International Students (F1)
LSUA offers international students a broad spectrum of affordable undergraduate degrees in a robust academic environment that challenges students to excel in the classroom. While staying at LSUA, international students feel at home due to our southern hospitality. LSUA works with the central Louisiana community to help international students have an easy transition to the LSUA campus.
Prospective Students
Current Students
It is very important for international students to stay in lawful immigration status at all times. Falling out of status means losing eligibility for F-1 benefits, including OPT and employment authorization. In some cases, being out of status may result in removal proceedings (deportation). Immigration rules change frequently; it is students’ responsibility to read all emails from the Office of International Programs to stay informed about immigration regulations.
Maintaining Full-Time Enrollment
International students may not drop below a full course of study without prior advising from an academic advisor and International Student Coordinator.
The exception to the full-time enrollment requirement is when students are in their final semester of degree study at LSUA. In such a case students must officially file for graduation prior to enrolling part-time and the student’s graduation date is posted in the LSUA system.
Maintaining a Valid I-20 Form
The I-20 has an expiration date. If an I-20 is going to expire before a student complete the program of studies, student must apply for an extension at least two weeks prior to the expiration date.
An F-1 student who is unable to meet the program completion date on the I-20 may be granted an extension only if the student has continually maintained status and the delays were caused by medical reasons or compelling academic, such as changes of major.
Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable for program extensions.
If a student does not apply for an extension of his or her I-20 until after the program end date noted on the I-20, the student is out of status and must apply for reinstatement.
The International Student Association (ISA) of LSUA is a student organization open to international students and to those who desire to learn more about the international community and culture. The organization’s mission is to support and foster the international community on the LSUA campus. We strive to cultivate a sense of identity, community, and unity through campus outreach, greater-community involvement, and numerous other activities.
For more information, visit our Facebook page.
