The immigration information included in this website is provided as a service to the international students and scholars of the University of Hartford. Immigration law is complex and constantly evolving, and though reasonable efforts will be made to insure the integrity of this site, its accuracy, application, and interpretative nature cannot be insured. This material is not to be construed as legal advice nor does it create an attorney/client relationship. University of Hartford students and scholars are advised to contact International Center staff regarding assistance with the interpretation of immigration law, application for INS benefits, or legal referral. Others viewing this site should seek the advice of an immigration attorney or specialist with regard to immigration regulations.

 

Table of Contents

Introduction 

Foreign nationals who wish to pursue academic studies in the United States may enter this country under several nonimmigrant visa types. The most common is the F-1 student visa. The F-1 visa covers a wide range of educational training, allowing foreign nationals to engage in studies from the elementary to the post doctoral level. Currently, 95% of the international students attending programs of study at the University of Hartford are enrolled under the F-1 visa classification. The information contained in this booklet is accurate at the time of publication. However, international students are advised to be aware that current immigration law is subject to change by the U.S. Federal government at any time, as well as to changes in interpretation by the U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIS). When questions arise regarding the implementation and interpretation of immigration law, students are advised to consult with the staff of the International Center, in particular, with the Associate Director who is responsible for Immigration related matters. The International Center is located in the Gengras Student Union, room 327 (ph# 768-4870).

 

What is an F-1 Student?

Immigration regulations define an F-1 student as an "alien who has a residence in a foreign country which he or she has no intention of abandoning, who is a bona fide student qualified to pursue a full course of study and who entered the United States temporarily and solely for the purpose of pursuing such a course of study at an established institution of learning or other place of study in the United States." CIS regulations further state that an F-1 student is a "foreign national who is attending a college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic institution, or, language training program, on a full-time basis, in a course of study which leads to the attainment of a specific educational or professional objective." In the case of the University of Hartford, that objective is the successful completion of a degree or certificate program.

 

Institutional Responsibility

The University of Hartford has been authorized by the CIS to issue the I-20 AB Certificate of Eligibility Form to foreign nationals who wish to enroll in our programs of study. By accepting this approval, the University assumes certain responsibilities and duties assigned by federal regulations. In general, the University has agreed to follow all INS regulations and reporting requirements related to the acceptance, enrollment, and maintenance of status of all F-1 students. The Associate Director of the International Center has been assigned by the University to act as the "Primary Designated School Official" (PDSO). As the PDSO, the Associate Director is the person authorized to sign immigration documents, advise students, faculty, and staff on immigration matters, and act as University liaison to the Immigration Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of State, and U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

 

Obtaining an F-1 Visa  

Prospective students who wish to attend the University of Hartford on an F-1 visa must apply for that visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad (unless exempt from visa requirements). Applicants will be required to present to a consulate official a valid passport (unless exempt from passport requirements), a completed I-20 AB form issued by the University, proof of financial sponsorship, and evidence of English proficiency. Students should also be prepared to demonstrate that they have a residence in a foreign country that they have no intention of abandoning. In most cases, an interview will be required. Upon review of the applicant's visa request, a U.S. consular official will determine whether the prospective student has met all requirements for nonimmigrant student status. If approved, the official will place a visa stamp in the applicant's passport noting the period of validity and the number of entries allowed to the U.S. The name of the University will also be placed on the visa page. The consular official will return the I-20 AB form to the student in a sealed envelope. This document will be needed to enter the U.S.

On occasion, it may be impossible for the University to deliver an I-20 AB form to the student in time for visa processing and arrival preparations. It is possible for a student to apply for a "prospective student" B-2 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy to facilitate a timely arrival to this country. Students who find themselves in this situation should be cautioned to consult with the staff of the International Center prior to making arrangements for this type of visa. It will be very difficult to change your status from B-2 to F-1 in the U.S. and we do not recommend that you follow this procedure.  It is probable that you will be required to defer your admission to a future semester.

 

Arrival in the U.S. and at the University of Hartford

Student may enter the U.S. no sooner than 30 days prior to the beginning of a program of study. Upon arrival in a U.S. port of entry, F-1 students are required to present their passport, visa, and I-20 AB form to an immigration officer. If found admissible to this country, the officer will issue the student an I-94 Arrival/Departure form indicating his or her immigration status and the length of time he or she may remain in the U.S. The immigration officer may keep page 1 and return page 3 of the I-20 AB form to the student. Page may be forward by the INS officer to a processing facility  to computerize your record of entry.  After the processing is completed, the INS will forward page one to the University who will then return it to you.  You must maintain possession of the complete form. It is your "record" of admittance to the U.S. and will be required if you need a Social Security number for employment or a Connecticut driver's license.  You will also need this document for future travel outside the U.S.  All entering students will be photographed and fingerprinted as part of the U.S governments "Entry/Exit Registration System.

Upon arrival at the University, F-1 students are required to visit the International Center. At that time, a staff member will review all immigration entry documents and record information that is required by the University and the CIS (information will be entered into the CIS SEVIS System). New international students to the University will not be allowed to "register" for classes unless they have been processed and "released" by the International Center.

In addition, students will be given an orientation to the immigration laws and University policies which affect their stay in the U.S. Additional information will be provided regarding the various University department and administrative services available to students, as well as information regarding the services and programs offered by the International Center.

F-1 Full-Time Student Status Requirement

The Immigration and Naturalization Service stipulates that an international student entering the U.S. on an F-1 visa, issued by a U.S. consulate or embassy for attendance at the University of Hartford, must attend this institution and be enrolled as a full-time student.

The University of Hartford Manual of Academic Policies and Procedures (VI,B,1 & 2) defines the criteria to be used to determine full-time status for all students.

"A minimum load of twelve credits per semester is required to be classified as a full-time undergraduate student."

"A minimum load of nine credits per semester is required to be classified as a full-time graduate student.

These definitions apply to international students holding an F-1 visa, regardless of national origin or citizenship status.

Reduced Course load

The University is required to report the enrollment status of all F-1 international students to the U.S. Immigration Service. Therefore, all students who are considering the possibility of carrying less than a full-time academic load are required to discuss this fact with the International Center before registering or withdrawing from courses. A staff member will try to determine the validity of the student's reason for a reduced course load and the effect that this decision will have on the student's immigration status. The International Center will advise the student of current immigration law and recommend a course of action best suited to the student's situation. The final decision to attend class on a part-time basis is left to the discretion of the student. There are few reasons acceptable to the INS for carrying less than a full-time course load, and international students who drop below the minimum credit requirement do so at their own risk. Students enrolled part time will be considered "out of status" by the CIS and may be required to petition the INS for permission to be "reinstated to student status" before they may resume their program of study (see "Reinstatement to Student Status"). Failure to maintain full-time status may result in the removal of a student from the University by the CIS.

A student must be enrolled on a full-time basis from the beginning of a semester to its completion. Full-time enrollment is mandatory for the Fall and Spring semesters. Students who are in their last semester of study prior to graduation, and who need less than a full-time credit load to complete their program, may attend part time for that semester.  Enrollment during the summer semester is optional unless it is specified on the student's I-20 form or required as part of the student's program of study. Courses taken on an "audit" basis may not be counted toward the fulfillment of the full-time requirement. A student who receives a grade of "incomplete" (I), "no grade" (NG), or "no record" (NR) at the end of a semester may complete that course during the following semester in accordance with University policy; the course may not be counted toward the full-time requirement of the new semester.

Combining English Language Study with a Degree Program

Students who have been accepted into a degree program but have not met the English proficiency standards of the University, may be required to enroll in our English Language Institute (ELI) for a minimum of one semester. At the discretion of the director of ELI and undergraduate/graduate admission staff, a student may be required to attend ELI on a full- or part-time basis. Though this program does not grant traditional course credits, it does provide equivalent course instruction which may be equal to the credit hours needed to meet the INS full-time status requirement. A student enrolled in ELI on a full-time basis will be considered enrolled full-time by the INS. A student enrolled on a part-time basis must also be concurrently enrolled in traditional course work. The total combination of ELI instruction and degree-related courses must be equal to the full-time status requirement defined at the beginning of this section.

Students enrolled in the Artist Diploma, Graduate Professional Diploma, DMA, Psy.D., or Ed.D program may take a minimum of six credits per semester to meet the full-time requirement. The International Center may require documentation from the student's academic advisor authorizing a six-credit load.

When signing a registration or drop/add form that will reduce the academic load of an international student to part-time status, academic advisors are required to have the student speak to a staff member from the international Center prior to signing. This intervention measure will insure that students understand the problems which may occur as a result of their action and allow time for possible alternative measures to be sought.

Reasons acceptable to the CIS for part-time study may include verifiable physical or emotional medical problems, unforeseen economic difficulties, improper course/level placement, unfamiliarity with American teaching methods or reading requirements, or difficulties with the English language. The International Center may authorize part-time enrollment in a limited number of instances.

Under no circumstances may a international student enroll part-time without the written permission of the International Center.  A student who enrolls part-time without this authorization will be considered "out of student status."

Withdrawal from a course of study

A student who withdraws completely from their program of study must depart from the U.S. within 15 days of the withdrawal. A student who remains beyond the 15 day period is in violation of Federal regulations and may be subject to deportation proceeding and other possible sanctions.

 

F-1 Extension of Stay

F-1 students attending degree or certificate-granting programs offered by the University of Hartford are expected by the Immigration Service to complete their programs within a reasonable time period. F-1 students are admitted into the United States for "Duration of Status" (see: "Note" below). Therefore, they are generally not required to apply for an extension of stay as long as they are making normal progress toward completing their educational objectives. Upon acceptance to the University, F-1 students are issued an I-20 AB form which states the anticipated completion date of their intended program of study. The International Center has calculated the typical time it will take for a student to reasonably complete a specific degree or certificate program and has notated that on a student's I-20 form.  The ending date given on the I-20 form allows sufficient time to complete a program for virtually all students.

F-1 students who are unable to meet the program completion date stated on the I-20 AB form  may, under certain conditions, be granted an extension of stay by the INS to complete their program of study. To file for an extension of stay, students must show that they have continually maintained full-time student status and that the delays are caused by "compelling" academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research problems, or documented illnesses. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for a program extension and the INS may deny an extension request on those grounds. An F-1 student who is unable to complete an educational program within the time period stated on the I-20 AB form, and who does not have a "compelling" academic or medical reason to justify the extension, is considered to be "out of student status" by the CIS. A student in this situation is required to seek "reinstatement" to student status through the CIS (see: "Reinstatement to Student Status").

Students are advised to make note of the program completion date stated on their I-20 AB form. Should that date expire and they have not yet completed their course of study, they must seek an extension of their stay or reinstatement to their F-1 student status through the International Center.

An extension of stay request must be completed prior to the date of completion stated on the I-20 AB form. The following documentation must be submitted to the International Center for approval and notification to the INS:

The International Center will process the request for extension and issue a new I-20 form which notates the approval.   The INS will be notified of the student's approval for an extension of stay through the SEVIS system.

An extension of stay request will be considered approved by the INS so long as the International Center certifies that the student has met the service's requirements.

NOTE:
Duration of Status" is defined as the "time during which an F-1 student is pursuing a full course of study at an educational institution approved by the Immigration Service for attendance by foreign students, or engaging in authorized practical training following completion of studies, plus 60 days to prepare for departure from the United States.

 

F-1 Reinstatement to Student Status

Any F-1 student who has failed to maintain full-time status or who has overstayed his or her authorized period of stay is considered to be "out of student status" by the Immigration Service. A student who is deemed to be "out of status" may be reinstated to lawful F-1 status at the discretion of the Immigration Service. A student who has been out of status for than 5 months is typically ineligible for reinstatement.

Conditions for Reinstatement

Reinstatement must meet the following conditions:

Documentation

The following documentation must be submitted to the INS to process a request for "Reinstatement to Student Status."

Note:
This documentation must be forwarded to the CIS. Though there may be exceptions, students who are deemed to be "out of status" may not resume studies at the University unless they have submitted a request to the CIS for reinstatement. Students denied reinstatement may not resume or continue studies and must leave the U.S. by a time determined by the Immigration Service. A student in this situation should consult with the staff of the International Center before attempting to pursue any further course work.

 

F-1 On-Campus Employment

F-1 and J-1 students and exchange visitors enrolled at the University of Hartford may be authorized to engage in on-campus employment opportunities by the Citizenship and Immigration Service or the Department of State. Depending on your visa class, you may be required to have specific authorization from the CIS or DOS.  Before beginning on-campus employment, we suggest that you contact the International Center to insure your eligibility to be employed.

F-1 Employment - Immigration and University Guidelines

International students who are engaged in off-campus employment, including internships, CO-OP, "economic hardship" employment,  or any form of pre-completion practical training, may not work more than 20 hours per week while school is in session (exception is made only for those undergraduate students officially enrolled in an "alternating" CO-OP program). Students who simultaneously participate in both off- and on-campus employment are restricted to no more than 20 hours of work per week, in the aggregate, while school is in session.

Students who wish to work on-campus are required to go to the Social Security Administration Office in Hartford to apply for a Social Security identification number. Generally, students are not required to pay social security taxes though they may be required to pay federal and state taxes based on income earned during the course of a year.

Students are required to complete the I-9 form (employment eligibility form) and W-4 forms (federal and State withholding tax forms) at the time they begin employment. These forms are provided to the student employee by their supervisor or the Human Resource Department (HRD).

 

F-1 Off-Campus Employment "Economic Hardship"

Students holding an F-1 visa who find themselves in financial difficulties during their academic studies at the University of Hartford may petition the Immigration Service for permission to engage in part-time, off-campus employment based on economic hardship. The Immigration Service considers economic hardship to be financial difficulties caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond the student's control (e.g., loss of scholarship, loss of financial sponsorship, unforeseen medical expenses, substantial fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rates, etc.).

Eligibility Requirements

• A student must be in F-1 status for one full academic year or two consecutive semesters.

• A student must be in good academic standing.

• A student must be enrolled on a full-time basis and continue in that status while employed. Employment may not interfere with the student's full course of study.

• A student may not work more than 20 hours per week while school is in session. During vacation periods/summer break, a student may work full time. Students who are currently employed on campus (including assistantship awards which require work for tuition payment), or who already are in possession of an off-campus work permit (and are employed off-campus), are limited to 20 hours per week in the aggregate.

• The INS requires that a student make a "good faith" effort to pursue employment authorization  on-campus prior to requesting employment based on economic hardship. A student should be prepared to demonstrate that such employment is not available.

Application Procedures

Off-campus employment based on economic hardship must be approved by the Immigration Service. The following documents should be submitted to the International Center for its recommendation prior to submitting the request to the INS for adjudication. The following documentation is required:

1. INS form I-765 and INS I-765

2. INS form I-538 (certification by the International Center is required stating that employment opportunities on-campus  are either insufficient or unavailable to the student.

3. A check or money order for $175 (made out to the "Immigration Service").

4. I-20 (copy) with a recommendation from the international Center.

5. A written statement from the student outlining the need for off-campus employment based on economic hardship.

6. Two photos

Note: Application material must be sent to the CIS Service Center in St. Albans, Vermont.

A student may not begin off-campus employment under "economic hardship" without the permission of the CIS. Upon approval of a student's request, the CIS will issue an "Employment Authorization Document" indicating that off-campus employment has been granted and the duration of that permission. The CIS will authorize employment in one-year intervals up to the expected date of completion of the student's course of study. Students may renew their employment permission only if they are maintaining legal F-1 status and are in good academic standing. Employment authorization is automatically terminated if a student fails to maintain his or her nonimmigrant F-1 status. There is no possibility to appeal a request for employment under "economic hardship" that has been denied by the CIS.

 

F-1 Practical Training 

An important benefit under the F-1 student visa classification is called practical training. Practical training offers international students the opportunity to participate in degree-related work experiences, either prior to graduation or upon completion of a degree or certificate program. The University is currently authorized to provide practical training recommendations to the Immigration Service, on behalf of students prior to graduation, in the form of internships and cooperative education work experiences or in the form of optional practical training during the academic year or vacation periods. Upon the completion of a course of study, the University may also recommend that the INS authorize a student's participation in an optional post-completion practical training experience.

Curricular Practical Training

Curricular Practical Training is degree-related work authorization granted to an international student prior to graduation. INS regulations authorize the University to provide two forms of curricular training: internships and CO-OP work experience.

Immigration and University Guidelines for Participation

Filing Procedures

A student who wishes to participate in a curricular practical training experience is required to seek authorization from the International Center. The International Center will then notify the INS of the student's participation. The following documentation and approvals are required:

Note:
Curricular practical training of 20 hours or less per week is considered part-time employment. Training above 20 hours per week is considered full-time employment.

* Students who have received one year (12 months) or more of full-time curricular practical training are ineligible for post-completion practical training.

* Students enrolled in CO-OP or internship programs may receive financial compensation for employment services rendered.

* An employer does not have to meet Department of Labor "attestation" requirements when employing University students under curricular practical training.

* Students enrolled in the ELI program are ineligible for internship or CO-OP work experiences under curricular practical training.

* There is no fee charged by the CIS or the University to process a curricular practical training request.

* An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is not required from the CIS.

 

Optional Pre-Completion Practical Training

A student enrolled in a degree or certificate program may apply to the CIS for permission to participate in an optional practical training work experience prior to the completion of his/her program of study for a period not to exceed 12 months.

    Immigration and University Guidelines for Participation

    A student may participate only in the following cases:

    Filing Procedures and Process

The following documents must be provided to the International Center prior to requesting practical training authorization from the CIS:

The International Center must certify that the proposed employment is directly related to the student's field of study and is commensurate with the student's educational level. The International Center must also endorse the I-20 form to indicate that practical training has been "recommended" either full-time or part-time (including the start and end date of employment). Approved documentation will be forwarded to the CIS Service Center, St. Albans, Vermont, for adjudication. The CIS will review documents, and if approved, issue an "Employment Authorization Document" (EAD) to the student. Generally, this approval process will take four to six weeks. Students may not engage in training until they have secured this approval and are in possession of an EAD card. It is suggested that students begin the process as soon as possible to avoid delays in beginning employment but no sooner than 120 days prior to the beginning of expected employment.

Note:
In some instances, a student who is granted practical training, and who does not participate in a training experience during the time limits stated on the Employment Authorization Document issued by the INS, will lose that training time: this time will be deducted from the 12-month allotment whether the student works or not. The INS will not grant an extension of the 12-month total allotment for practical training under any circumstances.

 

Optional Post-Completion Practical Training

 

Upon the completion of a degree or certificate program, international students who possess an F-1 visa may be eligible to apply to the Citizenship and Immigration Service for authorization to participate in a program-related work experience.  Under this provision, international students must meet certain Federal government and University of Hartford requirements to be eligible. Information posted here is current as of 08/01/2007 but is subject to change by the CIS at anytime.  Please check with the International Center for the most up to date information.

Immigration and University Guidelines for Participation

• Students must have completed all the course requirements of their degree or certificate program before a recommendation may be granted by the Associate Director of the International Center (AD)

• Students must have been in F-1 student status for a minimum of one academic year.

• Students may apply for a Practical Training recommendation from the AD and employment authorization from the Immigration Service 120 days prior to the completion of a program of study.  Completion of "course of study" is typically defined as the "last day of your last final exam" not the official University day of graduation. The CIS requires receipt of your training request by that date.  Any requests submitted to the AD after that date will be rejected for submission to the CIS. Students are not required to have an employment offer.  A student will be granted a 12 month training period if found eligible for Practical Training by the CIS.  Students who have received CIS permission for Practical Training, and who have not yet secured employment, will have the 12 month period in which to find, begin, and complete their training program.

 
Filing Procedures

Students who wish to participate in a Post-Completion Practical Training experience must request a recommendation from the AD and authorization from INS.

 The following documentation is required to process a request:

•  Passport and I-94 form.

• All I-20 forms that have been issued to you either by the University of Hartford or another educational institution.

•  A current I-20 AB form to be endorsed by the AD to reflect that Practical Training is recommended for the student.

•  A completed, signed and endorsed CIS form I-538

•  Two passport type personal photographs, in color. Photo's should measure 2  X  2  inches. 

• The CIS charges a $340 fee (effective 7/30/2007) that must accompany this application.  The fee must be paid in the form of a personal check, bank draft, or money order (cash is not accepted by CIS). Your check must be made out to "U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service"  

•  A written statement from the student requesting a Practical Training work authorization from the International Center, including a description of the type of employment the student wishes to participate in.

•  Photocopy of all "identifying" pages of your passport including the U.S. visa page.

•  Photocopy of the front and back of the I-94 "Arrival/Departure record."

•  An individual who must register under the NSEERS call-up Registration must show proof that they did, in fact, register.  This should include a copy of both sides of the I-94; the back will show a notation regarding registration and an "IFN #".  The student should also write a brief letter stating the date and location of registration.

 

Process

The AD will review all documentation. The AD will also endorse the student's I-20 AB form to indicate that Practical Training is recommended and the date that the training will commence.  Students will be instructed to mail (certified mail recommended) to the Vermont Service Center of the CIS (jurisdiction over the University of Hartford) the documents required by the CIS for Practical Training approval.  The request packet should include a newly endorsed I-20  Form, a completed and signed I-765 form, a photocopy of your signed I-538 form, photocopies of all previously issued I-20 forms, photocopies of your passport, US visa and I-94 card, a check for $ 340 made out to the "U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service," two photographs (signed on the reverse side, including your SEVIS ID number), and a letter from the student requesting Practical Training approval.  Upon approval of a student's request, the CIS will return an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) the student. 

It will typically take the INS 8-12 weeks to process a request. Upon receipt of the card,  students are required to present this document to the International Center so it may be copied and placed into their University record.  Students who have employment offers may begin to work once the Immigration Service has issued the EAD (but in no case before the completion of studies).  CIS regulations state that a student may not appeal a denial of a Practical Training request issued by the service.

The CIS Service Center located in St. Albans, Vermont (the office that will review all Practical Training requests for students residing in Connecticut) may require up to 8 weeks or more to adjudicate a Practical Training request.  Regardless of the time it takes the CIS to complete the process, students may not begin employment until they have been issued an Employment Authorization Document by the Service Center. 

Note  

• The University cannot guarantee the approval of a Practical Training experience for any international student.  Final authorization may only be granted by the CIS, provided the student meets all requirements and is found eligible (the University may only recommend, not authorize Practical Training to CIS on a student's behalf).
   

• Securing employment is the responsibility of the student.  The International Center is not obligated nor will it officially seek employment opportunities for individual international students. 
   

• Students may apply for a Practical Training recommendation from the International Center and employment authorization from CIS 120 days prior to the completion of a program of study.  Completion of "course of study is typically defined as the "last day of your last final exam, not the official University day of graduation.  The CIS requires receipt of your training request by that date.  Any requests submitted to the International Center after that date will be rejected for submission to the CIS.
   

• The maximum amount of time granted for post-completion Practical Training is 12 months.  This period of time may be split into two or more training periods.  Generally, students may be authorized only one twelve-month training period although a student may be eligible for a second period of training following the completion of a new program of study.  The new program must be at a higher level than the previous program, i.e. bachelor to masters, or masters to doctorate.
   

• On and Off-campus employment positions held by students while enrolled at the University will not generally affect the 12 month Practical Training benefit.  Students who have engaged in a full-time Curricular Practical Training experience (CO-OP or internship) prior to graduation for 12 months or more, will be prohibited from engaging in Practical Training following graduation.  In some instances, Curricular Practical Training may be deducted from the 12-month training allowance. Please speak with the International Center if you have been employed under a COOP arrangement or participated in an off-campus internship. 
   

• Students will be required to secure a Social Security number that is valid for employment.  Students may be required to pay Federal and State income taxes based on the amount of earned income.  Generally, students are not required to pay Social Security taxes while employed under the F-1 visa category, though if you have been in the U.S. for five or more years you may be subject to the tax.  International students are advised to become familiar with Federal and State laws regarding the payment of income and social security taxes. 
   

• Students will be required to complete an I-9 Form for their employer within 3 days of the start of work.
   

• Generally, students who have requested Practical Training should not travel outside the United States until they have been granted employment authorization and have been issued an Employment Authorization Document by the CIS. In addition students are required to have a written document specifying that they either are currently employed or are being offered employment. This letter must be on company letterhead.
  
  Students who leave the U.S. following their completion of studies without obtaining their EAD card from the CIS or a letter of employment, may risk difficulty re-entering the U.S. to pursue Practical Training.  You should speak with the International Center about your travel plans before they are made to insure there are no potential problems with your travel arrangements
   

• Students completing our ELI program may not participate in Post-Completion Practical Training.
   

• Though a student may no longer be enrolled in a program of study, the University still maintains certain reporting requirements to the CIS.   The CIS considers a relationship to exist between the student and the University of Hartford while that student participates in a Practical Training experience; for example, students on Practical Training are still required to obtain a current signature from the Center for travel and must report any change of local or permanent address to us within ten days.

 

Practical Training Sample Letter

An F-1 International Student who wishes to partici­pate in a post-completion Practical Training work experi­ence is required to submit a written request to the International Center for its recommendation to the Immigration Service.  In writing this letter you may wish to follow the suggested format below.

Date
Citizenship and Immigration Service
Vermont Service Center
St. Albans, VT 05479-9765

RE: Request to participate in Post-Completion Practical Training

To whom this may concern:

My name is (insert), and I am currently enrolled as a full-time student at the University of Hartford.  I am a matriculated stu­dent in the (name of degree program) and will complete my course of study on (insert date). I wish to apply for Post-Completion Practical Training work authorization.

 This second paragraph should explain why you wish to apply for Practical Training, what type of training you are interested in receiving, and how this training will benefit you when you return home.

Please grant my request for Practical Training, so I may have the opportunity to apply the theory learned in class to the realities of a work environment.  Upon completion of my Practical Training, I intend to return my home country, (insert country name).

Sincerely,

Your Name

Your Address and Phone Number

 

F-1 Transfer to the University of Hartford

F-1 students who are transferring to the University of Hartford from another college or university in the U.S. may be required to notify the Immigration and Naturalization Service of their intention to transfer. Students should follow the procedures outlined below according to their personal situation. These procedures are for transferring from one SEVIS school to another.

Students Traveling Outside the U.S. Prior to Enrollment at the University of Hartford

Students not Leaving the U.S. Prior to Enrollment at the University of Hartford

F-1 Transfer to Another Institution from the University of Hartford

F-1 students who are transferring from the University of Hartford to another U.S. college or university are required to notify the Immigration and Naturalization Service of their intention. Students should follow the procedures outlined below. These procedures are for transferring from one SEVIS school to another.

Students Traveling Outside the U.S. Prior to Enrollment in a New School

Students not Leaving the U.S. Prior to Enrollment in a New School

Note:
The foreign student advisor's notification to the INS on the SEVIS system is essential to complete the transfer process (if the student is transferring schools without leaving the U.S.). Without the FSA's notification, the transfer is not validated and the student will be considered "out of status" by the INS within 15 days following enrollment at the new school.

 

F-1 Visits Abroad and Re-entry into the U.S.

All international students in possession of an F visa, who wish to leave the United States temporarily and return to the University of Hartford to continue studies, must secure the necessary documents to permit entry to another country and re-entry into the United States.

Entry into Another Country from the United States

Students who are in F status and wish to visit their home country of citizenship or permanent residence, or, who wish to travel to a third country (one in which they are not a citizen or permanent resident), should be in possession of the following documents: 

• A valid passport.
   

• Immigration form I-94.
   

• Evidence of return transportation to the U.S.
   

• Sufficient funds for the duration of their stay outside the U.S., particularly if they are traveling to a third country.
   

• An original I-20 form, properly endorsed by the International Center.
   

• Depending upon the country that is to be visited, students may be required to obtain an entry visa. Visas may be obtained through consular offices located in New York City, Boston, or Washington, D.C. Addresses and phone numbers are available from the International Center.
   

• Evidence of full-time student status in the form of a Transcript (this may be obtained from the Registrar's Office) or a verification letter from the International Center.
   

Re-entry into the United States

Students in F-1 status must present the following documents to a U.S. port of entry officer upon their re-entry into the United States following a temporary absence: 

• A valid passport and visa (unless exempt from passport or visa requirements).
   

• A properly endorsed I-20 form with a current signature from the International Center.
   

• Financial support documentation.
   

• Evidence of full-time student status in the form of a Transcript (this may be obtained from the Registrar's Office) or a verification letter from the International Center and a copy of a current or future course registration form.

Visa Revalidation

To re-enter the U.S., students must be in possession of a valid F or J  visa stamp in their passport (exceptions may be made for students re-entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or some Caribbean islands, or, if they are exempt from visa and passport requirements). Consequently, students who entered the U.S. in another nonimmigrant visa classification and have changed status to that of an F or J student must obtain an F-1  visa before re-entering the U.S. It is not possible to obtain an F or J visa inside the United States.  F -1 students must apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad if they need to obtain a visa in order to enter the U.S. after a temporary absence.

While it is possible for international students to secure an original or renewal of an F-1 visa in a foreign country other than their own, they may face more stringent requirements than those imposed by U. S. consular officials in their home country of residence. In addition to proving eligibility for an F-1 visa, you may have to convince the consular official that there is a legitimate reason for making the application outside your home country. In some instances, the consular official in the third country will find it necessary to check with a consular official in the student's place of residence to insure his or her eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa. This can be time-consuming and can result in a financial charge to the student if information is requested by cable rather than diplomatic mail. Students are advised to make travel plans which allow for possible delays. Depending on your country, appointments to obtain a visa may take up to several months.

The documents needed for visa revalidation include: 

• A valid passport.
   

• A current photograph.
   

• A valid I-20 form with a current endorsement from the International Center
   

• Proof of financial support
  .

• A Transcript of your academic record at the University
   

• At the discretion of a consular official, further documentation may be required.

Advance Notification

Under certain circumstances, an F or J student who has an expired visa and intends to pay a temporary visit abroad can request the U.S. Department of State to pre-authorize a new visa. This pre-authorization procedure involves a notification from the Department of State to the U.S. consulate or embassy that a student will be applying to for a visa and that they have no objection. This process can expedite visa requests for those students who believe they will have difficulties renewing their visas, either in their home country of residence or in a third country. Only students meeting specific guidelines, as outlined by the Department of State, qualify for this type of service: 

• The student is going home for a few days on account of a verifiable family emergency.
   

• The student is planning to travel to a third country for a brief period to participate in a conference or seminar.
   

• The student is planning to travel to a third country for a short time as a member of a tour group.  

Pre-authorization of visas for F and J students is a limited and highly defined service. Students wishing to utilize this service are requested to contact the International Center for further information regarding qualification and request procedures.

Note:
International students should not leave the United States for travel abroad without first discussing their travel plans with a staff member from the International Center. This should be done at least two weeks before departure. If a student leaves the U.S. without a current or properly endorsed  I-20  form, he or she may be denied re-entry into the United States

 

Travel to Canada

F-1 students who wish to travel to Canada require a Canadian visitors visa unless they are citizens of countries exempt from Canadian nonimmigrant visa requirements (the International Center has a list of countries whose citizens are exempt from this requirement). The Canadian government advises that, at least three weeks in advance of a planned trip to Canada, students submit to the appropriate Canadian consular office a completed Visitor Visa Application form (form IMM 1296), valid passport, I-94 form, two passport-size photographs, proof of adequate funds for the intended stay in Canada, a current I-20 AB form and any old I-20 AB(s). These documents may be sent by certified mail, along with a return envelope with postage paid for certified mail, to a Canadian consulate in the U.S. At the discretion of the student, these documents may be taken directly to a Canadian consulate to initiate the visa request.

The Canadian government currently charges a processing fee of $100 for an individual "single entry" tourist visa, and $140.00 for an individual "multiple entry" visa (the cost is often subject to change). Citizens of countries who are not required to obtain a tourist visa to enter Canada are exempt from this processing fee. For citizens of some countries, an interview may be required before a Canadian tourist visa will be issued. Students wishing to visit Canada should telephone the Canadian consulate in their area to ascertain whether or not an interview will be required and the days and hours of the consulate's operation. Students attending the University of Hartford are asked to contact the Canadian consulate in New York City for information or visa requests:

Canadian Consulate
1251 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020

Telephone:
1-212-596-1700 visa information
1-212-596-1600 general information

Students holding an expired F-1 visa may enter Canada. A new visa is not required so long as the stay in Canada is less than 30 days. However, students must have a valid passport and meet all other requirements for their entry to Canada and their return to the U.S.

All students planning to visit Canada, or any other area outside the U.S., are required to present their immigration documents (I-20 AB form and passport) to the International Center for an authorization signature. Failure to obtain the appropriate signature on  the I-20 form may result in the denial of a student's re-entry into the U.S. to continue studies.

Questions regarding travel plans outside the United States should be referred to the International Center. Students requiring authorization for travel should make those arrangements one to two weeks prior to their departure from the U.S.

 

F-2 Dependent Status

The spouse and unmarried minor children of a student holding an F-1 visa may accompany the student to the United States or follow to join the student at a later date. They will be accorded F-2 status provided they establish to the satisfaction of a consular official (and later to a U.S. port of entry officer) that (a) they have sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the U.S., or, that other arrangements have been made to provide for their expenses, and (b) they intend to, and will be able to depart from the U.S., upon the termination of the status of the principal alien (F-1 student).

Obtaining a Visa

An F-1 student's spouse/children must apply for an F-2 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy (unless exempt from visa and passport requirements). The applicant must present to the consular official an  I-20 AB form issued in their name and any other documents that may be required to demonstrate eligibility for F-2 status. These documents may include such items as marriage and birth certificates, financial statements of support, and proof that the applicant will return to his or her home country of residence following the termination of the principal alien's course of study.

University Requirements to Obtain an I-20 AB form for an F-2 Visa

F-1 students who wish to bring their spouse or minor children to the U.S. must meet certain University of Hartford requirements before an I-20 AB form may be issued:

• Clearance from the student's home government, international organization, or U.S. agency which provides financial support to the student, if applicable.

• Satisfactory evidence of financial support. This evidence may be presented to the International Center in the form of (a) an official statement of savings on deposit in a U.S. bank, (b) a certified guarantee from a sponsor living in the U.S., including bank statements showing that funds are available, (c) an official document from the student's home government or sponsoring agency authorizing currency exchange for dependents or, (d) a combination of the above.

The International Center will determine whether the documentation meets the financial requirements of the University in order to issue an I-20 AB for an F-2 visa. Students should consult with the International Center regarding current requirements.

On arrival to the University, the student and dependent(s) are required to meet with a staff member of the International Center to insure that the immigration documents of the dependent are in order.

Employment

Individuals holding F-2 dependent student status may not accept full or part-time employment, or engage in business activities under any circumstances while in the U.S. Employment can not be authorized for either on-campus or off-campus work. Dependents in F-2 status, discovered to be working on or off campus by the Immigration Service, may be subject to removal from the U.S.

Visits Abroad and Re-entry to the U.S.

An F-2 dependent leaving the U.S. temporarily must be certain to carry the documents necessary to enter the country being visited and to re-enter the U.S. F-2 dependents should have in their possession (a) a valid passport and visa, (b) a properly endorsed I-20 form with a current signature from the International Center. Dependents should contact the International Center to discuss their travel arrangements and to insure that their travel documents are in order.

Extension of Stay

It is not necessary for an F-2 spouse or minor children to apply for an extension of stay, unless the duration of stay for the F-1 student has expired. An F-2 spouse and minor children are included in the F-1 student's request for extension of stay made to the Immigration Service. The approval of an F-2 extension will be made at the time of the F-1 approval and should be valid for the duration of stay given to the F-1 student.

School Attendance

An F-2 dependent may enroll in a program of study, including degree or certificate-granting programs, only as a part-time student. Dependents may remain in a course of study as long as the F-1 principal alien continues to maintain legal F-1 status. If the F-2 dependent wishes to continue studies beyond the expiration of the F-1 student's status, the F-2 dependent must apply for a change of status from F-2 to F-1 or to another legal status which allows educational studies. An F-2 dependent who wishes to enroll in a course of study as a full-time student  must change their status to F-1.

A child dependent(s) of an F-1 student may only attend an elementary or secondary school on a full-time basis.  They are prohibited from attending higher education programs and must apply for an F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa to do so.

Departure or Termination of Status

The status of an F-2 dependent is terminated upon the completion of the F-1 student's program. An F-2 dependent is expected to leave the U.S. no later than the departure date of the F-1 student. F-2 dependents may remain in the U.S. with their spouse no longer than 60 days following the completion of the student's program of study.

 

Federal Income Taxes

All international students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas are required to file an "income tax return form" with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. A return must be filed whether you earned any income in the U.S. or not. Generally, tax return forms must be submitted by April 15th of each year for the previous year. It is the responsibility of each student and scholar to submit the tax statement and failure to do so may subject the individual to penalties from the U.S. Federal government. Click here for further guidance regarding Income Tax responsibility