Upon entering the United States on an F-1 visa, you are granted F-1 status. In order to remain in status while you study at the Tampa Language Center, you must:
- Attend classes on a full-time basis (20 hours per week)
- Keep your I-20 valid
- Pay course fees in full
- You must show progress in your program of study
- If applying for an extension it must be done 30 days before your approved ending date
If you cannot complete the educational program after having been in student status for longer than the anticipated length of the program plus a grace period in a single educational level, or for more than eight consecutive years, you must apply for extension of stay. An application for extension of stay on form 1-538 should be filed with the Immigration and Naturalization Service district office having jurisdiction over your school at least 15 days but no more the 60 days before the expiration of your authorized stay.
- Leave the U.S. within 30 days after completion of your program
- Transfer to another school within 60 days after the completion of your program
A nonimmigrant student is permitted to transfer to a different school provided the transfer procedure is followed. To transfer schools, you should first notify the school you are attending of the intent to transfer, then obtain a FORM I-20 A-B form the school you intend to attend. Transfer will be effected only if you return the Form I-20 AB to the designated school official within 15 days of beginning attendance at the new school. The designated school official with then report the transfer to the Immigration and Naturalization Service.