This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students. 

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International students and Exchange Visitors must maintain a valid immigration status for the duration of stay in the United States.

1. Report to the International Student Office
Upon arrival in the U.S., please visit the ISO for initial registration in SEVIS within 15 days of the program start date of your first semester at SVA.

2. Enroll in a full course of study (Register Full-Time)
You are required by law to register for a minimum of 12 credits every semester. A reduced course load must be authorized by your academic advisor and ISO before you drop below 12 credits.

3. Update your local address
You are required by law to notify the ISO within 10 days of a change of address.

4. Keep your I-20 or DS-2019 form current
Information listed on your I-20 or DS-2019 form must be kept current at all times. Such information includes your program end date and field of study.  If any of this information changes, you must notify the ISO immediately.  Most importantly, if you cannot finish your program by the end date listed on the I-20 or DS-2019 form, you must have it extended before the program end date.

5. DO NOT engage in unauthorized employment!
Working without authorization is illegal.  F-1 students may work on-campus for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the spring and fall semesters and full-time during vacations. Students may also engage in internships after it is authorized by the ISO. Any off-campus employment, such as Optional Practical Training, must be authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you start working.  Working illegally will put you out of status, and may affect your enrollment at SVA.

6. Obtain a travel signature
You are required to have your I-20 or DS-2019 form endorsed within the past12 months in order to re-enter the U.S. upon traveling abroad.  Please visit the ISO at least 7 days before your departure.

7. Abide by your "duration of status"
Your duration of status ends 60 days after completing the program for F-1 students and 30 days for J-1 students. You must leave the U.S. or transfer to another school by then.  The grace period for an authorized early withdrawal or leave of absence is 15 days.  There is no grace period if you violate your visa status.  Overstaying your visa status is illegal.

8. Keep your documents safe
You must keep your passport valid for at least 6 months ahead, and keep all of your immigration documents in a safe place.  Lost or stolen documents must be reported to the ISO.