During the academic year (Fall and Spring semesters), international students in J-1 non-immigrant status must either be enrolled full-time or receive permission from the CIE for a reduced course load
The deadline for meeting the full-time registration requirement is the end of the add/drop period as published in Important Dates.
If you are not registered full-time by the deadline, your SEVIS record will be terminated and you will lose your J-1 status. There is no grace period to remain in the U.S. following status termination.
For most students, the academic year is Fall and Spring Semesters, while Summer is considered the vacation term. During the academic year, in general, the minimum full-time enrollment for international students is as follows:
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements
Undergraduate Students
12 units per semester
Graduate Students
8 units per semester
Note:You must be registered full-time during your first term of admission. If admitted to begin during Summer, you must be full-time during that first Summer term.
Credit/No Credit classes count towards full time enrollment.