Maintain Your Status

Our international student advisors are here to help you maintain valid F-1 or J-1 student visa status, but it is ultimately your responsibility to comply with immigration regulations.

Helpful resources:

Report Changes to ISAO

Notify us immediately if any of the following change:

  • Your name
  • Your local address (also update in Pathway)
  • Your visa type
  • Your major or expected graduation date
  • Anything that may affect your visa or I-20/DS-2019, including taking a leave of absence, suspension, or dismissal from your department

Full-Time Enrollment Requirements

ISAO monitors enrollment. If you drop below the required credit hours at any point during the semester, we will send you two courtesy emails. If you do not respond or take action, we are required to terminate your I-20/DS-2019 for unauthorized drop below a full course load. You would then need to leave the United States immediately or begin the process for reinstatement.

Minimum credit hours

  • Bachelor's and English-only students: 12 credit hours every fall and spring semester (only 3 can be online)
  • Master's and Ph.D. students: 9 credit hours every fall and spring semester (only 3 can be online)

Reduced course load

If you cannot enroll full-time, you must submit an FTE form and select a category that applies to your situation. The reduced course load/FTE form is available in the ISAO Portal for current students. Access for new students is added at the start of each semester.

J-1 students should use the J-1 Student FTE Form (PDF).

Additional Resources

Many of the following requests can be submitted through the ISAO Portal. For requests that require a conversation with an advisor, email isao@umkc.edu.

Transfer to another school

To transfer, submit the following to ISAO:

  • A copy of your official admission letter from your new school
  • A transfer form from your new school (if they have one)
  • Your preferred date for releasing your records to your new school

If you are currently on OPT or STEM OPT, your work authorization will automatically end the day we release your SEVIS records to your new school. When your transfer has been processed, you will receive an email from your ISAO advisor.

Extend your I-20 or DS-2019

Submit the required information and supporting documents through the ISAO Portal.

For information about renewing your visa, review the Renewing Your Visa guide (PDF).

Change your status or apply for reinstatement

Email isao@umkc.edu to start the conversation about changing your visa status or applying for reinstatement to F-1 status.

Enroll at another school while at UMKC

Complete the Concurrent Enrollment Form (PDF).

Take a leave of absence

Email isao@umkc.edu to discuss taking a leave of absence as an F-1 or J-1 visa holder.

To return from a leave of absence, complete the Request for New Initial I-20 form (PDF).

Provide proof of sufficient funds

Complete the Affidavit of Support form (PDF).

Leave UMKC

Submit a Leaving UMKC Request through the ISAO Portal.

ISAO Portal