The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), the government entity that oversees the F-1 program, ended their COVID-19 flexibilities on May 11, 2023. However, active F-1 students may continue following the COVID-19 flexibilities through summer 2023. In other words: 

Current Students 

• Most continuing F-1 students who enroll during summer 2023 will not have immigration limits for online class enrollment. Students planning to graduate in August 2023 must comply with full-time enrollment requirements, including distance education limits. 
• New F-1 students who are starting their program in summer 2023 will only be able to use one online course towards their full-time enrollment requirements.  

Starting in Fall 2023:  

• All F-1 students will only be able to use one online course towards their full-time enrollment requirements. 
• Students will no longer be able to maintain F-1 status while enrolling outside the U.S. unless they are a part of an approved study, research, or internship abroad program 

OPT/STEM OPT Students

For more information, please read these additional resources: 

• SEVP Broadcast Message 2304-04: Termination of SEVP COVID-19 Flexibilities 
• Frequently Asked Questions for SEVP Stakeholders Post-COVID-19 
• NAFSA SEVP COVID-19 Guidance Sources