Reduced Course Load in your First Semester

The U.S. regulations allow students in their first semester to be approved for a reduced course load in the following documented circumstances:

-initial difficulty with the English language or reading requirements,

-unfamiliarity with US teaching methods,

-improper course level placement

RCLs for these circumstances may only be authorized once. If an RCL is approved, undergraduate students must enroll in at least 9 credit hours, and graduate students in at least 3. Make an appointment with the immigration advisor in the OISVS to discuss your circumstances and initiate the request prior to dropping below full-time enrollment.

Reduced Course Load in Your Final Semester

If you have less than a full load of courses remaining to finish your degree or program, you can request approval to register for a reduced course load for your final semester. 

If you have only 1 course left, it must be face-to-face to remain in the U.S. and be eligible for OPT (for F students) or academic training (for J students). This includes a final summer term. 

Please note that your completion date is the date in which you complete all the courses for your degree rather than the graduation ceremony. 

Prepare your most recent I-94, your passport ID page, and  then click here to start your request.