Getting Started as a Student
Table of Contents
REGISTRATION AND ACADEMICS
How do I register for classes?
While the registration process will vary from one school to another, most schools require you to register through a combination of meeting with your academic or faculty advisor and then completing the registration process via an online system. The general steps are:
Meet with an academic or faculty advisor to review your degree requirements.
Select your courses with guidance from your academic or faculty advisor.
Use the school’s online registration system (e.g., Banner, PeopleSoft, or another portal) to officially enroll.
Ensure your enrollment is full-time, since this is required to maintain your F-1 or J-1 status.
If you have questions about the registration process, ask your academic advisor. And be sure to also coordinate with your international student advisor in the international student office so you don’t risk falling below full-time enrollment.
IMPORTANT: When registering for classes, remember that most of your classes must be in-person or hybrid classes. Only one online class per semester (up to 3 credit hours) can be used to count towards fulfilling your full-time enrollment requirement. If you plan to withdraw from or drop/add classes at any time, speak with your international advisor first.
How does the U.S. grading and GPA system work?
The grading system and GPA in the U.S. can be confusing, especially for international students.
In the U.S., your “grades” and “grade point average” (GPA) are measurements of your academic achievement. Courses are commonly graded using percentages, which are converted into letter grades.
Most U.S. schools use letter grades that are converted into a Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale:
A = 4.0 (excellent)
B = 3.0 (good)
C = 2.0 (average)
D = 1.0 (poor)
F = 0.0 (fail)
Some schools use plus/minus grades (e.g., B+ = 3.3). Your GPA is the overall average of your grades and is important for graduation, scholarships, and employment opportunities.
NOTE: Schools and individual academic programs have different GPA requirements to remain in good academic standing and avoid probation. While F is the only grade considered failing on the standard grading scale, nearly all schools require students to maintain above a 2.0 GPA (C average), and many programs (especially graduate programs) require significantly higher GPAs to continue in the program.
IMPORTANT: Be sure you understand your academic program’s GPA requirements and get help as early as possible if you are struggling to maintain your grades. Schools want all students to be successful, and they have services in place to help, but you have to be willing to ask.
What is the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition?
In the U.S., many public colleges and universities set two tuition rates: in-state (for students who are legal residents of that state) and out-of-state (for students who are not state residents). In-state tuition is usually much lower because it is subsidized by state taxes. Out-of-state tuition is higher because those students (and their families) have not contributed to the state tax system.
As an international student, you will almost always pay the out-of-state tuition rate at public universities, unless you qualify for a special waiver or scholarship. A few states and schools offer programs that allow international students to pay in-state rates under certain conditions, but this is not common. Private universities, on the other hand, generally charge one tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency or citizenship.
IMPORTANT: International students in F-1 or J-1 status should assume they will be charged out-of-state tuition at public institutions. If you hear about “in-state” tuition, remember this typically applies only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with limited exceptions. Always verify costs directly with your school before making financial plans.
What is considered full-time enrollment?
If you are in F or J visa status, you must be enrolled full-time during all normal enrollment periods (e.g., usually Fall and Spring semesters at schools operating on a semester schedule).
Full-time enrollment is considered:
Undergraduate students: At least 12 credit hours (at least 9 credits must be in-person/hybrid)
Graduate students: At least 9 credit hours (at least 6 credits must be in-person/hybrid)
The credit hours for full-time enrollment may vary for graduate students by school and/or academic program
If you drop below full-time enrollment without prior approval, you risk falling out of status. This means your SEVIS record could be terminated, and you would lose your legal right to remain in the U.S.
NOTE: Under certain limited circumstances, international students in F-1 status may be authorized to enroll in a reduced course load and still maintain their student status. If you’re facing difficulties (academic, medical, or personal), talk with the international student office at your school before reducing your course load. You may qualify for a Reduced Course Load (RCL) with proper authorization, which allows you to stay in legal status.
Can I take online classes as an international student?
Yes, you can take online classes, but only one online course (up to 3 credits) per semester can count toward your full-time enrollment requirement.
Full-time enrollment is considered:
Undergraduate students: At least 12 credit hours (at least 9 credits must be in-person/hybrid)
Graduate students: At least 9 credit hours (at least 6 credits must be in-person/hybrid)
The credit hours for full-time enrollment may vary for graduate students by school and/or academic program
NOTE: You can take more online classes, but they will not count toward the credits to meet the full-time enrollment requirement.
How do I change my major or academic program?
The U.S. higher education system allows for significant flexibility in academic programs, including the ability to change majors. As an international student in F-1 or J-1 visa status, you are allowed to change your major in the U.S., but you must follow the correct steps to keep your SEVIS record accurate and maintain lawful status. Here’s what to do:
Meet with your academic advisor to review the new major and how it affects your degree plan.
Get school approval by completing any required forms through the registrar or your academic department.
Inform your international student office right away.
A Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) in the international student office at your school or at your program sponsor must update your SEVIS record and issue you a new Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 with the new major.
Check your program end date. If the new major will take longer, you will also need to consult with the DSO or ARO about applying for a program extension before your Form I-20 expires.
Keep your updated I-20. Carry it when you travel and keep a copy for your records.
NOTE: Never change your course load or major without talking to your DSO (F-1) or ARO (J-1) first. If your SEVIS record is not updated correctly, you could fall out of status.
Reference: Reporting changes in student and school information: 8 CFR 214.3(g)(2) (Code of Federal Regulations)
Where can I find tutoring or academic support?
As an international student in the U.S., you may face unique challenges in the classroom. Common difficulties include:
Adjusting to English as the language of instruction
Understanding new teaching styles, classroom participation expectations, and grading systems
Managing a heavy reading or writing workload
Balancing cultural adjustment with academic demands
The good news is that U.S. universities offer extensive tutoring and academic support services to help you succeed, such as:
Writing and language centers for essays, presentations, and communication skills
Tutoring centers for subjects like math, science, and business
Study skills workshops on time management, exam preparation, and note-taking
Peer mentoring and study groups for extra support and connection
Faculty office hours, where professors welcome you to ask questions and review material
NOTE: Using these resources is normal and encouraged in U.S. academic culture. Asking for help shows you are committed to your success. So, take advantage of these resources early and often.
OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Do I need health insurance in the U.S.?
Yes. J-1 students are required by federal regulation to maintain health insurance for the duration of their stay here. F-1 students are strongly encouraged to hold health insurance as well. Most U.S. colleges and universities require international students to have health insurance. This may mean:
You are automatically enrolled in the school’s health insurance plan, or
You can submit proof of a comparable private plan (if your school allows it).
Be sure to check with your international office or student health center to understand your school’s specific insurance requirements and deadlines.
Even if your school does not require international students to have health insurance, you should always have an active health insurance policy while in the U.S. Healthcare in the U.S. is very expensive, and even a short hospital stay can cost thousands of dollars. Health insurance helps cover medical costs and protects you from large bills.
NOTE: Federal regulations at 22 CFR section 62.14 require all students in J-1 visa status to maintain health insurance at all times. If you are unsure whether your insurance plan meets these standards, ask your international student office or program sponsor. Not having proper coverage could put your J-1 status at risk.
How can I apply for a Social Security Number?
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a U.S. government identification number mainly used for tax and employment purposes. You can only get an SSN if you are authorized to work in the U.S.
F-1 students are eligible if you have an on-campus job offer or other authorized employment
J-1 students are eligible once your program sponsor authorizes your employment, either for on-campus work or off-campus Academic Training
NOTE: If you need an identification number for banking, taxes, or housing purposes but are not eligible for an SSN, you may be able to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Consult your international student office.
If you are eligible for an SSN (through authorized employment), you apply through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The process includes the following steps:
Confirm you are eligible
F-1 students: On-campus job offer, CPT, OPT, or Economic Hardship authorization
J-1 students: Written employment authorization from your program sponsor
Gather your documents
Passport and visa
Form I-94 (printable on this webpage)
Form I-20 (F-1) or Form DS-2019 (J-1)
Proof of employment
Letter from Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Office (ARO)
A letter signed by your supervisor which describes:
Your job
Your employment start date
The number of hours you are, or will be, working
Your supervisor's name and telephone number.
Complete the Online Social Security Number Application
When you submit the form online, the ssa.gov site allows you to request an appointment. It will also display your Online Control Number, that you should write down or print.
To schedule an appointment, you are required to create an account with Login.gov.
Once you complete the online application, you must visit the local Social Security Administration (SSA) office with your documentation within 45 calendar days.
The 45-day window to appear in person after completing the online application is a general SSA policy, but it can vary slightly by office in how strictly it’s enforced. You typically must complete the in-person visit within 45 calendar days of submitting the online application, but local SSA offices may have slight variations in how they manage the process.
Submit your application in person at the appropriate Social Security Administration (SSA) office
Some SSA offices require an appointment, while others allow walk-ins.
Check online if an appointment is required. If so, to schedule an appointment, you are required to create an account with Login.gov.
F-1 students applying for OPT can apply for their SSN via the online OPT application, which does not require going in person to the SSA office.
Wait for your card
Your SSN card will arrive by mail in about 2-4 weeks.
NOTE: Your international student office can provide step-by-step guidance regarding the SSN application process.
Reference: Social Security Administration Fact Sheet
How can I apply for a driver’s license?
A driver’s license is issued by the state where you live and allows you to legally drive in the U.S. It also serves as an official form of identification within the U.S.
Each state has different rules, but to apply you’ll usually need to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and bring:
Passport and visa
Form I-94 (printable on this webpage)
Form I-20 (F-1) or Form DS-2019 (J-1)
Proof of local residence (such as a lease or utility bill)
A Social Security Number (SSN) or, if you are not eligible, a letter from the SSA stating that you are ineligible
NOTE: Your international student office can provide step-by-step guidance regarding the driver’s license application process in your state.
Where can I find help with housing and transportation?
Finding housing and transportation in the U.S. can be a challenge for international students. Off-campus housing may require a lease, a U.S. credit history, or a U.S. co-signer, which can be difficult for students new to the country. Transportation options also vary widely depending on whether your school is in a large city (with public transit) or a smaller town (where cars may be necessary).
If you need help, you can turn to:
Your university’s housing office for on-campus options and off-campus listings
Your international student office for guidance on local resources
Student organizations and peer networks for roommate connections and practical advice
Campus transportation services or local transit websites for information on buses, shuttles, or ride programs (many colleges and universities provide free or discounted transit passes for students)
NOTE: One of the best resources for information about housing and transportation is other international students. Ask them! They often have the most practical and reliable information and advice about these issues. But be sure to check with the international student office, or other appropriate resources, at your school as well.
IMPORTANT: Unfortunately, housing scams specifically target international students who are unfamiliar with local rental practices. Red flags include requests for large upfront payments, pressure to sign quickly, deals that seem too good to be true, and landlords who won’t allow property visits or video tours. When in doubt, consult your school’s off-campus housing services.
U.S. immigration regulations are rapidly changing. Immigration rules can change quickly, and what is accurate today may not be true tomorrow. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific immigration questions or complex situations, consult with a qualified immigration attorney.