International Students

In the immigration context, maintaining status means following the government's rules for your visa category. Failure to maintain F-1 status is likely to result in the termination of your record and immediate loss of all F-1 benefits.

Your primary objective as an F-1 student is to study. If you are not studying as required, you cannot stay in F-1 status.

How Do I Maintain Status?

1. Keep a Valid Form I-20
   Your I-20 determines the length of your stay. If you will not finish your program by the listed end date, request an extension BEFORE the expiration date.
2. Enroll in a Full Course of Study
   You must maintain full-time enrollment AT ALL TIMES during the semester. Do not drop or withdraw courses without consulting with an advisor as this may put you under a full course load. Border Commuter students must maintain a minimum of 6 credits at all times.
3. Report Your Arrival
   You must be physically present on campus at the start of the semester. You must report your arrival to the International Student Office.
4. Distance Learning Limitations
   F-1 students are limited to 1 distance learning course towards their full-time enrollment requirement. This includes Online, Synchronous, and Asynchronous courses.
5. NEVER Work Without Prior Authorization
   If you choose to work without authorization, your I-20 will be terminated and you will be forced to leave the United States immediately.
6. Maintain an Unexpired Passport
   Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your re-entry date into the United States.
7. Remain in Good Academic Standing
   Make normal progress towards your degree and follow academic integrity rules. Being suspended or expelled will have significant implications on your status.

1. Complete the International Student Application.
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $75.
3. Student athletes must provide a student health record.
4. Provide a copy of your current passport.
5. Provide Evidence of Financial Ability – Prospective F-1 students must have the financial resources to live and study in the United States. This includes being able to cover the cost of tuition, books, living expenses and travel. Please contact international@cochise.edu or (520) 417-4050 to obtain the appropriate Financial Guarantee Form.
6. If you plan to live on campus, please fill out the Housing application.
7. Transfer students only: If you are attending another school on an F-1 visa, you may transfer to Cochise College after you complete your current semester. Notify the international student advisor at your current school to have your SEVIS record transferred to Cochise College.

Students living near the U.S.-Mexico border can study in the United States and attend Cochise College as a border commuter student on a part-time or full-time basis. Government regulations require that you pursue a degree program or enroll for English as a Second Language classes. To apply, follow the admissions checklist above.

In order to apply for an F-1 Student visa, you will need an I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status). This form confirms acceptance into a U.S. institution for a full course of study and proof of sufficient funds. When your Admissions process is complete, your I-20 form will be sent to you via email, if you are local you may pick it up at the Douglas Campus International Student Office.

• International students must maintain full-time student status.
• International students should complete all paperwork with Cochise College at least three months to the start of the semester for which they seek admission.
• Those interested in studying aviation or nursing should contact those departments for more specific admissions requirements.
  For further information, please contact international@cochise.edu or (520) 417-4050.

International students should be financially prepared to pay tuition and other personal expenses while they are at Cochise College. F-1 full-time international students are permitted to work part time on campus; however, student employment is not guaranteed.