Resources for Academic Advisors

The ISSO assists and supports international students in many different ways. From immigration to employment to travel, there are many considerations and some limitations that students need to keep in mind to maintain their nonimmigrant status while in the United States.

Immigration 

The ISSO assists F-1 and J-1 international students to maintain their nonimmigrant status while in the U.S. A student’s main purpose for being in the U.S. is to study. There are a number of requirements students must follow to maintain lawful immigration status throughout their stay at BU, and the ISSO helps with this, among other things.

Employment

There are limitations on employment in the U.S. for students in F-1 or J-1 status. The ISSO is here to help students apply for employment authorization during and after their program of study.

Travel

The ISSO assists F-1 and J-1 students with documentation and guidance for international travel during and after their program of study.

Key Points for Advising International Students

ISSO Resources

The success of an international student in the U.S. is enhanced with strong support from academic and professional campus resources, such as an academic advisor, faculty member, career counselor, tutor, or coach. Tools to help you assist international students can be found on the administrators section of our website.

Initial ISSO Check-in

All international students, regardless of immigration status, must complete the Initial ISSO check-in through the ISSOPortal no later than the academic add deadline.  This includes new students and those returning from leave of absence.

Immigration Documents and Dates

The documents and expiration dates that are most important to international students are as follows:

  • Passport must be valid for 6 months into the future at all times
  • U.S. Visa can expire while inside the United States but must be valid to enter the country
  • I-20 or DS-2019 must be extended prior to the Program End Date if more time needed to graduate

Full-time Enrollment and Reduced Course Load Authorizations

    International students are required to be enrolled full time (12 units) in their first term of study and every subsequent fall and spring terms. At least 8 units each term must be in-person. Reduced Course Load authorization can be approved for academic reasons (very limited and normally first term only), final term when they need fewer than 12 units to complete graduation requirements, or medical reasons. Students should contact their ISSO Advisor to learn more about these options and eligibility before dropping below full-time.

    Leaves of Absence

    International students may take a leave of absence for personal or medical reasons.  In addition to requesting leave with University Service Center, they must contact their ISSO Advisor to request termination of their SEVIS record and prepare to depart the U.S.  They should contact the ISSO 3 months before the term they plan to resume study to request a new I-20 or DS-2019. For medical leaves of absence, students may be eligible to apply to ISSO for authorization to remain in the U.S. in valid status for medical treatment.

    On-Campus Employment Restrictions

    International students in F-1 and J-1 status may work on-campus for a maximum of 20 hours per week during fall and spring terms. During winter intercession, spring break, or summer breaks only, on-campus employment hours may exceed 20 per week. However, exceeding the maximum allowable hours of on-campus employment during the academic year is a violation of status. Hiring managers need to be aware when students have multiple on-campus jobs and be careful that the student is not approved to work more than a combined 20 hours per week across hourly and weekly salary jobs, including service fellowships.

    Off-Campus Employment Limitations

    Anytime an international student would like to take part in an off-campus employment or training experience, paid or unpaid, in-person or remote, this experience must be authorized by the ISSO or USCIS in advance. Beginning an internship, placement, experience, or employment opportunity with an off-campus employer without authorization is a violation of status. Most students will be eligible to apply for 1-3 years of authorization to work after they graduate. ISSO provides instructions and workshops about how to apply for work authorization (CPT and OPT for F-1 students, Academic Training for J-1 students).  International students in other types of status may not be eligible for work authorization.

    Advisor-On-Call and Appointments

    Academic advisors and administrators may contact the ISSO at isso@bu.edu or the student’s assigned ISSO advisor with questions or concerns. International students with quick questions should access the Advisor-On-Call virtually or in-person or may email their assigned advisor and/or schedule an appointment for more in-depth questions.

    About the ISSO

    We’re advocates for international exchange, promoting the academic, professional, and personal growth of Boston University’s diverse community of international students, faculty, and staff. Working under BU Global Programs, the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) cultivates campus-wide appreciation for our community’s many contributions that enhance BU’s richness and character. We provide professional expertise on immigration and employment and help students remain in compliance with U.S. federal regulations. ISSO staff are available to guide students and scholars through the often complicated requirements for foreign nationals studying and working in the United States.