F1 Student Forms, Petitions, and Requests

While studying in the United States, it is important to maintain your F1 student status. Your Designated School Official (DSO) -- also known as your International Student Advisor -- should be the first person you talk with if you have questions regarding the legal requirements of your stay in the United States.

The information below is designed to answer many of the most frequently asked questions.

Note: Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, we are providing all services online. Please submit all forms, petitions, and requests to @email.

Petitions

Reduced Course Load (RCL) Petitions

F1 students may petition to enroll in less than 12 units if they are in their final semester and need less than a full course of study to graduate or if they have authorization from a medical professional.

• Final Semester etitions require DSO approval. Petitions must be submitted BEFORE the start of the semester. Petitions must be signed by an academic counselor and have a comprehensive student education plan (CSEP) attached.
• Medical Authorization Petitions require DSO approval. Petitions must be submitted within 10 days of medical release. Petitions must be signed by a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or licensed clinical psychologist.

Concurrent Enrollment Petition

F1 students may petition to enroll in classes at another college/university while maintaining full-time or part-time status at West Los Angeles College.

• Concurrent Enrollment Petitions require DSO approval. Petitions must be submitted at least 5 business days before the add deadline.

Coursework completed at other colleges/universities without prior approval will not be applied toward the student's full-time requirement.

Extend I-20 Petition

F1 students may petition to extend their I-20 program end date if they have compelling academic or medical reasons for the delay in program completion.

• Extend I-20 Petitions require DSO approval. Petitions must be submitted at least 10 business days before the program end date.

Employment/OPT

On-Campus Employment

F1 students may not work off-campus during their first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. Employment opportunities are limited and should not be considered a source of income to meet minimum financial obligations. Students must obtain employment on their own by contacting a WLAC department.

On-Campus Employment Process

Off-Campus Employment

After the first academic year, F1 students may engage in certain types of off-campus employment. Employment must be related to the student's intended area of study and must be authorized by a DSO and USCIS prior to starting any work.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) Process
  • Pre-Completion OPT - Work part-time (20 hours or less per week) while school is in session.
  • Post-Completion OPT - Work full-time (40 hours or less per week) after completing your studies.
  • OPT approved students must create an SEVP Portal Account to meet their regulatory reporting requirements. Students are responsible for reporting changes to their employment, address, and phone number.
• Economic Hardship Process