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International Students

Resources for currently enrolled F-1 international students.

Make yourself at home

We know you've come a long way to be here. At CCBC, it's our goal to make you feel welcome, safe and included during your stay in the U.S.

Visa and immigration support

The F-1 visa and immigration process can seem overwhelming, but IISS is here to help you navigate through it! Even if we don't offer a particular service, we will connect you with people who can.

Maintaining your F-1 visa status

Follow these federal regulations in order to maintain your legal F-1 status.

  • Have a valid passport at all times, unless you're otherwise exempt.
  • Attend CCBC full-time each semester (at least 12 credits/billable hours). You cannot drop or withdraw from these classes without affecting your visa.
  • Do not seek employment, unless you have received authorization from ISS counselor and USCIS. F-1 visa students are only eligible to work Part-Time and On-Campus.
  • Complete your academic program by the ending date on your I-20.
  • You change your name, address or program of study (we need to know within 10 days).
  • You plan to travel outside the U.S. with the intention to re-enter. You will need IISS to authorize your I-20.
  • You plan to transfer to another institution. We will need to release your previous I-20 record to your transfer school.
  • You decide to terminate your academic program for any reason. You will have 15 days to depart the U.S.
  • You need an extension on completing your academic program, based on your I-20 end date.
  • Transfer to a new school and obtain a new I-20 form.
  • Apply to change to another immigration status.
  • Apply for post-completion optional practical training 90 days prior to completion of your degree if eligible.
  • Depart from the U.S. within 60 days after completing your degree or program.

If you violate the terms and conditions of your visa, you may be able to apply for reinstatement as long as you apply within five months of the violation. Contact IISS for more information.

Account Privacy (FERPA)

CCBC abides by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law that protects privacy of student records, such as bills, schedules, transcripts, etc.

Parents, guardians and sponsors do not have the right to inspect or access a student's education or informational record without their authorization.

Contact International and Immigrant Student Services

CCBC Catonsville

CCBC Essex

  • Phone: 443.840.1005
  • Email: essexiss@ccbcmd.edu
  • Location:
    Student Services Center | room 120A
    7201 Rossville Boulevard
    Baltimore, MD 21237
    Fax: 443.840.2200