F-1 and J-1 student status is based on full-time enrollment each Fall and Spring semester. You must work with an International Student Services (ISS) Advisor if you need to take a semester off studying. You must also talk to an ISS Advisor if you need to be less than full time.
The immigration processes depend on whether you are leaving during the semester or after the semester ends. In all cases the process and paperwork related to your immigration status is in addition to – and separate from – any paperwork that you may need to provide the university or your academic department.
You must formally notify an ISS advisor before dropping classes. If you will not be enrolling in a semester then you must formally notify an ISS advisor before 10th day. If you do not provide a timely formal notification to ISS, your F-1 record may be terminated for “Failure to Enroll” or “Unauthorized Withdrawal.” This has no grace period to remain in the U.S. It can also have a negative impact if you wish to visit, study, or work in the U.S. in the future.
Please consult an ISS advisor if your leave of absence is due to suspension from Boise State University. You should also consult ISS if your F-1 record has been terminated for another reason.
You should also consult the Registrar’s website about the process of dropping courses and taking time off.
Withdrawal During the Semester
Consult with an International Student Advisor at the CGE and complete the Leave of Absence form before dropping classes or filing your request to withdraw.
The timing of your notification to CGE can have a big impact on your immigration status. If filed properly, you may be eligible to remain in the U.S. for up to 15 days after you drop your courses.
Please note that it is important to continue attending classes if possible until you formally drop them from your schedule.
Withdrawal before 10th day
Complete the Leave of Absence form before the semester begins. Your F-1 record will then be closed for an “Authorized Early Withdrawal”. This allows you 15 additional days to remain in the U.S. Please consult with an ISS advisor if you are requesting a leave of absence due to medical reasons, as you may be able to remain in the U.S. for treatment.
In most cases you cannot remain in the U.S. during a leave of absence and you can’t work. Taking time off can also affect your eligibility to apply for CPT and OPT work authorization.
Complete Withdrawal (CW)
A Complete Withdrawal (CW) is when you want to drop all your courses in a semester. If you are requesting a CW for a semester that has already finished then you must meet with an ISS advisor before filing the CW appeal with the Registrar’s Office. If you drop the courses without prior permission from an ISS Advisor then your F-1 immigration record may be terminated due to an unauthorized withdrawal, resulting in a requirement to leave the U.S. immediately.
Medical Reasons
You may be eligible to remain in the U.S. for medical treatment if your need to withdraw due to a medical condition. An ISS advisor can help you know if that is an option in your case. You may need to submit additional paperwork from a U.S. licensed Medical Doctor, Doctor of Osteopathy, or Licensed Clinical Psychologist as part of this process.
Returning to Study On Campus
Make sure you are eligible to enroll in classes. Then complete the returning student I-20 request form and upload your new financial support documents. In some cases we may request an updated degree plan.
If you are returning after academic dismissal you will work with International Admissions on the process to return to the university.
You do not need to apply for a new F-1 visa unless your current visa has expired. Contact your local U.S. Embassy if you have visa questions.
Check in at the CGE before classes begin so that we can register your arrival with U.S. Immigration. Bring copies of your I-20, passport and visa to that check in. You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the new semester begins.