J-1 Student Compliance Form

Below is a copy of the J-1 Student Compliance form. All new J-1 students are required to read and acknowledge understanding and compliance of the items in this form as part of International Student Check-In. After submitting the form through the iStart Pre-Arrival Checklist, you will be emailed a copy for your records.

U.S. Government regulations state how international students must maintain status. Failure to follow these regulations could result in your J-1 status being canceled. It is the goal of the Office of International Education to empower international students with the understanding to maintain valid J-1 status throughout their entire academic career in the United States.

Please remember that maintaining status is your responsibility. The following information is grouped into 4 categories: Documents/Data, Enrollment, Employment, and US/State Government Requirements. If you do not understand something written below, please see an International Student Advisor with your questions.

  1. Documents/Data
    • Keep a valid, unexpired passport and DS-2019.
    • Update current, physical address in Buzzport every time you move, within 10 days of moving.
    • If you need more time, submit a DS-2019 extension request before the DS-2019 expires.
    • Notify OIE of any change in information or addition of dependents.
  2. Enrollment
    • Maintain a full course of study as defined by your academic division. Exceptions:
      • Bona fide academic reasons in writing from the academic dean or advisor presented to the RO/ARO.
      • Documented medical reasons from a Medical Doctor in Atlanta presented to RO/ARO.
      • Vacation Semester: You are eligible for a vacation semester if you have been full-time enrolled for the previous 2 consecutive semesters at Georgia Tech Atlanta.
      • Final term in which less than a full course of study is needed to complete the academic requirements.
  3. Employment
    • Engage only in employment authorized in writing by the RO/ARO. Working without authorization is a serious violation of your status; you will be working illegally.
    • Work no more than 20 hours/week (on and/or off campus) while enrolled full-time.
    • Apply for Academic Training before the completion of your academic program.
  4. U.S./State Government
    • Have a valid travel signature on your DS-2019 before leaving and re-entering the US. The signature is valid for 1 year.
    • Maintain adequate medical insurance for self and all accompanying dependents.
    • Complete an Income Tax Return as per IRS regulations by April 15th of every year.
    • Comply with all local, state and federal laws.

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