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Maintaining your legal status and following regulations in the United States is your responsibility as an international student. However, International Student Engagement is available to educate, advise and answer any questions related to F-1 immigration requirements. Visa regulations are constantly changing, so be proactive in seeking relevant information.

Maintaining F-1 Status Immigration status is your legal permission to remain in the United States under specific conditions related to certain visa categories. Most international students at 51¹ÙÍø hold F-1 student status. 

Travel International travel requires advance planning and careful attention to details. Most importantly, make sure you have all the required documents with you in order to re-enter the United States.

Employment International students are permitted to work in the United States, only under firm immigration regulations. Any unauthorized employment violates your legal status and compromises your ability to remain in or return to the United States.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) CPT is an employment authorization available to F-1 students for work experience that is considered an integral part of a student's curriculum or academic program. Learn more about the steps for gaining CPT authorization.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) OPT is an employment authorization most students use to gain work experience in their field of study after graduation. Learn more about the steps for gaining and maintaining OPT authorization.

Taxes and Social Security Every person in the United States who earns money (from a job, from non-qualified scholarship, etc.) must pay income tax and obtain Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN facilitates the reporting of your wages to the government and determines eligibility for Social Security benefits.  

Driver's License and State ID International students should obtain a North Carolina state driver's license or state ID card as government identification while studying at 51¹ÙÍø.