Canton Advisor's Resource Packet (PDF) - SUNY Canton

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISING
Office of International Programs
FOB 232A (315) 386-7608
international@canton.edu
F-1 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND REGULATIONS
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants F-1 status to individuals to study full time at a
particular school in the US. Other activities, such as employment, are privileges authorized with special
written permission for those who follow DHS rules. Penalties for failing to follow the rules will result in
loss of F-1 status and could lead to removal (deportation) from the US.
The 12 Credit Rule: Must be a FULL-TIME student every semester.
o Students must be registered for and complete 12 credits or more each semester at SUNY Canton.
Any exceptions must have written permission from the Director of International Programs
Office (IPO) before the semester begins—this is only allowed in certain documented academic
and medical circumstances.
o Cannot drop or withdraw from a course during the semester for any reason without written
approval from the IPO.
o To stay enrolled in a full-time course load, international students must go to all scheduled class
periods and keep up with assignments.
Work: Students CANNOT work anywhere off campus unless they obtain special written
permission. Some exceptions can be made, particularly for work that the student will receive credit for
and enhances the student’s education (Curricular Practical Training or CPT). Possession of a Social
Security Card/Number does NOT grant the student the right to work in the US.
Distance Education: Students should not enroll in more than one class of Distance Education in a given
semester. Such a course can count no more than 3 credits toward full time enrollment, as at least 9 of their
credits must be ‘face-to-face’. Distance Education courses are courses through the internet or television
where a teacher and students are not physically present in a classroom at the same time.
On-Campus Jobs: Can work no more than 20 hours per week while school is in session, and no more
than 40 hours a week while school is not in session.
Final Semester: Students should report to IPO before the last day of classes to report:
If they will complete studies before or after the expected completion date
If they will apply for Optional Practical Training if they wish to use it.
If they plan to transfer to another school