IMPORTANT TRAVEL ADVISORY/REENTRY UPDATE:
We understand that as a new F-1 Visa student you may be concerned about the potential impact of the upcoming change in the U.S. federal administration on your ability to enter the United States. It is important to stay informed during times of change.
As a new student for the Spring 2025 semester, you are allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start of the spring semester on February 18th, 2025. We advise you to enter the U.S. on January 19th, 2025 to minimize the chance of complications. Please note: The earliest you may enter the U.S. is January 19th, 2025 and not before.
There are many variables that can affect the entry process, please follow the steps below to improve your chances of a smooth reentry into the United States:
Ensure Your Visa and Documentation are Valid
- Make sure your F-1 Student visa is valid for reentry. If your visa has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new one before traveling. Be sure to contact our Immigration Team to discuss the visa application process before you travel.
- Double-check your passport’s expiration date. It should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date to the U.S.
- Always carry your I-20 signed by a Designated School Official (DSO).
- Print and carry with you proof of winter/spring 2025 course registration.
- Have the contact information of the International Education Center (IEC) handy. Please reach out to us if you are experiencing difficulties entering the U.S. We also encourage you to give the IEC contact information to the airport officials so that they can directly reach out to us to verify your student status.
We hope you have a safe and restful winter break, and we look forward to serving you in the new year. Our office will be closed December 23rd through January 1st. Normal business hours will resume on January 2nd.
Welcome New Students! We're Glad You're Here!
Please reach out to us anytime with your questions. We are here to help guide you and make your transition to SMC easy!
The International Education Center is happy to unveil our new International Student Portal(opens in new window) that you will use to submit required information such as the mandatory Check In Form for new/transfer students and request F-1 benefits such as reduced course loads, I-20 travel signatures, assistance with Optional Practical Training (OPT), and much more. For more information on the portal, check out the F-1 Student Forms page.
Winter 2025 Enrollment Requirements for F-1 Students:
You must be enrolled in at least 4 units with a minimum of 1 on-ground or hybrid class.
Spring 2025 Enrollment Requirements for F-1 Students:
PLEASE NOTE: All international students on an F-1 Visa must enroll in a minimum of 12 units and only 1 online class (no more than 3 units) can count toward the required 12 unit minimum.
For the Spring 2025 semester, please adjust your schedule to on-ground and hybrid sections of your classes with no more than 1 online class. Remember that only one (1) online course of no more than 3 units will count towards the 12 unit requirement. The rest of your courses must be on-ground or hybrid.
If you need help finding and enrolling in on-ground or hybrid courses for Spring 2025, please speak with an International Student Counselor by joining a Zoom Express session.
Click here to see the Class Schedule.
Winter/ Spring 2025 New Student Applicants
Here is why you should apply for Winter/ Spring 2025 Semester:
- During the Winter term and Spring 2025 semester, Santa Monica College will continue to offer on ground and hybrid course options in addition to some online classes for new students.
- SMC's world-renowned faculty and administrators are preparing your on campus, hybrid and online remote learning experience for Winter and Spring 2025.
Don't wait. Get started towards achieving your educational goals now. Click Below to Apply!