Online Courses
During your academic studies, you may find options for taking an online course. An online course as defined by the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service (USCIS) is any course that does not require your presence in a traditional classroom setting.
Students should be aware that the USCIS has set limits on the number of online courses a student may take each semester to maintain their visa status. Below are guidelines for complying with the requirements:
Undergraduate Students
Full time = 12 credit hours (fall and spring semesters)
Only 3 online credit hours
Graduate Students
Full time = 9 credit hours (fall and spring semesters)
Only 3 online credit hours
When a student takes more than the required full time course load, he/she may opt to take more than one online course.However, if the student must drop a course for any reason, they may encounter an immigration violation if they drop a course that is being counted towards the full time load requirement.
Students should consult with an immigration adviser in the International Student Office if they have questions concerning online courses and F-1 or J-1 student status.