F-1 regulations allow a student to have one semester of reduced course load due to academic difficulties. This opportunity is usually in the first couple terms of a program. The regulations spell out the specific reasons that can be cited.
- Initial difficulty with the English language or reading requirements,
- Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods,
- Improper course level placement.
If you feel that one of these exceptions applies to you, and that by dropping the specific course you will be enrolled in fewer than three course credits, the regulations REQUIRE that you APPLY for the Reduced Course Load BEFORE you actually drop the course (See related RCL Request Form for Academic Reasons [pdf]). Of course, you also need to coordinate this with the Dean of Students Office.
The regulations state further that you still have to be enrolled at least half time. For Pomona College that would be at least 1.5 course credits.
RCL for an academic difficulty can be authorized only once at the bachelor degree level.
Imminent failure in a course IS NOT an acceptable reason for an RCL.
FAQs
What if I fail a class?
Failing classes is an academic matter that is generally addressed by the Dean of Students. If you are permitted to continue to enroll in classes at Pomona, failing a class here and there will have no impact on your status. If your performance necessitates that you be suspended or even withdrawn from school, then your status will be impacted.
Can I drop a class if I am about to fail?
If you are enrolled in at least 4 credits and dropping the class results in you completing only 3 credits that semester, then you are okay. If by dropping a class, you drop below 3 credits, then you have a serious problem. If you are not able to quickly enroll in another subject to bring your total credits to at least 3, then you will be out of status and your SEVIS record must be terminated. Termination of your SEVIS record is an extremely serious matter that must be discussed with the ISA as soon as you think you might be faced with this decision.
What happens if my SEVIS record is terminated?
If your record is terminated, you are deemed to be out-of-status. It is recommended that you apply to USCIS for reinstatement to restore your status as soon as possible. The application for reinstatement requires payment of a fairly substantial fee and written explanation from you as to why this has happened. Additional consequences of having your record terminated is that you will not be permitted to work on campus or be authorized for Curricular Practical Training (an internship) until the matter is resolved.
Why is this really important? Because when you are out-of-status, you begin to accumulate "unlawful presence." The provisions of the law regarding unlawful presence (ulp), are that if a person accumulates 6 months of ulp, they are denied re-entry to the U.S. for 3 years. A person who accumulates a year of ulp is denied re-entry for 10 years.