International Students Requirements and Responsibilities
Immigration Check-in and International Orientation
International students (new and transfer) will attend Immigration Check-in and International Orientation upon arrival at The University. These sessions take place during the week prior to the first day of classes each fall and spring semester.
Students arriving during May Term or Summer Session will contact the Office of International Programs for Immigration Check-in and Orientation procedures.
Full-Time Course Load Requirements
During the fall or spring semester International undergraduate students will take at least 12 academic credit hours to maintain F-1 visa status. International graduate students will take at least 8 academic credit hours per semester to maintain F-1 visa status.
During the summer 12-week session, international undergraduates will take 12 academic credits. During the summer 1 and 2 sessions, undergraduate students will take 6 academic credits per each term. International graduate students will take 8 academic credits during the summer 12-week session. During the summer 1 and 2 sessions, graduates students will take 4 academic hours per each term.
International students who drop below the specified full-time course load requirements without prior authorization will not maintain legal F-1 visa status.
Degree Program Completion
International students who will not complete their degree program by the end date listed on their Form I-20 should contact the Office of International Programs to request an I-20 extension before the I-20 program end date. Failure to extend the I-20 will terminate the F-1 visa status.
Dual Enrollment
International students who wish to take a course at another institution while still attending The University of Tampa should contact the International Programs Office and the Academic Advising Office for approval. Graduate students should contact the Office of International Programs and their faculty advisor.
Dismissal from the University
Academic dismissal from The University of Tampa will affect a student’s F-1 visa status. Upon dismissal, international students will contact the Office of International Programs immediately for guidance.
Withdrawal from the University
International students who have requested a withdrawal from the University will notify the Office of International Programs to ensure immigration compliance.