International Students FAQ’s

Undergraduate Students

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I just declared a new major. Do I need to let ISS know?

Yes, you will need to submit the Addition/Change of Major form on Terra Dotta if you have added a new major or changed majors.

How many credits do I need to enroll in?

According to ISS (https://iss.wisc.edu/students/current-students/f1-information/full-time-enrollment/), to maintain your visa status, undergraduates must enroll in a minimum of 12 credits each fall and spring semester.

Can I take less than 12 credits in my last semester?

According to ISS policy (https://iss.wisc.edu/students/current-students/reduced-course-load/), students are eligible to take less than 12 credits if you need less than a full-time course load to complete your program of study in your final major.

How do I apply for RCL?

Students seeking a reduced course load (RCL) verification from a Data Science or Statistics major advisor must provide the information requested on the Stats/DS RCL Qualtrics form.
Once your information has been reviewed you will be contacted by your advisor and may need to schedule an appointment, provide more information, or be asked to submit your Terra Dotta form.
You may need to review the ISS website on RCL to answer some questions on the form.

Is my major STEM-designated for CPT and OPT?

Both the Statistics and Data Science majors are STEM-designated degree programs by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). You can view a list of all eligible programs here: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/stem-opt-hub/additional-resources/eligible-cip-codes-for-the-stem-opt-extension.

Am I eligible to study abroad?

Some International students (holding an F-1 or J-1 visa) do choose to study abroad. Students considering this option should review the Study Abroad website with info specific to International students: https://studyabroad.wisc.edu/student-identity/international-students-f1-and-j1-visa-holders/.

Graduate Students

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How many credits do I need to enroll in?

According to ISS (https://iss.wisc.edu/students/current-students/f1-information/full-time-enrollment/), to maintain your visa status, graduate students must enroll in a minimum of 8 credits each fall and spring semester.

Can I enroll part time in my last semester?

According to ISS policy (https://iss.wisc.edu/students/current-students/reduced-course-load/), students in their final semester of study are eligible to enroll part time in their last semester if they need less than a full-time course load to complete their program of study.

How do I apply for RCL?

Follow the steps listed on the ISS webpage: https://iss.wisc.edu/students/current-students/reduced-course-load/ If you are entering your final semester, list your graduate program coordinator’s email information in the request form in Terra Dotta. You do not need an appointment with your coordinator/advisor.

If you are requesting an RCL for any reason other than final semester of study, consult with ISS advisors or your graduate program coordinator to determine if you are eligible.

Is my program STEM-designated for CPT and OPT?

The traditional MS Statistics program, the MS Statistics: Statistics and Data Science (MSDS) program, and the Statistics PhD program are all STEM-designated degree programs by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Students can view a list of the STEM-designated degree programs here:  https://www.ice.gov/sites/default/files/documents/stem-list.pdf