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Center for Int'l Programs & Services (CIPS)

Information For International Students

Welcome to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University! We are extremely pleased that you have chosen to pursue your degree at ERAU, and want to assist you in your transition to your studies and the United States.

Please address any questions you may have about immigration status to the CIPS Office in Building 18, or call (928) 777-3774.

Important Information Concerning F-1 Student Status

Maintaining F-1 Student Status

All F-1 students are admitted to the United States for Duration of Status (D/S). To maintain your status you must:

  1. Enroll in, attend, and complete 12 credit hours (for undergraduate students) or nine hours (for graduate students) of coursework each term.
  2. Maintain a valid passport at least 6 months in advance of expiration.
  3. File a change of address with the university anytime your physical and/or mailing address changes.
  4. Depart the U.S. within 60 days after you have completed your degree program, or have a change of status or other benefit application on file.

Keep your I-20, your passport, and your I-94 card in a safe place at all times. If you are traveling within the U.S., it is wise to carry these documents with you.

It is the responsibility of the CIPS Office to keep a photocopy of your passport, I-20 form, F-1 Visa, and I-94 card in your file. This is done for your protection and for legal requirements. If you have not already done so, please bring these documents to the CIPS Office (building 18) for copying right away.

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Leaving the United States

If you plan to leave the United States at any point during your stay, you MUST have your I-20 form signed in the CIPS Office. Without a signature by a Designated School Official (DSO), you will not be allowed back into the U.S. upon your return.

Transferring Schools

If you will be transferring to another school, you must notify the Designated School Official (DSO) and the process will be explained to you. If you have pursued less than a full course of study, you are not eligible for the transfer procedure, but instead must apply for reinstatement of status.

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Insurance Requirements

You are required to have health insurance coverage while you are in the United States. The university charges you a fee each semester for coverage.

Student Employment

You are allowed to work ON CAMPUS while you are a student. To do this, you must have a job offer and obtain a Social Security Card. You may work up to 20 hours per week if you qualify. See the CIPS Office for assistance in obtaining the Social Security Card.

You may NOT work off campus, without specific permission from the Department of Homeland Security. Come to the CIPS Office for more information on this regulation.

For information about Optional Practical Training (OPT) and
Co-ops/Internships for International Students, please click here to download (pdf documents):

Criminal Activity

Engaging in any criminal activity will put your F-1 status in serious jeopardy. Be sure to ask questions at the CIPS Office if you are concerned about the legality of anything you are involved with.

International Student Association

The International Student Association is an organization devoted to serving the international population of ERAU. Please become involved and help make your experience here fun and exciting.

Other Questions

If you have any questions, or encounter any problems, please do not hesitate to come by the CIPS Office (18 B, Phone: (928) 777-3774, E-mail: luquejac@erau.edu). We are available to help you with whatever you may need and look forward to working with you.

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Here are some government links to give you more information on entering the US:

The US-VISIT Program

Immigration Info for Students