Current F-1 Students

Maintain your F-1 Visa Status

During your time as an international student at Santa Fe College, you will be required to comply with the F-1 visa regulations and maintain your status for the duration of your degree program. ISS Advisors are here to assist you and answer any questions related to your F-1 visa status. You are encouraged to contact an ISS Advisor with any doubts or concerns. Remember, we are here to help and support you during your time at the college.

To register for 12 credit hours in each Fall & Spring semester

  • You must take at least 12 credit hours unless you are approved by International Student Services for a Reduced Course Load.
  • You must organize your schedule of classes to occur across the entire Fall and Spring semester (including A, B and G short terms).
  • You may take one or more online classes each Fall and Spring semester after registering for 9 credits on campus.
  • Summer semester is a vacation semester, except for new students who will begin the academic program of studies in the summer semester.

To be aware of Program End Dates on the I-20

  • If you need additional time to complete the requirements for your degree program, request an appointment with International Student Services to discuss the possibility of applying for an extension before the program end date.
  • If your Program End Date has passed, but you have not completed your degree program you might have an F1 visa violation. Request an urgent appointment with International Student Services to discuss your circumstances and possibilities for resolution.
  • If your Program End has passed, and you have completed your degree program, you must make a decision to:
    • exit the U.S within 60 days of your Program End Date, or
    • transfer within 60 days to a Bachelor degree program, either at SF or another College or University.
    • Request an appointment with International Student Services to discuss your possibilities.

Learn more about I-20 Extension

To update Address and Personal Contact information within 10 days of a Change

  • Update your physical address of residence in Gainesville, Florida, your telephone number, your email address and your emergency contact information.
  • Update your information via your eSantaFe account.

To not participate in unauthorized employment

  • Whether it is on-campus employment, an internship on campus or off campus, paid or unpaid, ALL employment must be approved by International Student Services.
  • Do not begin employment until you have received prior approval from International Student Services.
  • Make an appointment to meet with International Student Services if you have questions about employment in the United States.

To be enrolled in an International Student Health and Medical Insurance program

  • Enroll in the Santa Fe College International Student Health Insurance program administered through Insurance for Students (IFS).
  • Visit insuranceforstudents.com/santafe to learn about the Santa Fe College International Student Health Insurance program and to enroll and make payment for the program.
  • Request approval from International Student Services (ISS) to participate in an alternate health and medical insurance program.

To maintain a valid passport

  • F1 Visa Students must maintain a valid, unexpired passport issued by the government of the student’s home country.
  • If you renew or update your passport, you must submit a copy to International Student Services within 10 days of your receipt of the new passport.

An F1 Visa student who fails to comply with the above-described requirements may be in violation of lawful F1 Student status. If you believe that you may be in violation of your F1 Student status, please contact International Student Services immediately to request a meeting to discuss your circumstances.

It is each student's responsibility to understand and to follow all U.S. Department of Homeland Security guidelines applicable to the F1 student visa. Please consult with International Student Services at any time that you have questions about maintaining lawful F1 Student status.