Important Information for F-1 Students on the Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, and IxD Programs
The SMC Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, and IxD programs are all selective programs that international students must apply to separately from the regular International Student Application. Please read the following information carefully and contact the International Education Center with any questions related to the F-1 requirements. Questions about the specific program applications or requirements should go directly to the Health Sciences or IxD counselors.
Current SMC F-1 Students
- Current SMC F-1 students who already have an SMC ID number can apply to these programs the same way that domestic students do, through the individual program application process:
- If you are admitted to the program, you must request an updated I-20 by reapplying through the International Student Application Portal at least 30 days before the start of classes. You will need to pay a new application fee and submit updated documents including a new bank statement. Click here for F-1 Application Instructions
- Once you receive the updated I-20, you will be asked to complete a new Check In Form in your International Student Portal, and then we will upload your registered I-20 to your International Student Portal.
Non-SMC Students
- F-1 status students who do not already have an SMC ID number will need to apply directly through the International Student Application Portal in order to get an ID number first, THEN apply to the specific program you are interested in (see links above).
- Please note that even if you are not admitted to the program, your international application and Seminar fees cannot be refunded.
*IMPORTANT: NURSING AND RESPIRATORY CLINICALS & OTHER OFF-CAMPUS INTERNSHIPS
- F-1 students participating in clinicals, or any off-campus training or internships, are required by F-1 regulations to get Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approval prior to starting the off-campus training.
- To request CPT approval, schedule an appointment with an Immigration Advisor by emailing intled@smc.edu or come in to the IEC office during our open hours as soon as you find out your clinical/internship location.
*Participating in off-campus clinicals or internships without prior authorization on your I-20 is an F-1 visa status violation and will result in the Termination of your I-20.
*NOTE ABOUT IxD and OPT: Please note that the IxD program is not designated as a “STEM” major, so students participating in this program will not be eligible for the STEM OPT extension.