Following these guidelines will help you maintain your status  as F-1 Student in the United States.  

• Maintain a valid passport at all times.
• Attend the university that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration has authorized by stamping your I-20 when you entered the U.S., or by being notified of your transfer to another school.
• Register and complete a full course of study (12 hours for undergraduates or 9 hours for graduates) each regular semester (Fall and Spring).
• Apply with your Designated School Official (DSO) promptly for an extension of stay if you are unable to complete your program of study by the completion date on your I-20.
• Apply with your Designated School Official (DSO) for proper documentation to notify USCIS of a change of education level and/or a change in major.
• Do not change schools without first contacting your Designated School Official (DSO) for proper documentation.
• Do not engage in any employment without proper authorization.
• Limit on-campus employment to 20 hours per week while school is in session.
• Report a change of address to the ADSO or Designated School Official (DSO) and the Registrar’s Office within 10 days of the change.
• Carry approved health insurance coverage.
• Obey all state and federal laws.
• File the proper tax forms by April 15th of each year.  All F-1 students must complete IRS form 8843 regardless of income.
• Request travel documents from an ADSO or DSO before leaving the U.S. (You must allow at least 2 business days for processing)

It is the responsibility of the F-1 International Student to remain informed of changing immigration regulations and maintaining his/her status.