Reduced Course Load

Immigration regulations require that F-1 students maintain a full course of study (12 credits each semester for most students; 9 credits each semester for Graduate Students with an Assistantship). However, the regulations do permit a "Reduced Course Load" in very limited situations.

If a student cannot enroll full-time, they must be approved by International Student Services for a Reduced Course Load before dropping below full-time. 

Learn about the types of Reduced Course Loads by choosing from the pages below.

Academic Reduced Course Load
12/31/19
An Academic Reduced Course Load permits F-1 students to reduce their course load below full-time (to a minimum of 6 credits) if they are experiencing academic difficulty.
Final Semester Reduced Course Load
12/31/19
A Final Semester Reduced Course Load permits F-1 to reduce their course load below full-time (at least one credit, but fewer than 12 credits) if it is the final semester of their degree program and they need fewer than 12 credits to graduate.
Medical Reduced Course Load
12/31/19
A Medical Reduced Course Load permits F-1 students to reduce their course load below full-time (or, if necessary, not enroll in any courses) due to a student's temporary illness or medical condition.