Under Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulations, designated school officials (DSOs) must issue Forms I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status,” only when students have met all standards for admission for their listed program.

All F-1 students must enroll in a full course of study. However, if an enrolled F-1 student experiences academic difficulties due to language limitations, there are a few scenarios when a DSO may register that F-1 student in both academic classes and a part-time Intensive English Program (IEP).

Below are the scenarios and how to handle each:

Reduced Course Load

An F-1 student who unexpectedly experiences initial language difficulties may be granted a reduced course load for one session. The reduced course load must include at least six credit hours in the academic program for the initial session.

Under a reduced course load, the F-1 student would be able to enroll in an IEP incident to status with no impact on their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record.

Change of Education Level

An F-1 student experiencing language difficulties may also be processed for a change of education level and issued a new Form I-20 for full-time enrollment in an IEP. If capable, the student may also enroll in part-time academic study incident to status.

Full-time Academic Program and Part-time IEP

An F-1 student may remain in their academic program full time and enroll in an IEP part time, incident to status. This option is typically for students who are experiencing only minimal language limitations.

SEVP-certified Pathway Program

An F-1 student may be processed for a change of education level and issued a new Form I-20 for full-time enrollment in a SEVP-certified pathway program. The pathway program combines language learning and academic coursework.

Have questions about registering students for an academic program and an IEP? Visit the SEVIS Help Hub or contact the SEVP Response Center for more information.