  {"id":874,"date":"2023-06-29T15:31:26","date_gmt":"2023-06-29T19:31:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/?page_id=874"},"modified":"2025-08-07T13:03:39","modified_gmt":"2025-08-07T17:03:39","slug":"full-course-of-study-requirement","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/international-students\/full-course-of-study-requirement\/","title":{"rendered":"Full Course of Study Requirement"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Maintaining full-time enrollment is one of the most important responsibilities for F-1 international students. Failure to enroll full-time during a required academic term may result in the termination of your SEVIS record and the loss of your legal status in the U.S.<\/p>\n<h3><b>Full-Time Enrollment<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At Âé¶¹´«Ã½AVPeter\u2019s University, full-time enrollment is defined as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Undergraduate Students: 12 credits or more during both fall and spring semesters<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Graduate Students in Trimester-Based Programs: 6 credits or more per trimester<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Graduate Students in Semester-Based Programs: 9 credits or more per semester<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Dropping below these credit minimums without prior authorization is a violation of F-1 visa regulations.<\/p>\n<h3>Annual Vacation &amp; Summer Break<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The summer term is considered optional at Âé¶¹´«Ã½AVPeter\u2019s University. Unless otherwise specified by your program:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You are not required to enroll full-time during summer.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may choose to enroll full-time or part-time, in in-person or online courses.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Important Notes:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If summer is your final term, you must enroll in at least one in-person course.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If only one course remains to complete your program, that course must be taken in person\u2014not online.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are starting your program in summer, you must enroll full-time, and may count only one online class (3 credits) toward that full-time requirement.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Online\/Distance Education Limits<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During required academic terms (Fall and Spring for undergraduate students. Fall, Spring, and Winter for graduate students):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">F-1 students may count only one online\/distance education course (maximum of 3 credits) toward their full-time enrollment requirement.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An online or distance course is defined as one that does not require your physical presence for any component such as lectures, exams, or participation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Reduced Course Load (RCL)<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are very limited situations where an F-1 student may be authorized to take less than a full course of study. <a href=\"https:\/\/isss.saintpeters.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">This is called a Reduced Course Load (RCL)<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><b>Important:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You must receive written authorization from the Center for Global Learning (CGL) <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">before<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reducing your course load. Otherwise, your SEVIS record may be terminated for failure to maintain status.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>RCL can be approved for:<\/p>\n<div id=\"accordions-1296\" class=\"accordions-1296 accordions\" data-accordions={&quot;lazyLoad&quot;:true,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;1296&quot;,&quot;event&quot;:&quot;click&quot;,&quot;collapsible&quot;:&quot;true&quot;,&quot;heightStyle&quot;:&quot;content&quot;,&quot;animateStyle&quot;:&quot;swing&quot;,&quot;animateDelay&quot;:1000,&quot;navigation&quot;:true,&quot;active&quot;:999,&quot;expandedOther&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}>\r\n                <div id=\"accordions-lazy-1296\" class=\"accordions-lazy\" accordionsId=\"1296\">\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n\r\n    <div class=\"items\"  style=\"display:none\" >\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1296\" itemcount=\"0\"  header_id=\"header-1754585449761\" id=\"header-1754585449761\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585449761 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Academic Difficulties\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585449761\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585449761\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Academic Difficulties<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585449761 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">RCL due to academic challenges may be approved in the following situations:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initial difficulty with English language or reading requirements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span> <i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(Only available during your first semester\/trimester at SPU if you have no prior U.S. educational experience)<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Improper course level placement<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conditions:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">May be used only once per program level<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student must remain enrolled in at least half the full-time requirement (e.g., 6 credits for undergraduates)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student must return to full-time enrollment in the next required term<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1296\" itemcount=\"1\"  header_id=\"header-1754585450535\" id=\"header-1754585450535\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585450535 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Medical Conditions\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585450535\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585450535\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Medical Conditions<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585450535 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">F-1 students who are experiencing temporary medical conditions may be eligible for a reduced course load (RCL) or, in some cases, no course load at all. To request this accommodation, students must submit medical documentation to the Center for Global Learning (CGL).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The documentation must be issued by one of the following licensed professionals:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical Doctor (M.D.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psychiatrist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Licensed Psychologist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Licensed Clinical Psychologist<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The documentation will be reviewed and kept on file in accordance with federal regulations. Please note:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Authorization for reduced course load due to medical reasons is limited to a total of 12 months per academic program level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If a student has already used the full 12-month allowance, they are not eligible for additional medical RCL until progressing to a new program level (e.g., from undergraduate to graduate studies).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Note:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Letters from nurse practitioners, counselors, social workers, or chiropractors are not acceptable per immigration regulations.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1296\" itemcount=\"2\"  header_id=\"header-1754585451155\" id=\"header-1754585451155\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585451155 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Final Semester of Study\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585451155\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585451155\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Final Semester of Study<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585451155 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are in your last term and do not need a full course load to graduate, you may be authorized to take only the remaining required courses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Conditions:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If only one course remains, it must be taken in person.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You must not register for unnecessary elective courses to appear full-time.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n            <\/div>\n<h3>How to Apply for a Reduced Course Load (RCL)<\/h3>\n<div id=\"accordions-1298\" class=\"accordions-1298 accordions\" data-accordions={&quot;lazyLoad&quot;:true,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;1298&quot;,&quot;event&quot;:&quot;click&quot;,&quot;collapsible&quot;:&quot;true&quot;,&quot;heightStyle&quot;:&quot;content&quot;,&quot;animateStyle&quot;:&quot;swing&quot;,&quot;animateDelay&quot;:1000,&quot;navigation&quot;:true,&quot;active&quot;:999,&quot;expandedOther&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}>\r\n                <div id=\"accordions-lazy-1298\" class=\"accordions-lazy\" accordionsId=\"1298\">\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n\r\n    <div class=\"items\"  style=\"display:none\" >\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1298\" itemcount=\"0\"  header_id=\"header-1754585623024\" id=\"header-1754585623024\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585623024 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Step 1: Determine Eligibility\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585623024\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585623024\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Step 1: Determine Eligibility<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585623024 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review the eligibility requirements for the type of RCL you are requesting:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Academic Difficulties:<\/strong> May include initial difficulty with the English language, reading requirements, unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods, or improper course placement.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Medical Condition:<\/strong> Must be supported by documentation from a U.S.-licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or licensed clinical psychologist.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Final Semester:<\/strong> You are in your last academic term and need fewer courses to graduate.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re unsure which category applies to you, contact the Center for Global Learning (CGL) before submitting your request.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1298\" itemcount=\"1\"  header_id=\"header-1754585623462\" id=\"header-1754585623462\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585623462 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585623462\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585623462\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585623462 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the type of RCL, gather required documents:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Academic Difficulty:<\/strong> Obtain a letter from your academic advisor documenting your situation. You may be asked to meet with a DSO for additional clarification.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Medical Condition:<\/strong> Obtain a signed letter on official letterhead from an eligible medical professional recommending a reduced course load for the specific term. (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1tc_lLamkdwSpCp0cD8DIhdF7QSJrR9We\/view?usp=drive_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sample Letter<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Final Semester:<\/strong> Verify with your academic advisor or degree audit that you are in your final semester.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1298\" itemcount=\"2\"  header_id=\"header-1754585623857\" id=\"header-1754585623857\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585623857 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Step 3: Submit the RCL Request in the International Student Portal\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585623857\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585623857\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Step 3: Submit the RCL Request in the International Student Portal<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585623857 \">\r\n                <ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/isss.saintpeters.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Log in to the International Student Portal<\/a> using your Âé¶¹´«Ã½AVPeter\u2019s credentials.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Navigate to the Student Request Center and then \"Reduced Course Load Request\".<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete the form by selecting the appropriate RCL type and uploading any required documentation. NOTE: Students applying for RCL due to academic reasons or last semester\/trimer of studies must enter their academic advisor as the approver. Students applying for RCL due to medical reasons must enter the Dean of their school as the approver.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit the request for review.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1298\" itemcount=\"3\"  header_id=\"header-1754585624272\" id=\"header-1754585624272\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585624272 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Step 4: Wait for DSO Review and Decision\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585624272\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585624272\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Step 4: Wait for DSO Review and Decision<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585624272 \">\r\n                <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A DSO will review your request and notify you via the portal and email once a decision has been made.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If approved, your SEVIS record will be updated and you will be issued an updated I-20 reflecting the RCL authorization.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Do not drop classes or reduce your course load until your request has been approved.<\/strong><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n            <\/div>\n<p><strong>Additional Notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">RCL must be authorized in advance\u2014retroactive requests are not permitted.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Academic difficulty RCL is limited to one semester per program level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical RCL is limited to an aggregate of 12 months per program level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Final semester RCL requires that all remaining courses be in-person, if only one class remains.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Processing Time<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can submit your request for RCL to the CGL as early as 30 days prior to the start of the academic term.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your application will be reviewed within 5 business days.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\"><div id=\"accordions-1300\" class=\"accordions-1300 accordions\" data-accordions={&quot;lazyLoad&quot;:true,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;1300&quot;,&quot;event&quot;:&quot;click&quot;,&quot;collapsible&quot;:&quot;true&quot;,&quot;heightStyle&quot;:&quot;content&quot;,&quot;animateStyle&quot;:&quot;swing&quot;,&quot;animateDelay&quot;:1000,&quot;navigation&quot;:true,&quot;active&quot;:999,&quot;expandedOther&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}>\r\n                <div id=\"accordions-lazy-1300\" class=\"accordions-lazy\" accordionsId=\"1300\">\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n\r\n    <div class=\"items\"  style=\"display:none\" >\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"0\"  header_id=\"header-1754585901014\" id=\"header-1754585901014\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585901014 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"What happens if I drop below full-time without getting RCL approval?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585901014\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585901014\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">What happens if I drop below full-time without getting RCL approval?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585901014 \">\r\n                <p>If you drop below full-time without prior written authorization from the Center for Global Learning (CGL), your SEVIS record will be terminated, and you will fall out of status. This could affect your ability to stay in or return to the U.S.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"1\"  header_id=\"header-1754585901385\" id=\"header-1754585901385\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585901385 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Can I take all online classes during the semester?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585901385\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585901385\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Can I take all online classes during the semester?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585901385 \">\r\n                <p>No. During required semesters, F-1 students can count only one online course or 3 credits toward the full-time enrollment requirement. The rest must be in-person or hybrid with required physical attendance.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"2\"  header_id=\"header-1754585901745\" id=\"header-1754585901745\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585901745 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Do I need to be full-time in the summer?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585901745\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585901745\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Do I need to be full-time in the summer?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585901745 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, the summer term is optional unless:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it is your first semester (then full-time is required), or<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">it is your final semester (then you must be enrolled in at least one in-person course).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"3\"  header_id=\"header-1754585902114\" id=\"header-1754585902114\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585902114 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"What if I only need one class to graduate?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585902114\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585902114\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">What if I only need one class to graduate?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585902114 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you're in your final term and need only one course to complete your program, that course must be in-person. It cannot be taken online\u2014even if it\u2019s more convenient.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"4\"  header_id=\"header-1754585902476\" id=\"header-1754585902476\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585902476 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"How often can I request an RCL for academic difficulties?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585902476\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585902476\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">How often can I request an RCL for academic difficulties?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585902476 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may be approved for an RCL for academic difficulty only once per academic program level (e.g., once during undergraduate, once during graduate).<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"5\"  header_id=\"header-1754585902848\" id=\"header-1754585902848\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585902848 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Can I work on-campus or use CPT while on an RCL?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585902848\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585902848\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Can I work on-campus or use CPT while on an RCL?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585902848 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It depends on the type of RCL:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Academic Difficulty or Final Semester: On-campus employment and CPT may still be allowed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical Condition: You may not be eligible for employment or CPT, depending on the severity of your condition and your enrollment status. Speak with a DSO before making any decisions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"6\"  header_id=\"header-1754585903230\" id=\"header-1754585903230\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585903230 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"What type of doctor can provide a medical letter for an RCL?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585903230\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585903230\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">What type of doctor can provide a medical letter for an RCL?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585903230 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only the following U.S.-licensed professionals can provide documentation:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical Doctor (M.D.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psychiatrist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Licensed Psychologist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Licensed Clinical Psychologist<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Letters from nurse practitioners, counselors, or social workers cannot be accepted.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"7\"  header_id=\"header-1754585903590\" id=\"header-1754585903590\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585903590 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"How do I know if I\u2019m in a semester-based or trimester-based program?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585903590\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585903590\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">How do I know if I\u2019m in a semester-based or trimester-based program?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585903590 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Graduate programs at Âé¶¹´«Ã½AVPeter\u2019s University may follow different academic calendars. Check with your academic advisor or department to confirm your program structure.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"8\"  header_id=\"header-1754585903961\" id=\"header-1754585903961\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585903961 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"When should I submit my RCL request?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585903961\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585903961\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">When should I submit my RCL request?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585903961 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You should submit your RCL request at least 2\u20133 weeks before the start of the semester or as soon as you become aware of the need. Do not drop below full-time until your request is officially approved.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    \r\n            <div post_id=\"1300\" itemcount=\"9\"  header_id=\"header-1754585904310\" id=\"header-1754585904310\" style=\"\" class=\"accordions-head head1754585904310 border-none\" toggle-text=\"\" main-text=\"Where do I submit my RCL request?\">\r\n                                    <span id=\"accordion-icons-1754585904310\" class=\"accordion-icons\">\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-active accordion-plus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                        <span class=\"accordion-icon-inactive accordion-minus\"><i class=\"fas fa-chevron-right\"><\/i><\/span>\r\n                    <\/span>\r\n                    <span id=\"header-text-1754585904310\" class=\"accordions-head-title\">Where do I submit my RCL request?<\/span>\r\n                            <\/div>\r\n            <div class=\"accordion-content content1754585904310 \">\r\n                <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All RCL requests must be submitted through the International Student Portal. Log in using your SPU credentials and select the \u201cReduced Course Load Request\u201d form under Student Services.<\/span><\/p>\n            <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n            <\/div><\/p>\n<h3>Contact Us<\/h3>\n<p>Center for Global Learning (CGL)<br \/>\nAddress:<em>\u00a0<\/em>2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Lee House<br \/>\nJersey City, NJ 07306<br \/>\nPhone:<em>\u00a0<\/em>201-761-7190 Email:<em>\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"mailto:iss@saintperters.edu\">iss@saintperters.edu<\/a><br \/>\nAppointment Links:\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/CGLappt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/bit.ly\/CGLappt<\/a>\u00a0 OR\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/CGLappt2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/bit.ly\/CGLappt2<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Hours of Operation<\/strong><br \/>\nMonday \u2013 Friday: 9am \u2013 5pm<br \/>\n<strong><em>*The CGL is closed on weekends and most national holidays.*<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Maintaining full-time enrollment is one of the most important responsibilities for F-1 international students. Failure to enroll full-time during a required academic term may result in the termination of your SEVIS record and the loss of your legal status in the U.S. Full-Time Enrollment At Âé¶¹´«Ã½AVPeter\u2019s University, full-time enrollment is defined as: Undergraduate Students: [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1291,"featured_media":0,"parent":258,"menu_order":5,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-874","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/874","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1291"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=874"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/874\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1303,"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/874\/revisions\/1303"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/258"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.saintpeters.edu\/global-learning\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=874"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}