Immigration Matters

As an F-1 visa holder studying at HPU, it is your responsibility to understand and comply with the terms of your immigration status. Immigration laws and regulations can be confusing, and this guide is not meant to be the final authority on matters relating to your immigration status, but a starting point to help you understand how to stay in lawful status and get the most of your opportunities afforded to you as a non-immigrant student.

A violation of immigration laws or regulations (for example, failing to maintain a full-time credit load or engaging in unauthorized employment) could jeopardize your F-1 status and legal stay in the U.S., as well as provide roadblocks and complications for employment or future U.S. visa requests.

Review this information carefully and contact your Designated School Official or the Office of Global Education if you have questions. HPU’s Designated School Officials are listed below. The Office of Global Education is located in Cottrell Hall.

Contents

1. Maintaining F-1 Status

2. Immigration Documents

3. Maintaining your SEVIS Record

4. Academic Requirements

5. Employment & Internship Policies

6. Travel Information

7. Dependents

Resources

• Study in the States
• Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
• F-1 Maintenance Quick Reference
• Guide to Obtaining a Social Security Number
• Guide to Obtaining On-Campus Employment
• Guide to Obtaining an NC Driver’s License
• OPT Application Checklist