Is there financial aid for International Students on F1 Visas?

Modified on Tue, 23 May, 2023 at 4:47 PM

YES! All international students may apply for institutional financial aid during our regular application periods.


Learn more about our financial aid applications:


Seminary and Advanced Degree Students


Undergraduate Students


It is crucial to consult with our designated school official (DSO) at Southeastern to ensure that you fully understand and comply with all the requirements and obligations of your F1 visa. The DSO is responsible for providing guidance and support related to your immigration status as an international student.


Southeastern's DSO is Camille Doane, and she can be contacted at cdoane@sebts.edu.

Key Requirements for F1 Students

As an international student studying in the United States on an F1 visa, you are required to meet certain obligations and fulfill specific requirements. Here are the key requirements for international students on an F1 visa:

  1. Full-time enrollment: You must be enrolled as a full-time student at an approved academic institution in the United States. Full-time enrollment generally means taking a minimum number of credit hours or courses per semester or quarter, as determined by your institution.

  2. Valid program of study: You must pursue a valid program of study at an accredited U.S. institution. This can include academic programs, language training programs, or vocational programs.

  3. Non-immigrant intent: You must demonstrate that you have a non-immigrant intent, which means you intend to return to your home country upon completion of your studies. You should be able to show ties to your home country, such as family, property, or career prospects.

  4. Financial support: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to cover your educational and living expenses while studying in the United States. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, scholarships, grants, or financial sponsorships.

  5. Form I-20: Once you are accepted into an academic institution, they will issue you a Form I-20, which is a certificate of eligibility for non-immigrant student status. You need to have a valid and up-to-date Form I-20 throughout your stay in the United States.

  6. Maintain academic status: You are required to maintain your academic status by making satisfactory progress toward completing your program of study. This includes attending classes regularly, maintaining a good GPA, and following any specific requirements set by your institution.

  7. Health insurance: It is mandatory for F1 students to have health insurance coverage throughout their program at Southeastern. You will need to make arrangements for coverage during your time in the United States.

  8. Employment restrictions: F1 students have limited options for employment. You are generally allowed to work on-campus for a limited number of hours per week and may be eligible for practical training opportunities, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which provide temporary work authorization related to your field of study.

  9. Reporting obligations: You must report any changes in your address, contact information, or academic program to your designated school official (DSO) within a specific timeframe. It is important to stay in compliance with reporting requirements to maintain your legal status.

  10. Filing taxes: F1 students may be required to file federal and state taxes, depending on their income and the duration of their stay in the United States. Consult with a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for specific guidelines.

 

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