Frequently Asked Questions
What must I do before traveling outside of the United States?You must make sure that there is an updated signature on Page 3 of your I-20. The signature should be dated within the past six (6) months; if it is not, then you must go to the ISSO to get a new I-20. You should also print out a transcript from ISIS. Make sure to have these up-dated documents with you when you travel.
Can I register for less than full time if I am in my final semester?
To register for less than full time in your final semester, you must submit the Reduced Course Load form prior to the beginning of the semester and before you register for classes.
What is the deadline for registration?
All students should plan to register before the beginning of classes.
Graduate students should be registered by the last date of late registration. Failure to do so jeopardizes immigration status.
Undergraduate students can register without an add slip during the first week of classes and with an add slip during the second week of classes. Failure to do so jeopardizes immigration status.
Can I register for on-line courses?
USCIS regulations state that F-1/J-1 students can register for only one (1) on-line course per semester. If you register for more than one (1) online course, you will be considered out-of-status.
Can persons in B-1/B-2 or F-2 status register for classes?
Persons in B-1/B-2 or F-2 visa status are not allowed to register for classes until their status has changed to F-1 or J-1.
Is it OK if my I-20 expires?
Do not let your I-20 expire. Please check the “complete studies not later than….date”, #5 on your SEVIS I-20. You must extend your I-20 prior to this date if necessary. Please contact ISSO for more information.
Is it OK to drop below a full course load (12 credits for undergraduate students or 9 credits for graduate students)?
Dropping below full course load is only allowed if one or more of the following conditions exits:
- In your last semester, and you need less than 12 (UG) or 9 (G) credits to graduate;
- A medical problem exists (must have a letter from doctor or counseling center);
- Initial difficulties with English language;
- Initial difficulties with reading assignments;
- Unfamiliarity with American teaching methods;
- Improper course level placement.
Can I renew my Visa in the United States (U.S.)?
No. A Visa can only be renewed outside the U. S., preferably in your home country.
I entered the United States (U.S.) on the I-20 of another institution and do not wish to attend that school. Can I attend UML?
You must first apply and be accepted to UML. Once accepted, you must meet with the International Student Advisor at the school on whose I-20 you entered, and follow the procedures of that school.
I entered the U.S. on UML’s I-20 and do not wish to attend. Can I transfer to another school?
You must show proof of acceptance at the other school and report in person to the UML ISSO. Your documents will be reviewed to determine whether your SEVIS record will be transferred to the school you wish to attend.
I am currently enrolled as an F-1 student at another school in the United States. How can I transfer to UML?
Please refer to the Transfer Form on the UML website for the answer to this question.
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