» Full Course Exception

Immigration regulations require an F-1 student to maintain full-time enrollment. A student enrolled in their final semester or dissertation/thesis at the university may request a full course exception (FCE) and must receive approval from an international student advisor.

Request approval for an FCE (less than 12 credits for UG and 9 credits for GR).

Complete one of the following requests on this page depending on your academic level.

Deadline: End of week 2 (University enrollment deadline for the semester). Refer to the University Academic Calendar.

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Class schedule must be final at the time of request submission.

Register for the final course/s you plan to take during your last semester at Chapman. Your schedule must be final at the time of your request.
Schedule a Graduation Review appointment with an Academic Advisor to confirm you are on track for graduation for the term you are applying for the exception.
Must apply for graduation (degree conferral) through your Student Portal.
Submit Full Course Exception request.

Exception Deadline: End of week 2 (University enrollment deadline for the semester).

Graduate and thesis/dissertation enrollment

The Office of the Associate Vice President for Graduate Education outlines the enrollment policies and requirements for students completing a thesis or dissertation.
Review the Graduate Student Full-Time Enrollment and Continuous Enrollment Policies.
Please read the policies in their entirety and complete the form (only if applicable).
Email the completed Graduate Student Enrollment Exception Form to graded@chapman.edu.

International Student Services provides general guidance. Any advice provided to you by the ISS should not be construed as legal advice.

Additionally, due to the fluid nature of governmental interpretation, government agencies such as USCIS/ICE/CBP may change their interpretation of immigration laws/regulations and eligibility requirements for benefits at any time. We will do our best to provide the most current guidance.

Each case is fact-specific and it is advised that you contact an experienced immigration attorney if you have questions regarding your situation.

» Full Course Exception

Undergraduate

Graduate and Doctoral students

Contact ISS