New Semester Reminders and Maintaining Status

As we start a new year and new semester, we want to remind you that OIE is here to help you understand the rules and regulations of your F-1 or J-1 status in the U.S. Here are some details and resources to assist you with maintaining your status:

Maintaining Legal Immigration Status

For detailed information about maintaining your legal immigration status, please review the Maintaining Status section on our website. Remember that you are responsible for maintaining your own immigration status. It's important to understand your status, know what you may or may not do while in the U.S., and know which immigration documents you have, and when and how to keep them updated.

Full-time Enrollment Requirement

F-1 and J-1 students are required to enroll full-time and attend classes in person each semester (summer as well, if required by your academic program). Visit OIE's website for more information about enrollment requirements.

Change of Address

If you move, you are required to update your "Off-Campus Residence" in Student Information Online (SIO) within 10 days of moving.

Employment Authorization Information

All F-1 students require authorization before beginning any type of off-campus employment. Work without authorization is a federal violation and will put you at risk of losing your immigration status. Learn more about employment authorization and requirements.

All J-1 students require authorization before beginning any type of employment, on-campus or off-campus. Work without authorization is a federal violation and will put you at risk of losing your immigration status. Learn more about employment authorization and requirements.

Travel Information and Resources

If you will be traveling internationally, we recommend following OIE's travel guidance to know which documents to travel with in your carry on.

As always...

Our team is here to help you throughout your educational journey at CMU, so please let us know if you have questions not covered on our website. You may contact our office by phone at 412-268-5231 or oie@andrew.cmu.edu. For complex questions or problems, schedule an appointment with an OIE advisor.