F-1 Student Visa
Your visa status in the U.S. is ultimately a matter between yourself and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The DHS expects you to learn and understand the requirements and benefits of your F-1 visa status, meet those requirements, and maintain status at all times while in the U.S. You also have the responsibility to inform the International Center at Cal Poly of any changes that might affect your ability or interest to maintain F-1 visa status. Please familiarize yourself with this information:
There are specific reporting requirements for F-1 international students. The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a mechanism to electronically transmit the required information to the DHS throughout a student’s stay in the United States. Schools are required to regularly update SEVIS regarding quarterly enrollment, change of address, change of major or degree objective, school transfers, etc. Maintaining visa status and full-time enrollment is critical and reinstating F-1 status may be difficult and not always possible depending on the violation of status.
International Student Advisors are available at the Cal Poly International Center office to help you understand your immigration responsibilities and apply for F-1 status benefits. You are encouraged to meet with an Advisor as often as needed in order to make informed decisions before you take any action that could result in the loss of your visa status.
Email international@calpoly.edu to schedule an appointment to meet with an International Student Advisor.
Please also read New International Students page for updated information. Also read online information on Applying for a Visa.
There are specific reporting requirements for F-1 international students. The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a mechanism to electronically transmit the required information to the DHS throughout a student’s stay in the United States. Schools are required to regularly update SEVIS regarding quarterly enrollment, change of address, change of major or degree objective, school transfers, etc. Maintaining visa status and full-time enrollment is critical and reinstating F-1 status may be difficult and not always possible depending on the violation of status.
International Student Advisors are available at the Cal Poly International Center office to help you understand your immigration responsibilities and apply for F-1 status benefits. You are encouraged to meet with an Advisor as often as needed in order to make informed decisions before you take any action that could result in the loss of your visa status.
Email international@calpoly.edu to schedule an appointment to meet with an International Student Advisor.
Please also read New International Students page for updated information. Also read online information on Applying for a Visa.