Changing your major in college is a common occurrence for many students as they explore their interests and career goals. However, for international students on an F1 visa living in campus housing, this decision can have important implications on their visa status.
When you are admitted to a university as an international student on an F1 visa, you are required to maintain full time enrollment in a program of study that is consistent with your visa documentation. This means that if you decide to change your major, you must notify your designated school official (DSO) and update your Form I 20 to reflect the new program of study.
Changing your major can affect your F1 visa status in several ways. First, your DSO will need to determine if the new major is still considered a full time program of study. If it is not, you may need to take additional courses to maintain your full time status or risk falling out of compliance with your visa requirements.
Additionally, changing your major could impact your eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) opportunities. These programs allow international students to gain work experience in their field of study, but eligibility is often tied to your major. If you switch majors, you may need to reapply for these opportunities or may no longer be eligible.
For international students living in campus housing, changing your major could also affect your housing situation. Some universities require students to live in specific housing based on their major or program of study. If you change your major, you may need to move to a different residence hall or housing option that is more suitable for your new program.
Overall, it is important for international students on an F1 visa to carefully consider the implications of changing their major before making a decision. Consulting with your DSO and understanding how the change will affect your visa status, practical training opportunities, and housing situation can help ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential issues with your F1 visa compliance.