A full course of study is defined as:
- Undergraduate students: At least 12 credit hours
- Graduate students : At least 5 graduate credit hours or a combination of 8 credit hours of graduate and undergraduate-level courses
- This may change depending on your graduate student registration status and level of course enrollment. Graduate School rules for full-time status apply.
- Ask your academic department to determine your status and how to define full-time enrollment based on that status.
Online/ Distance Education Restriction and On-Campus Physical Presence Requirement
Due to the pandemic, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has temporarily modified the online/distance education restriction and on-campus physical presence requirement. Please review our Fall 2021 FAQs for additional information. If you have questions, please contact ISSS or attend an advising session.
Incomplete (I) Grades
Getting a grade of I counts toward the full-time minimum requirements for enrollment purposes (not for work authorization purposes) as long as the course is an on-campus course, thesis hour, independent study, or dissertation hour. Students who are considering taking an incomplete in a course through Continuing Education should speak with an ISSS advisor BEFORE taking an incomplete.
Exceptions to the Full-Time Enrollment Requirement
- Less than a Full-Time Course Load Remaining: If it is your final semester and less than a full-time course load is required to complete your degree, you must submit a Confirmation of Final Semester form to ISSS.
- Authorized Reduced Course Load: If you have a qualifying Academic or Medical reason, you may be eligible for an authorized reduced course load.
Please consult ISSS if you have questions regarding eligibility requirements and do not drop courses without ISSS authorization.