Time Study Admission: International Student Opportunities

International students can be admitted as part-time students in some countries, but the rules vary depending on the location and the type of visa or permit they hold. For example, in the US, F-1 visa holders are typically required to maintain full-time enrollment, but there is a mechanism known as Reduced Course Load (RCL) authorization that allows international students to continue their studies part-time. In Canada, international students with a valid study permit are allowed to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week without a work permit, but they must be a full-time student both before and after the break to work full-time during the break.

Part-time study for international students in the US

International students in the US on an F-1 visa are typically required to maintain full-time enrollment, which involves enrolling in a predetermined number of credit hours or courses as defined by their educational institution. Undergraduate students typically have to enroll in at least 12 credits per semester, while the requirement for graduate students is lower, averaging around 9 credit hours each semester.

However, there is a mechanism known as Reduced Course Load (RCL) authorisation that allows international students to continue their studies part-time while still holding an F-1 visa. To be eligible for an RCL, students must provide evidence of academic challenges or a medical problem that prevents them from enrolling full-time. Before reducing their course load, students must obtain clearance from their designated school official (DSO).

It is important to note that part-time students are generally not eligible for a US student visa. Therefore, international students must carefully review the terms and limitations of their F-1 visa and consult their university's international student office to ensure they comply with their visa requirements.

While studying part-time in the US as an international student is possible under specific circumstances, it requires careful planning and adherence to guidelines established by the university and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Part-time study for international students in the UK

International students can be admitted as part-time students in the UK, but their eligibility for a student visa depends on their specific circumstances.

International students can study part-time in the UK, but their visa requirements will vary depending on their course and attendance requirements. For example, at Aberystwyth University, international students can study research courses part-time without a Student Visa, but they must attend the university for at least one week every academic year. In this case, students may need to apply for a Visitor Visa and agree on a schedule of attendance with their supervisor and department head.

On the other hand, at the University of Cambridge, international students admitted onto a full-time MPhil or MRes degree and requiring visa sponsorship are expected to study full-time. The university will only sponsor a student visa for a part-time MPhil or MRes if the student has a disability or if the programme does not have a full-time equivalent.

For part-time postgraduate degrees at Cambridge, students will need to check what visa support can be provided based on the attendance requirements and structure of their specific programme. If a student already has a UK immigration status that permits them to undertake their course of study, they will need to provide evidence of this during the admissions process.

For part-time PhD students at Cambridge who are based overseas and only visit Cambridge for short periods of attendance, the university will facilitate this under the Visitor Immigration Route. These students will need to be familiar with the restrictions of this immigration status.

Student visa requirements in the UK

In general, to be eligible for a Student Visa in the UK, an individual must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor. The education provider will send a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number, which is required for the visa application.

The course must meet certain requirements, such as being a full-time course leading to a qualification below degree level with at least 15 hours a week of organized daytime study, or a part-time course leading to a qualification above degree level.

Additionally, individuals under 18 who want to study at an independent school in the UK may be eligible for a Child Student Visa, and those studying or researching sensitive topics at RQF level 7 or above may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Working off-campus as an international student in Canada

International students in Canada are allowed to work off-campus without a work permit, provided they meet certain requirements. These include being a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) and being in the last semester of your study program, where a full course load is not required for completion. Students must ensure they meet all the requirements for working while studying, and if they are eligible for off-campus work, they can begin working without a permit. However, it is important to note that working more than 24 hours per week is a violation of the study permit conditions, and students may lose their student status and face other consequences such as having to leave the country.

To work in Canada, individuals require a Social Insurance Number (SIN), a 9-digit number provided by the Canadian government. To obtain a SIN, students must have certain conditions printed on their study permit, such as being eligible to work off-campus under specific criteria. Students can request to add these conditions to their permit if they are eligible for off-campus work. Additionally, if a student's study permit initially did not allow them to work off-campus, they can apply to have this condition removed by submitting a request to change the conditions, along with a fee.

It is important to note that the rules regarding off-campus work for international students in Canada may change, and it is the responsibility of both the student and their employer to ensure that the student is eligible to work without a permit. Students can refer to the conditions on their study permit to understand their eligibility for off-campus work. If in doubt, students can seek clarification from the relevant Canadian government departments or their educational institution.

International students in Canada should be mindful of the regulations surrounding their employment, as non-compliance can have significant consequences. By understanding and adhering to the requirements, students can benefit from the opportunity to work off-campus while pursuing their studies.

Work permits for international students in Canada

International students in Canada may require a work permit to work during their studies. The type of work permit needed depends on the nature of the work. For instance, some work can be completed under a study permit, while other jobs may require a work permit.

International students enrolled in academic, professional, or vocational training programs offered by a Designated Learning Institution may work as part of a co-op or internship program if the work is an essential part of their program. In such cases, students will need a co-op work permit and a study permit. A co-op work permit can facilitate both unpaid and paid placements. If the students are eligible, an open work permit can be issued with the institution listed as the employer. In situations where several work periods are necessary throughout the program, the work permit can be issued for the same period as the study permit.

International students, scholars, and scientists may also obtain work permits for work related to a research, educational, or training program. These work permits are issued under specific programs funded by agencies such as the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC).

Additionally, work permits issued under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program allow international students who have graduated from a participating Canadian post-secondary institution to gain valuable Canadian work experience. Students intending to stay in Canada and apply for a PGWP should change their status to a visitor if their study permit expires before they apply. They have up to 90 days after their study permit expires to restore their status as a student; otherwise, they will have to leave the country.

To apply for a work permit, students must pay the biometrics fee, wait for their biometric instruction letter (BIL), and book an appointment to provide their biometrics at an official biometric collection service point.

Maintaining F-1 visa status while studying part-time in the US

International students can be admitted as part-time students in the US, but they must maintain their F-1 visa status by adhering to specific guidelines. Here are some essential considerations for maintaining F-1 visa status while studying part-time:

Understanding the F-1 Visa Requirements:

F-1 visas are typically issued to international students enrolled full-time in an academic educational program, language-training program, or vocational course at a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program. F-1 visa holders are required to maintain their student status by fulfilling the purpose for which the visa was issued and following associated regulations.

Part-Time Study Arrangements:

While F-1 visa holders are generally required to maintain full-time enrollment, part-time study is possible under certain circumstances. If you are unable to meet the full-time enrollment requirement due to academic challenges or medical issues, you may be eligible for a Reduced Course Load (RCL) authorization, which allows you to continue your studies part-time while maintaining your F-1 visa status. It is crucial to consult with your university's international student office and seek guidance from your Designated School Official (DSO) before making any decisions regarding part-time study.

Employment Considerations:

F-1 students must follow specific guidelines for on-campus and off-campus employment. During the first academic year, F-1 students may only work on-campus and must not exceed 20 hours during the school term. After the first year, F-1 students may engage in certain types of off-campus employment, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or employment due to special situations like economic hardship. Any off-campus employment must be authorized by the DSO and USCIS and must be related to the student's area of study. Working without authorization can result in immediate departure from the country and potential re-entry issues.

Academic Progress and Attendance:

To maintain F-1 visa status, students must attend all their classes and maintain normal academic progress. If a student is struggling academically, they should immediately consult their DSO to discuss options, such as a reduced course load or other accommodations.

Maintaining Validity of Visa:

F-1 students should ensure that their visa remains valid throughout their studies. This includes keeping their passport up to date and renewing their visa, if necessary, before it expires. Additionally, students must maintain their status as a full-time student, as dropping below full-time enrollment without prior authorization can jeopardize their visa status.

Compliance with Immigration Laws:

It is imperative to adhere to immigration laws and regulations while in the United States. F-1 students should keep their Designated School Official (DSO) informed of any changes in their academic or employment status, as well as maintain valid contact information with the university and USCIS.

In summary, maintaining F-1 visa status while studying part-time in the US requires careful planning, compliance with regulations, and open communication with university officials and USCIS. International students should thoroughly understand the requirements of their visa status and seek guidance when necessary to ensure they remain in compliance throughout their studies in the United States.

Frequently asked questions