Reduced Course Load

International students in F-1 status must maintain full-time enrollment during the school year. If a student on an F-1 visa can not meet this requirement, they must request a reduced course load. Federal immigration rules limit students to full-time status, though exceptions may apply in certain circumstances. These circumstances include academic difficulties, medical reasons, or completion of studies in the final semester. F-1 students wanting to request a reduced course load must complete the Reduced Course Load Application. 

Definition of Full-Time Enrollment 

An international student on an F-1 visa must maintain full-time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters. F-1 students are not required to enroll in classes during the annual summer break or scheduled college recesses. Students starting in March or summer must enroll full-time during the summer term as their first attendance period. 

Consequences of dropping below a full course load?

An F-1 student must maintain a full course of study unless they have prior approval from the DSO. Dropping below full-time without authorization is considered out of status under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(iii). Falling out of F-1 status seriously violates student responsibilities and can negatively impact long-term immigration benefits in the U.S. A student who is out of status is no longer eligible for benefits such as practical training, on-campus employment, and travel signatures to re-enter the U.S. If a student fails to rectify their status, they are at risk of being deported and/or being unable to secure visas to enter the U.S. in the future.

How to Apply for a Reduced Course Load

F-1 students who anticipate needing to reduce their course load should reach out immediately for an appointment with their DSO. Reduced course load requests must be received at least two weeks before an F-1 student anticipates reducing their course load. A DSO must receive documentation and process the RCL prior to falling below full-time status.  

1. Contact the DSO to alert them of the need for an RCL. Send an email to international@elgin.edu. 
2. Determine the type of RCL for which you may qualify with the assistance of the DSO and gather the required documentation: 
   • Academic Difficulty: Students experiencing academic difficulty due to difficulty with the English language, U.S. teaching methods, or improper course placement. Students must enroll in a minimum of six credit hours or 12 clock hours in the Intensive English Program. Students may only be approved for one semester of an RCL per program level.   

   To apply for an RCL based on academic difficulty, submit a letter from the International Academic Advisor (associate level classes) or the Director of the Intensive English Program (language training classes) recommending a reduced course load based on: 

   • Initial difficulties with the English language (usable only in the student’s first year) 
   • Initial difficulties with reading requirements (usable only in the student’s first year) 
   • Unfamiliarity with American teaching methods 
   • Improper course level placement 

   The letter must elaborate on the specific circumstances of the academic difficulty, note the particular course(s), and state the semester the RCL is recommended.  

   • Medical Condition: Students with a temporary, serious medical condition may seek a reduced course load.   Approval for an RCL based on medical reasons cannot exceed 12 months, and students must obtain permission each semester.  

   To apply for an RCL based on medical reasons, a letter recommending an RCL from a U.S. licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or clinical psychologist is required. The letter must be typed on the medical officer’s letterhead, dated, and signed by the physician. It must clearly state the physician’s contact information (address, phone, email). It must state that full-time enrollment is not advisable due to a medical condition for a specific semester, specify a recommended number of enrollment hours, and indicate a date the student is expected to resume a full course load. The letter cannot be dated more than 30 days before the start of the semester. Note: Due to increased fraudulent documentation, medical letters that appear fraudulent are subject to verification by the medical provider.  

   • Completion of Studies in Final Semester: Students who require less than a full course load to complete degree requirements in their final semester may apply for an RCL. To apply, submit a letter from the International Academic Advisor confirming the program of study, major, that the student is expected to complete degree requirements by [date], and specify the minimum number of semester credits needed to be enrolled in the final semester. An updated educational plan must be attached.
3. Complete and sign the Reduced Course Load Application.
4. The Center for Global Engagement will determine the student’s eligibility for an RCL, and if approved, generate a new Form I-20. The student will be contacted by email when processing is complete. Please allow five business days for processing.