Full-Time Enrollment Exemptions

You can be exempted from full-time enrollment if you meet one of the conditions below and receive ISS approval.

Last Semester

When to Apply

  • If you need fewer units to complete your degree in your final semester

How to Apply

 Submit the Full-Time Enrollment Exemption e-form before the semester begins:

  • Enter the name and email address for your academic department so they can confirm your degree completion date and eligibility for reduced units.

  • If you have more than one major, submit the Secondary Advisor Information e-form.

Normal processing time is 10 business days.

Eligibility Considerations

  • Only 1 class or 3 units can be online.

  • You must enroll in at least 1 unit of in-person or flex in-person coursework.

  • Student workers must meet minimum enrollment requirements to be eligible to work on campus.

Failure to graduate after receiving a full-time enrollment exemption for final semester may jeopardize your immigration status. Meet with an international student advisor if you have concerns about your ability to graduate.

Medical Conditions

When to Apply

  • If you cannot attend classes due to a severe illness or injury

How to Apply

  1. Meet with an international student advisor to review eligibility.

  2. Submit a letter from a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy or a licensed clinical psychologist recommending a partial or full drop due to a medical condition (specific details about the condition are not required).

Eligibility Considerations

  • You are eligible for up to 12 months of medical reduced course load per degree level.  You must reapply for a new exemption each semester it is needed.

  • Dropping to 0 units may affect your ability to carry the Student Health Insurance. Contact Campus Health for more information.

Academic Difficulty

When to Apply

  • If you are having severe difficulty understanding classroom lectures due to lack of proper English or reading skills, unfamiliarity with American teaching methods or improper course level placement.

How to Apply

  1. Meet with an international student advisor to review eligibility.

  2. Submit a letter from your academic advisor explaining why you need the exemption.

Eligibility Considerations

  • Exemptions for academic difficulty are normally approved during your first semester, and only once per degree level.

  • You must enroll in a minimum of 6 units.