Register for a full course load for each semester of your program of study. The definition of full-time status depends on your college or university, but it usually ranges from 12 to 15 credit hours for undergraduates. A full load for Master's and doctoral degree students varies. You usually do not need to take classes during the summer to maintain F-1 status. Check with your university for your program's guidelines. Do not drop out of any classes that will put you below full-time status.
Work only for on-campus employment. Working off-campus will invalidate your F-1 visa and cause you to be considered "unlawfully present." The campus's international affairs office sometimes consider special circumstances for allowing off-campus employment. The F-1 visa allows you to work 20 hours per week on campus during semesters and up to 40 hours per week during the summer and winter breaks.
Renew your passport and I-20 form as needed The I-20 is a U.S. Homeland Security Department form that is a part of obtaining a student visa. You need to renew your I-20 from if completion of your program of study will last longer than anticipated. You need to keep these documents current in order to keep a "lawfully present" status and to re-enter the U.S. after traveling during the course of your study program.
Update your address with your university's international affairs or student affairs office if you move during the time you have an F-1 visa. Let them know if you decide to permanently leave the U.S. or switch to another visa status.
Apply for optional practical training, OPT, no less than 90 days before the end of your study program if you plan to take advantage of the additional work period. OPT gives you an 18-month extension to your stay in the U.S. on an F-1 visa to work off-campus at a job related to your field. You must begin OPT work no later than 60 days following the end of your program.
Change to a different immigration or visa status or leave the U.S. before the end of the 60-day grace period following the end of your program. This keeps you in good standing with U.S. Customs and Immigration and makes it easier for you to re-enter the U.S. in the future or obtain a different visa or immigration status.