As an F-1 student there are several guidelines you must follow to remain “in-status” (meet all of your visa requirements). These guidelines will be covered at International Student Orientation.
Important Things to Know about your F-1 Visa
- You must remain a full-time student
- At Georgetown this means you must take at least 12 credit hours (we strongly recommend you take at least 15 – this way if you need to drop a class you are still full-time)
- You are typically only allowed to work on campus (certain exceptions do apply – please see the Office of International Programs)
- When traveling (even within the United States) you should always check-in with the Office of International Programs
- Be sure to keep your documents up-to-date (especially be sure that your passport is not expired)
- Your I-20 is not valid unless signed and these signatures do expire. ALWAYS be sure to check the signatures on your I-20 before leaving the United States (failure to do so may result in issues when re-entering the U.S.)
- Be mindful of your program start and end dates
Important Links
- US Department of State (F-1 Visa Overview)
- Homeland Security: Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (Maintaining Your Status)
- Study in the States (General Info)
- US Citizenship and Immigration Services
Campus DSO’s
Designated School Officials (DSO’s) sign your I-20 for travel and have access to your SEVIS record.
Dr. Laura Hunt - Primary Designated School Official (PDSO)
Office Location: Giddings Hall, Second Floor
Email Laura – 502-863-8390 (office)
Laura is your primary contact for ALL immigration purposes.
Beth Purdy - Designated School Official (DSO)
Office Location: Student Center, First Floor
Email Beth – 502-863-8169 (office)
Beth can sign your I-20 for travel if Jason is not available.
Michelle Lynch - Back Up Designated School Official (DSO)
Office Location: Patterson House, Second Floor
Email Michelle – 502-863-7061 (office)
Michelle can sign your I-20 for travel if the situation is urgent and Beth and Laura are not available.