Current Students

Below are the regulations that the University must follow in order to host international students and scholars at Rutgers:

• F-1 Regulations
• J-1 Regulations

Learn the key responsibilities required to maintain your F-1 or J-1 status, including enrollment, address updates, and document validity.

Learn More →

Understand full-time enrollment requirements, online course limitations, and what counts toward your degree progression.

View Class Requirements 

Planning to travel into and outside of the U.S.? Review travel signature information and procedures, required documents, and important re-entry guidance before you travel.

Travel Information →

If you change your program/major or degree level, you will need a new I-20/DS-2019 reflecting the change from Rutgers - Newark’s Office of International Student and Scholar Services. 

Find additional information on changing your major, degree level, requesting program extensions, or taking a leave of absence.

Explore Academic Changes →

The Rutgers - Newark Office of International Student & Scholar Services, along with our Office of Business and Financial Services can help international students navigate the proper billing of your student account and provide professional, prompt, courteous service to resolve financial problems on an individual basis. 

Review general international student fees, payment deadlines, and billing guidance linked below.

• International Student Fee Breakdown
• Billing & Payment Deadlines
• Payment Methods
• Late Fee Information

International students are required to maintain health insurance coverage during their time at Rutgers-Newark by either signing up for Rutgers University Health Insurance or ensuring their own policy meets Rutgers University standards. Visit the RGlobal health insurance page for details and coverage guidance

• Enrollment Requirements
• Insurance Waiver Information
• Coverage Information
• Deadlines
• Find a Provider
• Emergency Care Resources

Student Health Services provides accessible, confidential health care and wellness support to Rutgers-Newark students, including primary care, illness and injury care, immunizations, and referrals.

Visit Student Health Services for services, appointments, health requirements, and resources.

All new and transfer students must meet New Jersey and Rutgers University immunization requirements. Students are responsible for submitting required immunization records through the Rutgers Immunization Portal by the applicable deadline.

Visit the Rutgers Immunization page for current requirements, deadlines, and submission instructions.

Dependents of F-1 or J-1 visa holders who wish to join the primary visa holder in the United States may be eligible to apply for F-2 or J-2 dependent status.Individuals planning to visit the United States for a short period (three months or less) are generally encouraged to apply for a B-2 tourist visa instead. 

• Add a Dependent
• Dependent Travel Guidance
• Dependent Eligibility & Restrictions
• Health Insurance for Dependents
• Rutgers Global Dependent Information

Whether you're looking for a part-time job on campus, training tied to your field of study off-campus, or post-graduation work experience, the key is first knowing which category applies to you and what approvals you need. Explore employment opportunities available to international students and understand the authorization requirements..

• On-Campus Employment
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• STEM OPT Extension
• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Employment Verification Letters
• Rutgers Global Employment Resources

Please contact an OISS advisor for Newark-specific guidance.

Pursuing research and study opportunities outside the United States can be a valuable part of your academic journey, but time spent abroad can affect your non-immigrant record, your enrollment status, and your re-entry to the U.S. Before finalizing plans, confirm your eligibility, gather the right travel documentation, and coordinate with both OISS and your academic department. Review the links below for more detailed information.

• Research Abroad Eligibility
• Travel Documentation
• Enrollment While Abroad
• Academic Department Coordination
• Rutgers Global Research Abroad Information

The OISS hosts events and workshops throughout the year to help you stay informed, meet key requirements, and connect with the international student community. From orientation and non-immigrant info sessions to practical training (off-campus employment) and tax workshops, these programs walk you through important processes and deadlines while giving you space to ask questions and meet other students. 

Visit our department page on Raiderlink to RSVP and learn more about upcoming International Student events such as: 

• OISS Social Events
• CPT/OPT Workshops
• International Student Orientation
• Tax Workshops

DOWNLOAD THE RAIDERLINK APP 

Stay informed about international policy changes, travel advisories, and federal updates.

• Travel Advisories
• USCIS Processing Updates
• SEVIS Announcements
• Federal Policy Changes

International students can be frequent targets of scams involving fake government officials, job offers, housing, payments, and immigration threats. Be cautious when sharing personal information, making payments, or responding to urgent requests.

If you receive a suspicious call, email, job offer, or payment request, do not respond or send money. Contact our office for guidance if you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate or believe you may have been targeted by a scam.

Helpful Resources:

• Rutgers Global: Scams & Fraud — Common scams, warning signs, and prevention tips
• USCIS: Avoid Scams — Information about immigration-related scams
• Federal Trade Commission: Report Fraud — Report scams and learn how to protect yourself
• IdentityTheft.gov — Steps to take if your personal information has been compromised