Attendance and registration

You must initially attend the school listed on the I-20/DS-2019 you used to apply for your student visa. You must register full time for the fall and spring semesters. Undergraduate students must register for a minimum of 12 credit hours; graduate students must register for a minimum of nine credit hours. Enrollment guidelines will be reviewed in more detail during orientation.

Employment

You will need a Social Security number to work in the United States. More information will be provided during orientation.

On-campus employment

You are allowed to work on campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. During official school breaks, you are allowed to work on campus more than 20 hours per week. J-1 students must report their on-campus employment to International Student and Scholar Services.

Off-campus employment

Under certain circumstances, off-campus employment may be authorized. You must meet with an international student adviser to find out if you qualify.

Completion of studies

Upon completion of studies, you will choose one of the following options:

• Continue your studies at MU or a different school for another degree program. You will need to have your I-20/DS-2019 updated to reflect these changes.
• Apply for employment authorization through Optional Practical Training (F-1 students) or Academic Training (J-1 students).
• Take up to 30 days (J-1 students) or 60 days (F-1 students) to leave the U.S.

Travel

Within the U.S.

You may travel within the U.S. as long as you maintain lawful F or J status and have a valid passport, I-20/DS-2019 and I-94 in your possession.

Outside the U.S.

You may re-enter the U.S. as long as you have a valid passport, F or J visa, financial documents and I-20/DS-2019 that is endorsed for travel by an international student adviser.

For more information, see our travel page.