Whether you just arrived in Nebraska or are a continuing student, it is important that you continue to comply with U.S. immigration regulations. The following tips will help ensure you stay in status as you begin the Fall semester.
Check-in
If you are a new student at UNL, please remember to check in with the International Student & Scholar Office (ISSO). This will fulfill your immigration requirements and allow you to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) or driver’s license, if eligible.
Full-time Enrollment
All international students on an F or J visa are required to enroll full-time each Fall and Spring semester.
- Undergraduate and Law Students – 12 credit hours
- Graduate Students – 9 credit hours
You may qualify for a reduced course load if it’s your final semester, you’re having academic difficulties in your first semester, are fully engaged in thesis or dissertation, or for medical reasons. If you believe that you fall into one of those categories, submit the Reduced Course Load form on our website.
Immigration regulations also require that you be in a minimum number of in-person courses:
- Undergraduate and Law Students – 9 credit hours
- Graduate Students – 6 credit hours
Employment
On-campus employment is allowed up to 20 hours a week during the semester, and more than 20 hours a week during official university breaks. For students on an F visa, no prior authorization is required. For J visa students, send your offer letter to isso@unl.edu so that we can authorize your employment. If this is your first job in the United States, you will need to obtain a Social Security Number after you obtain your job offer. Off-campus employment is not allowed unless you have obtained prior authorization. Learn more about off-campus employment options.
Travel
If you plan to travel, be sure to request a travel signature from ISSO before departure. Make an appointment with an Immigration Specialist if you have any complex travel issues, including travel on an expired visa.
Address Changes
Remember to update your address in MyRED if you move to a different residence. U.S. law requires that you report any address changes within 10 days of the change.