All students must be enrolled full-time each semester. However, there may be an instance where a reduced course load (RCL) is necessary. Contact the Office of International Affairs before making any program changes to ensure that the reason for your reduced course load falls under a reason permitted under F-1 regulations. An RCL is only allowed under specific academic or medical circumstances outlined below. 

Submit your request for an RCL through the International Services Portal.

Note: If an RCL creates a situation where a program extension is needed, a Request for Program Extension must also be filled out and approved at the same time.

Academic Reasons

Duration: One term maximum

Enrollment requirement: During the authorization period for RCL based on academic difficulties, undergraduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits and graduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 3 credits. Only 3 online credits may count toward the minimum requirements. The student is expected to resume a full course of study for the next available academic term. 

Reasons permitted (only one must be selected): 

• Difficulty with the English language (1st term only). 
• Difficulty with reading requirements (1st term only).
• Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods (1st term only).
• Improper course level placement.
• Student is in the final term of a degree program and will enroll in the credit hours needed to complete the program of study.

Medical Condition

Duration: Up to 12 months

Enrollment requirement: There is no minimum enrollment requirement for students who are authorized for RCL based on medical conditions.

Documentation from a licensed medical doctor/doctor of osteopathy/clinical psychologist must be provided to substantiate the authorization for RCL based on medical condition.