Understanding the immigration rules and keeping your immigration papers in order in a new country can be a challenge. To make the transition easier, the Center for International Education assists international students regarding visa, non-immigrant status, work authorization, travel instructions for entering or leaving the U.S., school transfers, extension of stay, change of non-immigrant status, reinstatement, Social Security, and any other procedural matters concerning international students.

HOW TO MAINTAIN F-1/J-1 STATUS

• Keep your passport valid at all times.
• Maintain full-time enrollment at all times.
• Keep your I-20/DS-2019 valid at all times.  Do not let it expire.
• Follow proper procedures for transfer, change of degree level, and program extension.  Consult with the Director of International Programs for help with these procedures.
• Do not work off-campus without INS authorization.  (You may work on-campus no more than 20 hours per week during the academic year.)
• Apply for a Social Security Card in person in Trenton as soon as you have a work offer on campus.  You will not get paid until you have received a Social Security Card.

International students in J-1 status are responsible for maintaining J-1 status in accordance with the rules set by the United States Information Agency and your Designated Program Sponsor.