F-1 Degree Seeking Students
Allegheny has a robust international student population. We currently welcome F-1 degree seeking students from over 30 countries.
Entering the United States
A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.
- After you present your passport, visa, and I-20 at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make your entry decision. Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.
- Learn about procedures for entering the United States on the CBP website under Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors.
Maintaining Legal Immigration Status
It is very important for F-1 students to maintain legal status while they are in the U.S. F-1 visa holders who fall “out of status” are considered illegally residing in the U.S. and subject to penalties.
- Maintain required documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond planned departure date.
- Valid and accurate I-20
- Accurate I-94 admission record
- Report changes in information
- All changes to U.S. address, phone number, email or major must be reported to ISS within 10 calendar days of the change.
- Comply with requirements of your visa category and degree program.
- Maintain a full course of study (minimum 12 credits) unless you have prior authorization for a Reduced Course Load through ISS.
- Do NOT engage in employment within the United States without prior authorization from ISS and/or the U.S. government.
