Stay in the class and talk to someone about your difficulties and the possibility of passing the class. Start with Melanie Boston, Assistant Director, and your academic adviser.
Check if you are eligible for Exception to Full Time Enrollment. If yes, apply for a Reduced Course Load through iStart. See Dagmara Karnowski, International Student Adviser, for help with this process. Remember, there is no guarantee that your request will be approved.
Academic success frequently asked questions
If you are having difficulty with a course, contact Melanie Boston, the Assistant Director. She can recommend strategies and resources. We believe that you can be successful despite challenges such as language and cultural differences, and it is important to ask for help as soon as you have a concern.
F-1 visa students must maintain full time academic status (12 credits) to fulfill Department of Homeland Security Requirements. Dropping below 12 credits can have serious results for your academic plans, visa status, and finances, so please consider it carefully.
You have two options:
Please take a look at the university policies for dropping a class (particularly the Late Drop policy). You still need to go to LionPath OR the Registrar’s Office in 121 Sutherland to drop or Withdraw from classes, even if it is approved by the International Student Advisor. She does not handle the academic side.
Any time you are having a problem and need to miss classes: Be aware that absences will affect your grade. If the problem is serious, please contact Global Programs.
Since you are not eligible to enroll for the next two terms, your I20 record will be terminated, and you will have to leave the United States.
If you are planning to return after two semesters, contact Melanie Boston, Assistant Director, and Dagmara Karnowski, International Student Adviser, for steps you will need to take.
AIMSS (Academic Integration for Multilingual Student Success) courses are specifically designed for international students' first year success. We recommend that all international students take ENGL 83S in the first semester, as the course will help first-year students feel part of the campus community, acquire academic skills, and navigate university resources and services. Other AIMSS courses include sections of ENGL 15 (Writing) and CAS 100A (Public Speaking), which have built-in language and culture support.
Learn more about the AIMSS program here https://www.abington.psu.edu/academics/other-areas-study/aimss
Go to Starfish, scroll down to “Make an Appointment through Starfish”.
Always read emails from the Registrar and your academic adviser! Global Programs also sends reminders and information through Canvas. The registration timetables and other important registration information are available at the Office of the Registrar.
Chaiken Center for Student Success provides tutoring support for students in math, science, writing and study strategies. Tutoring and writing consultations are usually on campus, or in person.
See detailed instructions at the Chaiken Center for Student Success.
