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F1 Visa Information

F1 Visa Information


F1 Students:

Do you need a travel signature or a new I-20? Email your DSO to request either, and expect a maximum of five business days to get your new I-20.

  • Undergraduate International students must take at least 3 units per term, 2.25 units of which must be in-person classes.

  • In order to leave the U.S. and return to Roanoke College, students must have a DSO official sign the back of their I-20 forms for re-entry and an unexpired F-1 visa. Travel signatures are valid for one year.

  • International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week at Roanoke College. Students will apply for a social security card with the assistance of the International Student Services Office. Weekly work hours depend on the availability of jobs on campus.

  • F-1 international students are eligible for off-campus work prior to graduation if it is an internship in their field of study AND they are receiving academic credit for the internship. This is called Curricular Practical Training (CPT).  For more information click here.

  • F-1 international students may be eligible for work permission after graduation as long as it is a job in their field of study. This is called Optional Practical Training (OPT). 

  • For more information about rules and regulations pertaining F1 Visa status, contact your DSO in the International Student Services Office. 

Students, familiarize yourself with your visa requirements and be sure you are "maintaining status" by reading through the pages on these government websites that pertain to your visa type. It is also necessary that you read and understand your I-20 document. 

Study in the States

Immigration and Customs Enforcement