F-1 International Student Guides

Registration & Academic Information

• Registration

  *COVID-19 Update:  Spring 2023 courses will be primarily in-person. All COVID-19 enrollment exceptions have expired for OCC students. Review the "Maintaining Your F-1 Status" Guides below for details.
  

  • When can I register for classes? Refer to the Registration Periods page.
  • Holds on your account? Clear them at least 2-3 business days before your registration period. Common holds:
    
    • Medical insurance: purchase at www.jcbins.com 
    • Orientation: contact the GEC for assistance or make-up orientation information
  • You must take classes that begin at the beginning of the spring and fall term. You must complete at least 1 sixteen week long class every fall and spring semester. Students are not allowed to only register in half term or 8 week long classes. Sixteen week long classes are the norm. Eight week long classes cover as much material and so move at twice the rate of a normal class.
  • Thinking of dropping a class? Remember, as an international students you must be registered in, and complete a minimum of 12 units each semester* and at least 9 of those 12 must be taught as on campus classes.
    
    • (*Fall and Spring semesters only. Summer is not mandatory, unless it is your first semester. If Summer is your first semester, be sure to enroll in minimum of 6 units)
  • If you think you will fall below 12 units, contact the Global Engagement Center to meet with an F-1 Student Advisor before dropping
  • For other information on dropping a class, refer to the Dropping Classes page
    • It is each students' responsibility to be aware of drop deadlines, including last day to drop without a refund, without a 'W', and with a 'W'.  There are no exceptions for refunds if you drop past the deadline.
  • What is a waitlist? Are you waitlisted for a class? Visit the Waitlist Information page to find out detailed information.
• Important Dates

  ​If you have any questions regarding any of the below dates, refer to the Important Dates page.

  • Non-Payment Drop deadline
  • Last day to drop a class with a full refund
  • Last day to drop a class without a "W"
  • Deadline to select Pass/No Pass grading option
  • Last day to drop with a "W"
  • Find out these dates on Important Dates or you can refer to your Webschedule bill on your MyCoast for the course specific dates

  *Please note, each student is responsible for being aware of deadlines. There will be no exceptions made for courses dropped after the refund deadline or the drop without a "W" deadline.  View all important dates on the Important Dates page or on your Student Class Program (Web Schedule Bill). 

• Paying Your Tuition

  ​You can pay for your tuition online through MyCoast. Below are some useful links with important information on enrollment fees, when to pay your tuition and refund information.

  • Enrollment Fees
  • Non-Payment Drop Policy
  • Refunds
  • PayMyTuition

  The Coast Community College District has partnered with PayMyTuition for international tuition payments.  With PayMyTuition, you can make your tuition payments from any bank, in any country, in any currency at better than bank exchange rates.  PayMyTuition is fast, simple and cost effective (with a rate guarantee).
• Counseling Appointments/Academic Questions

  ​If you have questions about transfer requirements, graduation requirements, and any other academic related questions, schedule an appointment with an International Student Academic Counselor.  Appointments are published every Thursdays for the following week.

  Here are other useful resources:

  • Waitlist Information
  • Pass/No Pass Grading Options
  • Repeating a Course: Sub-Standard Grades
• Ordering Transcripts or Student Verification
  Visit the transcript page to order your official transcripts. 
  

  • If you are a former student without access to MyCoast, scroll down to the bottom the page for instructions for "Former Students"
  • If you need a verification of your student status, you can complete Verification Letter Request form. A allow 3-5 business days for processing.
• How to Apply for Graduation
  Ggraduation is not automatic! If you are seeking an Associate in Arts Degree, Associate of Science Degree, AAT, AST or a Certificate of Achievement, you must submit a petition for graduation at the beginning of the last semester in which you will be completing the requirements for graduation. 
  

  1. Visit the OCC Graduation Page for more information
  2. Degrees are verified and sent by mail 4-7 months after completion of coursework. 
  3. You can contact the graduation office at (714) 432-5581 to check the status of your degree.

Maintaining Your F-1 Status

• How do I maintain valid F-1 status?

  There are few important rules you must follow to maintain valid F-1 student status. It is your responsibility to follow these rules:

  COVID-19 Updates 

  All COVID-19 updates are posted on the International Student COVID-19 FAQ. Review it carefully for valuable information about maintaining status including travel requirements, vaccines, and more. Spring 2023, all COVID-19 enrollment exceptions will EXPIRE at OCC

   

  Maintain full-time enrollment

  • Enroll in 16 week long classes every fall and spring semester. You may not take only 8 week long classes.
  • Complete a minimum of 12 units during each Fall and Spring semester. At least 9 of your minimum 12 units must be taught on campus. Three units of online classes can be counted towards your minimum 12 units. Hybrid classes with a consistent on campus component count as on campus.
    
    • If your first term at OCC is summer, you must complete at least 6 units (A maximum of 3 of your 6 units may be taught online. Subsequent summer enrollment is optional.
  • You can take classes at an other school to complete the 12 unit requirement in a term but the majority of your units must be taken at the school that holds your I-20/SEVIS record. See the Concurrent Enrollment section for more details.
  • Students are allowed to count 3 units of classes taken in Intersession as part of their 12 unit minimum in spring semester. (for example 3 intersession units, and 9 Spring semester units) the other rules regarding online and concurrent still apply.

   

  Online Units

  • You must complete 12 units every fall and spring semester (6 if summer is your first term at OCC)
  • You must take at least 9 units of in-person instruction courses.
  • Only 3 of the online units can be counted towards the minimum of 12 units for full-time enrollment 
  • Hybrid classes with a consistent on campus component count as on campus.
  • If you are a new student starting in the summer, only 3 units out of 6 may be online.

   

  Maintain Good Academic Standing

  • Maintain a 2.0 GPA or better to avoid academic probation or even dismissal from OCC.  You may be placed on academic probation if your overall GPA falls below 2.0.
  • If you have any questions or concerns about your GPA, make an appointment to see the international academic counselor.

   

  Follow All Other Federal and State Laws

  • Working in the U.S. without authorization is PROHIBITED.  See "Working in the U.S." section for information on ways you can receive authorization to work in the U.S.
• Reduced Course Load (RCL) – Taking Less than 12 units

  In very limited situations, you may be permitted to take less than 12 units. See an F-1 advisor BEFORE dropping below 12 units if you think any of the cases below apply to you.  

  Do NOT drop below 12 units until you have met with an F-1 advisor and been authorized for RCL.

   

  Final Semester before graduation or transfer

  If you have less than 12 units to complete in your last semester to meet graduation/transfer requirements, you may be eligible for Last Semester RCL. 

  Make an appointment with the International Academic Counselor for authorization.

  We recommend you discuss this option with your counselor before starting your last semester.

   

  Academic Difficulties

  If this is your first semester attending a U.S. college and you are struggling in classes, you may be eligible for a RCL. See an F-1 Advisor to determine if you are eligible. 

  Not all students will be eligible and you must be approved BEFORE dropping below 12 units.

   

  Medical Authorization

  If you are being medically treated by a doctor (M.D. or D.O. or Licensed Clinical Psychologist) for a medical or mental health condition that prevents you from attending classes or requires that you have less than full time course load, you may be eligible for Medical Reduced Course Load.  Complete the top portion of this Medical Reduced Course Load Form (PDF) before submitting it to your medical provider to complete.

  The completed recommendation must be submitted to our office directly by your provider to be considered valid and must specify the semester and the number of units recommended.

• Concurrent Enrollment – Taking a class at another school

  Important Rules

  If you take classes at another school, you can count these towards the required 12 units total for full time enrollment. 

  • At least 7 units must be taken at OCC
  • At least one class must be a 16-week OCC class
  • Only 3 online units may count towards full-time enrollment. At least 9 units must be taught on a campus. 
  • ESL/ENG Courses MUST be taken at OCC
  • Courses taken at another institution may not meet OCC prerequisites, graduation and/or transfer requirements
  • Approval is not required, but we encourage you to meet an International Academic Counselor to review your selection.

  The 5 things to know about registration video contains information on concurrent enrollment. 

  Instructions for Concurrent Enrollment: 

  1. For classes at GWC or CCC, simply log into your MyCoast and enroll, no application necessary
  2. For classes outside of the Coast Community College District, apply (as a concurrent student) to the school you plan to enroll in and follow their instructions to enroll in the course(s) you want
  3. If approval is required to enroll, please email occinternational@cccd.edu, include the following information:
     • Name of school for concurrent enrollment
     • Course name, course number, and units
     • Semester of enrollment
  4. Submit proof of enrollment by email to verify you are enrolled in 12 units and maintaining status (i.e. unofficial transcript or web schedule bill)
  5. Once you complete the class, submit proof of your final grade(s) in by email
  6. Submit official transcripts to OCC's enrollment Center if you would like to transfer units to OCC.
• I-20 Extension

  ​If your I-20 is expiring but you need more time to complete your program at OCC, you may be eligible for an I-20 extension.  

  Schedule an appointment with an Academic Counselor to review your academic progress. The counselor will submit an I-20 extension recommendation to the Global Engagement Center. 

  We recommend that you apply for I-20 extension at least two months before the expiration date.  You MUST complete this process BEFORE your I-20 expires, you will NOT be eligible for an extension and you will be out of status.

  NOTE: If your I-20 ends this semester and you will transfer out for next semester, you do not need to extend your I-20 first. Example: If I-20 ends in Spring (May) and you will transfer out for Fall semester you do not need to extend I-20. Graduating students have a 60 day grace period (after expiration) to transfer their I-20.

• Transfer to Another School

  Accepted to another institution? Congratulations!  To request a transfer of your SEVIS record, ccomplete the Transfer Out Request Form and attach a copy of your acceptVance letter.  NOTE: 

  • If your I-20 ends this semester and you will transfer out for next semester, you do not need to extend your I-20 first. Example: If I-20 ends in Spring (May) and you will transfer out for Fall semester you do not need to extend I-20.
  • When we transfer out your SEVIS record (I-20), The new school will receive it electronically. You should contact them for your new I-20.

   

  Important Rules

  • Your transfer must be completed within the 60 day grace period - counted from the last day you attended classes at OCC.  If you miss the grace period, OCC will be unable to transfer your SEVIS record in active status! 
  • U.S. Immigration regulations require that you must attend the next available session at your new school. 
  • If you plan to travel outside of the U.S. before classes begin at your new school, you will need to use the new school's I-20 to re-enter the U.S. 
  • If you are currently on OPT from OCC, your OPT will end when we transfer your SEVIS record.

   

  Transfer Eligibility Forms

  • If the school you are applying to has a form that we need to fill out, submit it to the GEC by completing the Transfer Eligibility Form here. Allow 5 business days for processing. 
• Leave of Absence or Withdrawal

  ​See an F-1 advisor to discuss your options if you plan to take temporary leave of absence or completely withdraw from OCC.

  If you leave the U.S. without informing an F-1 advisor, your I-20 may be TERMINATED negatively which may cause immigration issues in the future. If you do not enroll and remain in the U.S., your I-20 will be TERMINATED which may have serious consequences.

  Whether you are facing personal difficulties/emergencies or simply returning home to pursue your studies or an internship, we are here to support you.

  Generally, you cannot take a semester off if you are in the U.S.

• Maintain Passport, Visa, and I-94

  Passport

  Your passport must be valid at all times while you are in the U.S. When you travel, you must have at least 6 months left on your passport to return to the U.S. Contact your embassy in the U.S. to renew your passport.

  Visa

  Your F-1 visa must be valid for you to enter the U.S. However, you can stay in the U.S. with an expired F-1 visa as long as you have a valid passport, I-20 and are maintaining status as an F-1 student.  For information on renewing your visa, visit the Visa Information page.

  I-94

  The I-94 form is a record of your admission to the U.S.  You can download your I-94 online.  Make sure that the "class of admission" on your I-94 says F-1.

  If you are unable to locate your I-94 online, or if any information is incorrect on your I-94, contact the Global Engagement Center.  

• Update Address, Phone, & Emergency Contact on MyCoast
  ​All F-1 students must provide their current U.S. address, phone number, and an emergency contact within 10 days of arriving in the U.S.  Current F-1 students should report any changes within 10 days. You can update this information quickly and easily through MyCoast. See this guide for detailed instructions (PDF).

Travel Regulations

• What documents do I need to reenter the U.S.?

  ​All students should bring the following documents:

  • Original I-20 with valid travel signature
    • read the section titled "Travel Signature on your Form I-20" below for details
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of return to the U.S.
  • Valid F-1 visa stamp in the passport.

   

  If on approved OPT, also bring:

  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card
  • Job offer letter or proof of employment

   

  Also recommended:

  • Proof of enrollment in current or next academic term (such as a print out of your unofficial transcript
  • Proof of financial support less than six months old
  • I-901 fee receipt 
• Travel signature on your Form I-20

  ​Check the second page of your I-20.  Your travel signature should be no more than 1 year old on the date you reenter the U.S.  If your travel signature is more than 1 year old, you must request a new one from the Global Engagement Center. Allow 5-7 business days for processing.

  An Electronic DSO signature is valid. The updated I-20 will be emailed to your OCC student email. Print it in color, and sign the form with blue pen on page 1 and carry with you in your carry-on when you travel.

   

  OPT Approved: 

  • Students on active OPT must renew their travel signature every 6 months.
  • Students on valid OPT who are not in the local area may request a new I-20 by submitting a completed I-20 request form 
• Form I-515A

  ​Carry ALL documents on your person, NOT in your checked-luggage. If you do not have all the required documents at the port of entry, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer has the ability to deny you entry to the USA. CBP officers always have discretion to determine admissibility. 

  You may be issued a form I-515A, which allows you to temporarily enter the U.S. for 30 days.  If you receive a Form I-515A at the port of entry, contact the Global Engagement Center IMMEDIATELY to schedule an appointment with an F-1 Advisor who will help you review and respond to the I-515A. You must respond to the I-515A by the date granted or you will be considered in violation and out of status.

• My visa has expired

  ​The visa document issued at the U.S. embassy and secured in your passport, is only necessary if you are planning to travel and must be valid at the time of reentry to the U.S.

  If the visa stamp in your passport has expired, you will need to renew your visa before returning to the U.S. Review the Visa Application Information carefully and plan ahead.

  If you are in the U.S. and are maintaining valid F-1 status, it is not necessary to travel ONLY to renew your visa. The visa cannot be renewed while in the U.S., but if it expires, you may remain in the U.S. without consequence.

Working in the U.S.

• On-campus Employment

  Location matters! On-campus employment must take place on the premises of the I-20 issuing institution (on the OCC campus), such as the Student Center dining hall or an academic department.  This may also include commercial firms that provide direct student services on-campus, such as the on campus Starbucks and the Bookstore. This DOES NOT include a construction firm that is building on campus.  All students must file a tax return annually during tax season (January 1- April 15) for the previous calendar year.

  On-campus employment Requirements

  1. Must be a current F-1 student, pursuing a full course of study
  2. Cannot exceed 19 hours per week while school is in session
  3. Does not have to be related to course of study
  4. Must maintain 2.5 GPA minimum

  Visit the Student Employment Program page to submit a general application and sign up for on-campus job fairs.

  OFF CAMPUS Employment is only allowed with CPT, OPT, or an employment authorization document issued by USCIS. 
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) / Off-Campus Internships

  Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment benefit for F-1 students that meet certain eligibility requirements and is specifically intended to allow students to gain experience in their chosen field of study before completing the program.

  Review CPT eligibility and application guidelines (PDF) carefully before beginning a CPT request.

   

  Eligibility Requirements

  • Student is currently in valid F-1 status and has been enrolled 1 full academic year (fall and spring semester)
  • Must have a 2.5 GPA minimum OR Internship must be required by major for graduation
  • Student must enroll in a course that requires an internship or fieldwork component. Internship may only be approved for the same term of enrollment
  • Must enroll in a full course of study or be approved for a Reduced Course Load

  General Guidelines

  • Each student is responsible for finding their own internship opportunity
  • Internship must be in student's field of study
  • Internship may begin no earlier than first day of classes and must end by last day of classes for the term
  • May not begin working until CPT has been approved and CPT I-20 has been issued by Global Engagement Center
  • May work no more than 20 hour per week
  • Must maintain valid F-1 status
  • CPT approval required for all internships, paid AND unpaid
  • CPT is subject to final review and approval by the Global Engagement Center. 

  Steps to Request CPT

  1. Attend an Internship Academy Orientation (Watson Hall 3^rd floor; Career Center) if an internship is not required by your major –- OR— Meet with your major department's Program Coordinator if an internship is required by your major
  2. Meet with an F-1 international student adviser to review eligibility
  3. Complete the Internship Academy Student Learning Outcomes Agreement (SLOA) forms and the CPT request form (PDF). Obtain all required signatures.
  4. Submit SLOA and CPT forms (PDF) to the Internship Academy or to your Program Coordinator (if internship is required by your major). Enroll in appropriate internship course
  5. Submit original CPT request form and signed CPT Guide (PDF) to the Global Engagement Center
  6. Wait 5-10 business days to obtain a new I-20 with CPT authorization and begin internship. Apply for SSN if necessary

  Changes to your CPT

  Please report any of the following changes to the Global Engagement Center:

  1. CPT Canceled - if you decide not to go through with your internship or if you drop the internship course
  2. Change of employment dates (i.e. if your internship ends sooner than expected)
  3. New Employer – if you change your employer, submit a new CPT form
  4. If you expect you will receive an incomplete in the course
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)

  Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of employment authorization that allows an international student in F-1 status authorization to work in the United States for up to 12 months in employment directly related to their major field of study, upon completion of their program.

   

  Attend an OPT Workshop

  The OPT application process can be complicated. Attend an OPT Workshop during your LAST semester at OCC for full details. OPT Workshop Registration. If you missed the last workshop you can watch the recording.

  Eligibility Requirements

  • You must have completed one year of full time enrollment at OCC in F-1 status

  • You must be in good academic standing and completing an AA/AS or a Certificate of Achievement during the current term in which you apply for OPT

  • You can apply as early as 90 days before the end date of your final semester, but no later than 30 days after the end of your final semester

  • Pursuing another program of study during OPT is not permitted. If you choose to transfer, your OPT will be canceled on the date your SEVIS record is transferred 

  General Guidelines

  • There is USCIS filing fee of $410

  • Each student is responsible for finding their own employment

  • Students must report employer/employment dates & locations in the SEVP OPT Student Portal

  • Employment must be in student's field of study

  • Employment may not begin until you receive your EAD card and the start date listed on your EAD card arrives

  • Employment must end by the end date listed on your EAD card

  • You cannot accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment days (cumulative during the entire duration of your OPT period)

  • Must work more than 20 hours/week

  • Must maintain valid F-1 status

  • Don't forget to file your tax returns before April 15th for the previous calendar year
• Students pending OPT approval or on Approved OPT

  When can I start working?​

  You may search for a job, and be interviewing while your OPT is pending.  You may not begin working until you have received your Employment Authorization Card (EAD) and the start date arrives. You may only work during the dates authorized on the card! You may not begin working before the start date or continue working beyond the end date printed on your EAD card. The EAD card is valid for a maximum of one year.

  Can I extend the EAD if I graduated with a STEM major?

  At the Associate Degree level there is no STEM extension possible.

  If you transfer and complete a bachelor's degree you may be able to do OPT again, and then you will be eligible for the STEM extension if your major is on the list of SEVIS STEM approved majors.

  Days of unemployment rule

  Students on OPT are allowed no more than 90 days of unemployment during the entire OPT period. The days are counted from the start date on your EAD card.  Jobs do not need to be paid. An internship or volunteer job or two or more part time jobs are allowed. Self-employment is allowed but you need to keep good records of the time you spend working on developing your business, working "gigs" etc... Make sure you report your employer info to the SEVP student portal. if you do not, they will assume you are not working and these days will count as days of unemployment.  There is an Unemployment Date Counter in the student portal.

  How many hours can I work?

  If you are on OPT, you must work Full time in a job directly related to your field of study.  Full time employment for OPT is a minimum of 20 hours per week.  You can work more if you like.  If you accumulate 90 days or more of unemployment (during the entire duration of your OPT), your F-1 status will no longer be valid and you must depart the U.S. You can work more hours if you like. 

  Do I need to keep the medical insurance?

  Yes. Maintain medical insurance coverage with OCC. If your US  employer provides full medical insurance coverage, insurance purchase through OCC may be waived. You will still be required to purchase the supplemental Evacuation/Repatriation coverage through JCB Insurance solutions. Complete the insurance waiver request form and upload the proof of your insurance policy through your employer showing your name and the dates of coverage.  At the time of application you should purchase the next semesters' term of international student insurance though JCB. After you receive your EAD card, then you can purchase the OPT insurance for the months left remaining on your EAD card, that you will be in the USA. 

  What is the SEVP Portal?

  You will receive an email from USCIS to set up your SEVP portal. This email will come to your OCC email address around the time that you receive your EAD card.  The link is valid only for 30 days. You must report all employment to USCIS through the SEVP portal. 

  You can access your student SEVP portal and make updates as needed after you set it up for the first time using the email link.  You should update any changes to your employer, job, your address, email address or phone number within 10 days of the change.

  Again, if you accumulate over 90 days of unemployment (during the entire duration of your OPT), your F-1 status will no longer be valid and you must depart the U.S.  If you do not report your employment to the portal, USCIS will assume you are not working! If you miss the 30 day time period for the set up link contact an F-1 advisor to reset your link.  If you miss the 10 day reporting deadline put in the information you can, and submit the proper dates to your F-1 advisor so they can edit it for you in OCC's SEVIS account.

  Can I take classes while on OPT?

  No. While on OPT, full time enrollment is prohibited. Do not start a new academic program while on OPT.   If you wish to begin a new academic program, you must request to transfer your SEVIS record to another school or contact your F1 advisor to get a  new I-20 to attend OCC again. As soon as we transfer your SEVIS record out or make a new I-20 for you, your OPT will be canceled.

  If the course is required by your employer, you may enroll in no more than one course, incidental to your OPT.  Discuss with an international student adviser before enrolling in any course.

• Severe Economic Hardship Off-Campus Work Authorization

  Severe Economic Hardship work authorization is based on a sudden, significant, unforeseen financial problem that occurs to your sponsor outside of their control. Proof of the financial distress is required. 

  If you believe you may be eligible, please watch the pre-recorded Severe Economic Hardship work authorization Workshop and review the Severe Economic Hardship work authorization Application Guide. Schedule an aappointment to speak with an F-1 adviser if you have additional questions.

  Eligibility Requirements:
  

  1. You must have completed one year of full-time enrollment at OCC in F-1 status
  2. You must be in good academic standing and enrolled in a full course of study (exceptions may apply)
  3. Employment will not interfere with your studies (20 hours or less)
  4. You can demonstrate that employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen economic circumstances beyond your (or your sponsor's control)

   

• Social Security Number

  A Social Security Number (SSN) is an identification number meant only for tax purposes, to track income and determine benefits. International students holding an F-1 visa are not eligible for an SSN unless approved for employment.  The SSN is not a work authorization. Just because you have a SSN does not mean you are eligible to work in the United States.

  For employment eligibility and approval requirements, please read above​ (On-campus employment, CPT, OPT).

  Once you are approved for employment, here is how to obtain an SSN:

   

  Employed On-Campus:

  1. Your OCC employer should complete a job offer letter, submit it to occinternational@cccd.edu.  Allow 2-3 business days for the GEC to review your offer and issue an SSN support letter.  We will send this support letter to your OCC student email address.

  2. Schedule an SSN Appointment at your nearest SSN administration Office: 

  • during COVID-19, walk-ins are not permitted, you must call to request an appointment

  3. Bring the following documents with you to your SSN appointment:

  • Job offer letter from your employer
  • GEC SSN support letter
  • Valid I-20
  • Valid Passport
  • I-94

   

  Curricular Practical Training (CPT):

  1. Complete the CPT form and submit to the GEC for approval. You will receive a new I-20 with CPT approval.

  2.  Schedule an SSN Appointment at your nearest SSN administration Office: 

  • during COVID-19, walk-ins are not permitted, you must call to request an appointment

  3. Bring the following documents to your SSN appointment:

  • Valid I-20 with CPT approval 
  • Valid Passport
  • I-94 

  Optional Practical Training (OPT)

  1. Apply for OPT and receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).You may apply for the SSN on the same form as OPT.

• Filing Taxes/Tax Return

  As an international student you must follow all the laws of the USA, including tax laws.

  This means filing a tax return during tax season (Jan 1- April 15) for any earnings during the previous calendar year.  As non-residents, F-1 students should typically submit a 1040NR or 1040EZNR form. 

  Please be aware many common software/online tax services are for residents only and will give incorrect results for non-residents. Please seek the advice of a professional tax prepare if you have questions abut your non-resident taxes.

  Here are some helpful resources:

  Tax Season Survival Guide for F-1 Students Article 

  The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.  Assists people with both federal and state tax returns, if they have an income of $60,000 or less. 

  IRS Tax Form 8843 Online Wizard

  IRS Info for Non-residents

Driving in the U.S.

• Apply for a CA Driver License

  ​To apply for a driver license, an F-1 student must have paid the SEVIS I-901 fee, must be enrolled full time, and must have a 'continued attendance' I-20. 

  You may obtain a 'continued attendance' I-20 after the ADD/DROP deadline of your first semester. All immigration documents must be valid for at least 60 days.  If valid for less than 60 days, the student is not eligible to apply for a driver license.

• Required Documents (ORIGINALS only)
  1. Current Passport valid for at least 6 months
  2. I-94 Arrival/Departure record
  3. Current 'continued attendance' I-20
  4. Social Security Number (SSN) – only if you have one. Most international students are NOT eligible for an SSN.  An SSN is NOT required for a drivers license. If you are asked for one, ask to speak to a DMV supervisor.
  5. OPTIONAL: Driver license from your home country – may exempt you from the driving skills test
• Application Steps
  1. ​Gather all required documents
  2. Visit your local DMV – make an appointment for shorter wait times
  3. Fill-out a Driver License application at the DMV – if you do not have an SSN, mark 'not eligible for SSN' on the application form
  4. Pay the application fee
  5. Complete the vision and written driving test
  6. In most cases, you will have to return for a behind-the-wheel skills test – an appointment typically required
  7. Allow two weeks for processing.  If you do not receive your driver license within 30 days, contact the DMV office. Do not contact the DMV before 30 days
• Follow U.S. and CA Laws
  • Do not drive a car or motorcycle without a license
  • No texting and driving
  • Do not drive if you have consumed alcohol.  Being pulled over while under the influence of alcohol or any other substance will result in a DUI, your license may be revoked, and you may be jailed and/or have to pay expensive fines and legal fees
  • You MUST have auto insurance
  • You may only drive in CA for 10 days with an international driver license. If you plan to drive, you must obtain a CA driver license
  • Once you pass the written driving test, you will be given a permit. You CANNOT drive alone with a permit. You must be accompanied by a licensed CA driver over the age of 25.
  • You can drive alone, only once you have your driver license
• Buying a Car

  Whether you buy a car from a private party or from a dealer, it is always a good idea to find out if you are getting a fair price.  Here are some resources for price comparison:

  • Kelly Blue book
  • Edmunds – How to Buy a Car
• Driver's Test Resources

  ​For more information about obtaining a driver license, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.

  • How to obtain a driver license
  • Sample Driver License Tests
  • Schedule a DMV appointment
• Nearest DMV locations

  Nearest DMV Locations

  Costa Mesa DMV	Santa Ana DMV
  650 W. 19th Street Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (800) 777-0133	1330 E First Street Santa Ana, CA 92701 (800) 777-0133

• International Driving Permit
  Are you planning to drive an automobile in the U.S. at any time? If so, it's important that you are aware that the state of California does not recognize an International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driver License or International License, as a valid driver license.