F-1 Student Classification

Most international students at BU are in this classification, as it is designed to facilitate study toward a specific educational objective. Please review the outline of F-1 Student Rights and Responsibilities.

F-1 students will receive a Form I-20 from BU once we receive the required admission, biographical, and financial documentation.

Eligibility

To be eligible for F-1 status, you must be admitted to or enrolled in a full-time degree or non-degree program, and demonstrate sufficient financial support for your program of study.

Length of Permitted Stay

As a student in F-1 status, you are admitted to the US for “D/S” (duration of status)—this allows you to stay until the program end date reflected on your Form I-20, as long as you maintain full-time registration, legal status, and a SEVIS record in good standing. At the end of your program of study, F-1 status permits a 60-day grace period for you to prepare for departure from the US.

Considerations

Limited work permission is available for on-campus employment and certain off-campus placements related to your major field of study. Qualifying family members may be eligible for F-2 dependent status.