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International Student Services

F-1 Academic Topics

We want you to succeed at the UW. Always consult both your departmental advisers and ISS to ensure that your academic plans and immigration status do not conflict.

Academic Dismissal

Students who are dismissed from the university may no longer be eligible for a UW I-20.

Academic Dismissal

Academic RCL

You may request reduced course load authorization due to limited academic challenges.

Academic RCL

Change of Degree Level

If you are moving to a higher degree level, you will need to request an updated I-20

Change of Level

Concurrent Enrollment

Enroll at UW and another school and combine the credits to count as full-time.

Concurrent Enrollment

Enrollment Requirements

F-1 students are required to follow certain enrollment requirements.

Enrollment Requirements

Exiting Ph.D. Program

Exiting a Ph.D. program and graduating with a Master’s can have important immigration consequences.

Exiting Ph.D.

Extending Studies

If you need additional time to complete your studies, you must request an extension to your I-20.

Extending Studies

Final Quarter RCL

If you are graduating, you can request authorization to enroll in only your remaining credit.

Final Quarter

Major
Updates

Updating your major? ISS will automatically issue you a new I-20 once official with the university.

Major Updates

Medical RCL

You may request reduced course load authorization due to a documented medical reason.

Medical RCL

Graduation

It’s important to plan ahead for your final quarter and graduation.

Graduation

Studying Abroad

International students can study abroad, but there are some key considerations to think about.

Studying Abroad

Transferring Schools

Leaving the UW for another school? You may need to transfer your immigration record.

Transferring