Current International Students

As an F-1 international student, you are required to maintain full-time status as defined by your academic program. In the event that a compelling academic reason or medical reason occurs, you may be eligible to receive permission for a reduced course load (RCL).

A reduced course load authorization MUST be pre-approved by the International Student Services.

As an F-1 International student, there are a number of things that you will need to travel internationally after your initial arrival in the U.S. When traveling, it is important that you hand carry (instead of packing in checked luggage) the following:

• Valid passport (valid for 6 months after intended period of study)
• Valid F-1 visa
• Form I-20 (Must be signed by International Student Services on page 2. Travel endorsements are valid for one year from the date they were issued. Contact International Student Services to obtain a new signature).
• Proof of financial support
• Contact information of International Student Services at Mercy University

* As long as a student maintains status, the Designated School Official (DSO) will endorse the Form I-20 for the purpose of traveling abroad. Every student is required to contact the DSO in a timely manner in order to establish endorsement eligibility.

*Students under the OPT work authorization must have a valid travel signature every 6 months, as opposed to every year.

Students may also want to consider bringing the following:

• Proof of paying the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee
• Evidence of acceptance or continued enrollment at Mercy University (acceptance letter or transcript)

As an international F-1 student, you must show that you can support the costs of studying and living in the U.S. for the entire duration of your program.  This is required by law.  Annual costs include both Tuition & Living Expenses.  We look to see readily available funding for at least the first year.

Review more information on financing your education

For links to ISS forms, please log into Compass.