Medical Reduced Course Load

As an F-1 student, you may drop below full time enrollment if you obtain a doctor’s letter recommending the reduced course load for medical / mental health reasons. You must receive prior approval for this reduction in the minimum course load from the OIS. If you fail to obtain advance approval from the OIS and you remain in the U.S., you will be violating your F-1 immigration status.

Requirements / Limitations:

* Not more than 12 months total Medical reduced course load are allowed per degree level.

* Must have letter from U.S. licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or licensed clinical psychologist recommending that you take less than the minimum units required.

* Must have prior approval from OIS before withdrawing from classes

* Must take no less than 4 units if a masters student, 3 units if a Ph.D. student, or 6 units if an undergraduate student with a Medical Reduced Course Load. If your doctor believes you cannot handle these units, then you should apply for a Medical Leave of Absence.