Current International Students

Maintaining F-1 student status is an important responsibility, which can impact your future opportunities here in the United States. Here are a few basic ways to maintain compliance: 

• Maintain full-time enrollment each semester

• Keep your documents safe and up to date

• Do not engage in unauthorized employment

• Know the rules

• When in doubt, ask a DSO!

To better understand the rules and regulations, we have compiled some helpful resources regarding your F-1 status: 

1. Study in the States: This U.S. government website simplifies the rules and regulations related to F-1 international students
2. EducationUSA: Tips and guidance about studying in the U.S.
3. SEVP: The official student site for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.

There are several documents most F-1 students need to keep track of: 

1. Passport: Your passport should always have at least six months of validity remaining while in the U.S. If you renew or replace your passport, please provide a copy to the Office of International Affairs.
2. Form I-20: This document is created in SEVIS and reflects the data in your SEVIS record. If any changes to the information on your I-20 occur, inform your DSO as soon as possible. Keep physical or digital copies of all I-20s issued to you throughout your education and be mindful of your program end date. This is the date you should complete all degree requirements by.
3. F-1 Visa: Your visa is essential for entry into the United States. It may expire while you are in the U.S. and that is okay, as long as you remain in F-1 status. If your visa expires and you travel abroad, you will need to renew it before reentering.
4. I-94 Record: This is a record of your most recent arrival/departure at a U.S. border or port of entry. You should always verify your I-94 is accurate after travel. Class of admission should be “F-1” and the Admit Until Date should be “D/S”. If you suspect an error, please meet with a DSO. You can check your I-94 record at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/

F-1 students should always discuss potential employment opportunities with a DSO before engaging in any work.

On-Campus Jobs – F-1 international students are eligible to work on campus without additional authorization.

CPT – Curricular Practical Training provides F-1 students the opportunity to engage in an internship or training experience that is an integral part of their academic program. Meet with a DSO before pursuing CPT.

OPT – Upon graduating, F-1 international students in good standing may pursue Post-Completion Optional Practical Training. This allows students to gain full-time work experience in the United States. Tiffin University students are required to attend an OPT Tutorial prior to beginning the OPT application process.

Important Links:

• • Learn more about CPT, OPT, and more from Study in the States
  • Apply for CPT authorization: https://form.jotform.com/TUinternational/CPT
  • TU I-20 Request Form (OPT Request): https://form.jotform.com/TUinternational/i20-request

If you intend to travel abroad during your time at Tiffin, it is important you inform the Office of International affairs.

Travel Signature: F-1 students are required to have a valid “travel signature” on page two of their I-20 while abroad. The signature is valid for one year (six months while on OPT) and must be valid at the time of reentry.

Visa Renewal: If your visa will expire before you return to the United States, you must arrange to apply for a renewal while abroad.