It is important that F-1 students understand their immigration responsibilities in order to maintain their status. Please read carefully. These rules are extremely important. Any violation of these regulations puts the F-1 student at risk of disciplinary action or deportation.

1. The student must keep their passport, I-20, and I-94 valid at all times. If one of these documents will expire during a student’s stay in the U.S., they must contact the International Office at least 30 days before the expiration date. 
2. The student must always be enrolled full-time for the Fall and Spring semesters. For graduate students this means 9 credit hours per semester. If a student needs to drop below full-time, they must make sure that they have received authorization from the International Office. 
3. The student must obtain a travel signature on their I-20 prior to leaving the U.S. They will need this to return to the U.S. on their F-1 visa. Travel signatures are valid for only one year. 
4. The student must not work without authorization. Students can work for Meharry on-campus a total of 20 hours per week during the Fall and Spring semesters and as many hours per week (on-campus) as they wish during official school breaks (Summer Break). For ANY work, or work-like activity, off-campus or for an on-campus employer, paid or unpaid, the student must have prior approval from the International Office. Engaging in unauthorized employment may result in the termination of the student’s SEVIS record and they will be required to leave the U.S. In addition, their future employment eligibility and academic program may also be impacted. 
5. The student must update their address within 10 days of moving. 
6. The student must notify the International Office to update their I-20 and SEVIS Record of any changes to their academic program or plans. Students must obtain permission from the International Office in advance if they 1.) need to drop below full-time enrollment, 2.) extend their I-20, or 3.) obtain work authorization. Students must notify the International Office immediately of 1.) changes of major or funding, 2.) plans to transfer to a different school, or 3.) plans to start a new degree program. The International Office must update students’ SEVIS Records (sometimes in advance) in order for these changes to be allowed. 
7. The student must not engage in illegal activity. Conviction of certain crimes can negatively impact a student’s immigration status and may subject them to deportation from the U.S. If a student is arrested or charged with a crime, they must notify the International Office immediately so that we can refer them to an immigration attorney.