International Student Services

If your passport expires, go to the consulate of your government in the U.S. to obtain a new one. Don’t let it expire. You must always have a valid passport. Plan ahead and apply at least 6 months prior to expiration. 

An F-1 Visa acts as a key that allows you to enter the U.S. Once in the country, it is not a problem if your Visa expires. However, if you leave the U.S. and try to re-enter, you will need a valid F-1 Visa. This means you must first apply for a new Visa at the U.S. embassy/consulate in your home country. It can take between 2 weeks to 3 months to process, so be prepared for an extended visit. 

You can get a California Driver’s License by first visiting the DMV online at www.dmv.ca.gov to obtain the latest California Driver Handbook, forms, and instructions. We recommend making an appointment to shorten the length of your visit.  

Send a copy of the RFE to [email protected] and we will provide you with any documentation required from CIAM. We recommend working with an immigration attorney for complicated RFEs.

F-1 students who have an active SEVIS record and have studied in the US for at least 1 year qualify for CPT starting their very first term at CIAM. If a student hasnot met the 1 year requirement with their SEVIS record, they will need to wait until the start of their 3rd term at CIAM to begin CPT.

You can take each INT class 3 times each for a total of 6 times. The average duration of the MBA program is 6 terms.

Please email [email protected] for personal advisement on the transfer release date of your F-1 SEVIS record.

Email [email protected] to learn if you can qualify for OPT at CIAM based on your visa status and history.

Email [email protected] to see if and how you can qualify for a medical reduced course load (MRCL). If approved, your F-1 status can remain valid while you are in the US.

Yes, if you have studied for at least 3 terms, then you qualify for an annual vacation. This is treated as a leave of absence (LOA). During a LOA, your F-1 SEVIS record will remain active. You can legally stay in the US or travel abroad as long as you return to the US in time for classes for the following term. Please email [email protected] for any questions regarding traveling.