Contact International Student and Scholar Services
Additional information
- ISSS Front desk
8am–5pm Arizona time
- Non-medical emergency line 24/7
- Outside the US and Canada
Full-time enrollment
Maintaining J-1 status
Students are required to be enrolled full-time during required semesters in order to remain in lawful J-1 status.
- Undergraduate students must enroll in at least 12 in-person credits each fall and spring semester.
- Graduate students must enroll in at least 9 in-person credits each fall and spring semester.
Additional enrollment information
Blended and online classes Accordion Closed
- Courses described as “blended learning” are considered in-person classes.
- You may take online classes in addition to the requirements of 12 in-person credits for undergraduate students and 9 in-person units for graduate students.
- Summer is considered an “optional” semester. Continuing students can be enrolled part-time or not enrolled during the summer.
*Failure to enroll for the required number of credits will result in the loss of your J-1 immigration status and can result in serious problems with your immigration status. Immigration regulations allow a few specific exceptions to the full-time enrollment rule. Students should make an appointment with their International Student Advisor to discuss if they are eligible for reduced course load.
Reduced course loads Accordion Closed
It is possible for international students to reduce their course load for one of the following reasons:
- difficulty with the English language or reading requirements (first semester only)
- unfamiliarity with American teaching methods (first semester only)
- enrollment for number of credits necessary to graduate in final semester of degree program
- illness or medical reason (letter from a US licensed medical doctor, psychologist, or doctor of osteopathy)
If you think any of the above reasons apply to you, complete the Reduced Course Load form found at iNAU and submit it to ISSS before enrolling in less than a full course of study. This form does not guarantee approval for a reduced course load. You must wait for the approval confirmation from your ISSS advisor.
Full-time certification- graduate students only Accordion Closed
There are a few instances where a student may not be enrolled full-time during a required semester, yet the academic department considers the student to be full-time. If you believe you qualify for full-time certification, please meet with your ISSS advisor to discuss the requirements.