Description

Federal regulations require students to demonstrate proof of sufficient funds for I-20 eligibility. 

Eligible non-immigrants holding other statuses may apply for a change to F-1 status. Those with J status who are subject to 212(e) two-year home country physical requirement may not change status in the U.S. unless a waiver has been granted. 

Learn More

F-1 students may enroll in classes at another U.S. school while maintaining active status at UT Tyler. With DSO and academic advisor approval, qualifying coursework completed at another institution may apply toward F-1 enrollment requirements. Note: at least half of the credits must be taken at UT Tyler.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) 

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an F-1 benefit which allows students to gain on-the-job experience with an employer in their field of study while earning academic credits toward their degree program. 

OIP will issue invitation letters for graduating UT Tyler students who wish to invite non-U.S.-based relatives to attend their commencement ceremony. These letters can be submitted as supporting documentation for a visitor visa application at a U.S. embassy.

F-1 students complete the I-765 when applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Off-Campus Work Authorization due to economic hardship. This form must be submitted to USCIS.

A STEM OPT student and their employer must obtain, complete and sign the Form I-983 before the student may apply for a STEM OPT extension. The STEM OPT student and their employer must work together to complete the Form I-983. 

For F-1 students who have experienced a qualifying life event causing economic hardship, off-campus employment is recommended by OIP and authorized by USCIS. Severe Economic Hardship-based employment does not have to be in the student’s field of study, but is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. 

Learn More

For courses listed as online that include a required on-campus component, this form is used to certify compliance with F-1 enrollment requirements. This form may be used for a maximum of one course per semester when an in-person section of the course is unavailable.

Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a 12-month work authorization available to F-1 students who have been enrolled full-time for at least two consecutive semesters and plan to seek employment in the United States in their field of study after graduation. 

Learn more

An I-20 program extension may be granted for compelling academic or medical reasons, such as a change of major or research topic, unexpected research problems, or a documented illness. [8 CFR § 214.2 (f) (7) (iii)]. Please send the form to your academic advisor's personal work email, not the general advising email.

F-1 students experiencing academic difficulties in their first semester may be eligible for a reduced course load. Please send the form to your academic advisor's personal work email, not the general advising email.

Learn More

F-1 students in their final semester who will complete all degree requirements with less than full-time  enrollment should complete this form. Please send the form to your academic advisor's personal work email, not the general advising email.

Learn More

A Medical Reduced Course Load permits F-1 students to reduce their course load below full-time (or, if necessary, not enroll in any courses) due to a student's temporary illness or medical condition. A maximum of 12 months of Medical Reduced Course Load can be authorized per degree level.

Learn More

F-1 students may fall out of status if they violate the conditions of their visa. A student who is out of status is no longer eligible for F-1 status benefits such as on-campus employment, CPT, and OPT. To regain F-1 status, students must apply for reinstatement or complete an exit/reentry using a new I-20.

Learn More

If you are a current degree-seeking F-1 student at UT Tyler, please submit this form to report a change to your address or phone number within 10 days of the change.

To initiate the transfer of the SEVIS record, F-1 students transferring from UT Tyler to another U.S. institution should complete this form and attach a letter of acceptance from the new institution. 

UT Tyler graduates with Department of Homeland Security-designated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) degrees may be eligible for the 24-Month STEM OPT Extension. 

Learn more

The University of Texas at Tyler requires all incoming international students and scholars who originate from countries that are considered to be at higher risk for tuberculosis (TB) disease (as defined by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention) to be screened for TB.

Learn More

The Tuition Assistance for Mexican Students (TAMS) award provides a waiver of the nonresident portion of a student's tuition bill. The TAMS award is not a cash award. To be eligible for the TAMS award, you must be a citizen and resident of Mexico who demonstrates financial need, among other requirements. Submit the TAMS application form and the needed supporting documents.

UT Tyler faculty-led programs are designed to encourage a variety of students to study abroad. These opportunities would not be possible without the dedication, passion and tireless effort of the faculty who lead these programs. Faculty are key to the sustainable success of study abroad at UT Tyler and have tremendous influence on a students learning and development.