do I apply for an F-1 visa?
  1. Complete the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov
  2. Upload your photo and print the confirmation page
  3. Schedule a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Do I need to schedule my visa appointment in my home country?

Yes. Applying outside your country of residence may complicate the process. Check wait times at travel.state.gov.


3. Travel & Entry to the U.S.

What documents do I need to enter the U.S. as an F-1 student?
  • Valid Form I-20 with DSO signature
  • Valid passport (6+ months)
  • Valid F-1 visa (unless Canadian/Bermudian)
  • SEVIS fee receipt
What documents must I keep with me while in the U.S.?
  • Form I-94, passport, and Form I-20
  • Report address changes within 10 days:
    • Use Student Success Hub (current students)
    • Use global.mcphs.edu → My Contact Information (OPT students)
What do I need to travel internationally as an F-1 student? While enrolled:
  • Travel signature on I-20 (within 12 months)
  • Passport (valid 6+ months)
  • Valid F-1 visa
  • Recommended: transcript, enrollment verification, I-94 printout
On OPT/STEM OPT:
  • I-20 with job info and signature (within 6 months)
  • EAD card, passport, visa, pay stubs
  • Avoid travel if OPT is pending


4. Enrollment & Academics

Is F-1 orientation required?

Yes, mandatory for all new and transfer F-1 students at the start of Fall and Spring semesters.

Is full-time enrollment required?

Yes. Full-time enrollment is required during required terms (Fall and Spring, and Summer for accelerated programs).


5. Employment & Work Authorization

Can I work on-campus as an F-1 student?

Yes, up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Exceeding this violates your visa status.

Can I work off-campus as an F-1 student?

No, unless authorized for CPT, OPT, or economic hardship. Unpaid roles also require authorization.

What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

CPT is off-campus work authorization related to your major. Must be pre-approved in SEVIS and appear on your I-20. Full-time CPT for 12 months cancels OPT eligibility.

What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

OPT allows work related to your degree, either pre- or post-completion. Requires DSO recommendation and USCIS EAD approval before you can start work.

What is STEM OPT?

24-month OPT extension for DHS-approved STEM degrees. Requires an E-Verify employer and completed Form I-983.

Can I work unpaid or paid off-campus without authorization?

No. Unauthorized employment (paid or unpaid) violates F-1 status and leads to termination of your I-20.

Can I volunteer off-campus?

Maybe. Check with IISS first. Unpaid work isn’t always considered volunteering under F-1 regulations.

How do I apply for CPT or OPT?

Email internationalservices@mcphs.edu or schedule an appointment via the Student Success Hub.


6. Dependents & Family

Can my family join me in the U.S.?

Yes. F-1 students may bring a spouse and children as F-2 dependents.


7. Life in the U.S.

Can I apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Yes, if you have an on-campus job, CPT, or OPT authorization. You only apply once.

Can I apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license or ID?

Yes. Visit the Massachusetts RMV for required documents.

Do I need an SSN to open a bank account?

No. An SSN is not required to open a U.S. bank account.