Studying Double Degrees: International Students' Options

International students often consider pursuing two courses simultaneously for various reasons. While this may be possible in certain circumstances, it is essential to understand the requirements and regulations that apply. In the United States, F-1 students can enrol concurrently in two Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools, but specific conditions must be met. Similarly, in Canada, while having multiple study permits for different institutions is generally not allowed, there may be exceptions for online learning or part-time programs. Time management and workload considerations are crucial, as managing two full-time courses can be challenging. Understanding the specific rules of the countries and institutions involved is vital before making any decisions.

Can international students study two courses at the same time?

International students can take classes from different institutions, but there are conditions

Firstly, the schools in question must be Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified. This is an American immigration regulation that allows international students to take classes from different institutions, provided they meet certain conditions. The easiest way to find out if a school is SEVP-certified is to check the official webpage of the International Services of the school and contact the relevant staff member.

Secondly, international students must register for a full course of study. This means that the combined enrollment at both schools must amount to a full-time course of study. The number of credits taken by the student must satisfy the full-time requirement. It is important to note that different schools may have different requirements for what constitutes a full-time course of study, such as clock hours versus credit hours. Students should work with their home university's Designated School Official (DSO) or International Student Advisor to determine what constitutes a full-time course of study.

In cases of concurrent enrollment, the school from which the student will earn their degree or certification should issue and manage updates to the student's Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." The DSO from this school is responsible for all reporting requirements.

It is important to note that, in the case of Canada, an international student cannot have two study permits for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) at the same time. The only exception is if the Canadian institution offers 100% online learning.

Students need to be enrolled in a full course of study

International students can take classes from different institutions, but there are conditions that must be met. Firstly, the student must be enrolled in a full course of study, which is typically defined as full-time study. This means that the combined enrollment at both schools must amount to a full-time course of study. The number of credits that the student plans to take should satisfy the full-time requirement. The specific number of credits required for full-time status may vary between institutions, so it is important to check with the individual schools.

The full course of study rule applies to all international students, except for a few occasions, and it comes into play for concurrent enrollment as well. Concurrent enrollment refers to attending two different institutions during the same term. For F-1 students in the United States, concurrent enrollment is permitted if their current school does not offer a class they need to complete their program or degree.

In addition to the full-time study requirement, there are other conditions that must be met for concurrent enrollment. The schools that the student plans to take classes from should be SEVP-certified. The school from which the student will earn their degree or certification should issue and manage updates to the student's Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." The designated school official (DSO) from this school is responsible for all of the reporting requirements in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.

It is important to note that the rules and regulations regarding concurrent enrollment and full-time study may vary depending on the country and the student's visa status. For example, in Canada, it is generally not possible to have two study permits for different institutions at the same time. However, there are exceptions, such as when the institution offers 100% online learning or when the student holds a PGWP, which allows for part-time study.

Students need to communicate with an Academic Advisor for credit articulation

International students can indeed take classes from different institutions simultaneously. However, this is conditional on two key factors: the student must be enrolled in a full course of study, and the schools in question must be SEVP-certified.

The full course of study rule applies to all international students, except on rare occasions. This means that the number of credits an international student plans to take must satisfy the full-time requirement. It is important to note that different institutions may have varying definitions of what constitutes a full course of study. For example, some universities operate on a semester-based system, while others may have a quarter-based academic calendar.

To ensure compliance with the regulations, international students must communicate with an Academic Advisor for credit articulation. Credit transfer and articulation are essential processes that allow students to receive recognition for their prior learning and apply it towards a new program or degree. This can help students save time and money, as well as prevent them from repeating courses they have already completed.

Academic Advisors play a crucial role in helping students navigate the often complex landscape of credit transfer and articulation. They can provide guidance on the various options available, including formal agreements or partnerships between institutions, as well as individual assessment and approval processes. Advisors can also assist students in understanding the terminology, policies, and criteria used by different institutions, enabling effective communication with faculty, administrators, registrars, and accreditors.

Furthermore, Academic Advisors can support students in monitoring their progress, updating their academic plans, and adjusting their course load as needed. They can also help students access resources and services to ensure they stay on track with their academic and career goals. By working closely with an Academic Advisor, international students can make informed decisions about their educational journey and maximise the benefits of credit articulation.

Students need to be enrolled in SEVP-certified schools

International students on an F-1 visa are permitted to take classes at different institutions, provided they satisfy two conditions: the schools must be Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified, and the student must register for a full course of study.

SEVP-certified schools are authorised by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enrol nonimmigrant students in the F (academic) and M (vocational) classifications. The SEVP is part of the National Security Investigations Division and acts as a bridge between government organisations with an interest in information on nonimmigrants whose primary reason for coming to the US is to study.

The SEVP provides approval and oversight to schools enrolling F and M nonimmigrant students and offers guidance on maintaining their status. The SEVP also determines how many designated school officials a school can nominate. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a web-based system that tracks and monitors nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors in the US. It is the core technology used by the DHS to fulfil its mission.

To become SEVP-certified, schools must submit evidence supporting their Form I-17, "Petition for Approval of School for Attendance by Nonimmigrant Student", via the SEVIS. Schools can voluntarily withdraw their SEVP certification by submitting a letter on the school's letterhead, signed by the school president or owner and Principal Designated School Official (PDSO).

To check if a school is SEVP-certified, students can visit the school's official website and find the email address of the relevant contact person. The student can then write a polite email stating their visa status and interest in enrolling, and ask if the school is SEVP-certified.

Students need to be aware of the challenges of managing two courses

International students need to be aware of the challenges of managing two courses at once. While it is possible to be enrolled in two courses or institutions simultaneously, it is important to carefully consider the workload and time management implications.

One key challenge is ensuring compliance with immigration regulations. For instance, in the United States, international students with an F-1 visa can enrol in two different SEVP-certified schools, but the combined enrolment must amount to a full-time course of study. Students need to be diligent in ensuring they meet the requirements for full-time study, which may vary depending on the institutions and programs involved. Failure to maintain their full-time status could result in issues with their visa or immigration status.

A second challenge is the increased workload and time commitment. Juggling the demands of two courses can be overwhelming, with students needing to manage assignments, exams, and other commitments for both. This can lead to a higher risk of burnout and stress. Additionally, professors will expect timely submission of assignments, regardless of the student's other commitments.

Students also need to be mindful of the administrative tasks associated with managing two courses. This includes communicating with academic advisors and international student advisors to ensure they are meeting the requirements for both courses and staying on track with their degree or certification.

Lastly, there may be financial implications to consider. Enrolling in two courses could result in higher tuition fees and additional costs for resources and materials. Students need to carefully evaluate their financial situation and determine if they can afford the fees for both courses.

Overall, while it is possible for international students to manage two courses at the same time, it is essential to be aware of the challenges and plan accordingly. Effective time management, staying organised, and seeking support when needed will be crucial to successfully navigating the demands of concurrent enrolment.

Frequently asked questions