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12 Essential Terms for International Students in U.S. ESL Programs

ASC English Blogs
November 14, 2024•2 min read

Starting your ESL journey in the U.S. as an F-1 visa holder is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to key terms that’ll help you navigate the process and make the most of your experience.

  1. Enrollment: Officially signing up for classes each term. Full-time enrollment is required for visa compliance.

  2. DSO (Designated School Official): Your school’s go-to person for visa and immigration support. Reach out to them for any visa-related questions.

  3. SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System): The system tracking your status in the U.S. Notify your DSO of any personal or program changes to stay compliant.

  4. I-20 Form: An essential document for your visa, travel, and work authorization. Keep a current copy handy.

  5. Full-Time Status: Required weekly hours of study. Staying full-time keeps you in good standing.

  6. OPT (Optional Practical Training): Work authorization for up to 12 months after completing your studies, allowing you to gain professional experience.

  7. CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows work as part of your academic program, with DSO approval.

  8. Visa Compliance: Following all F-1 rules, like staying enrolled and following work restrictions, to maintain your status.

  9. Grace Period: A 60-day period post-graduation to transfer schools, apply for OPT, or depart the U.S.

  10. Visa Status: Your legal standing as an F-1 student in the U.S. Check with your DSO before making big changes to your plans.

  11. Extension: For extra time to complete studies, if needed. Get DSO approval to stay compliant.

  12. ESL Levels: Placement levels in programs, from beginner to advanced, to track your language progress.

Why ASC English?

For over 30 years, ASC English has helped students succeed in Boston, providing ESL programs and visa support in a welcoming, student-centered environment. Our Designated School Officials guide you every step of the way, ensuring you meet all requirements while advancing your English skills.

Ready to start your U.S. journey? Contact us to learn more about our programs and how we can support your success!

ESL terms F-1 visaASC English English language programs I-20 formvisa compliance international studentsdsocptoptSEVISU.S. student visa
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ASC English

Building upon a legacy of ten years of international ESL experience, ASC English has been supporting and providing educational services to international students in the Boston area since 1993. We have fostered a strong understanding of the needs of foreign individuals embarking on an education in the United States, and have developed a diverse range of services to help you through the challenges of succeeding in the American educational system. ASC English also runs a youth program for students grades 2-12. The A+ Program challenges young students while instilling valuable skills and confidence to take throughout life. We provide a fun, creative and supportive environment for students to discover a passion for learning. The US educational system is designed for the average student and limits many students‘ educational potential. We provide an intensive, advanced program that focuses on math and English to challenge students outside of their regular school curriculum. Our teachers are state certified and work in the best schools in the Boston area. We are dedicated to provide a challenging and stimulating academic environment aimed to supplement day-to-day classroom learning.

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key terms

12 Essential Terms for International Students in U.S. ESL Programs

ASC English Blogs
November 14, 2024•2 min read

Starting your ESL journey in the U.S. as an F-1 visa holder is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to key terms that’ll help you navigate the process and make the most of your experience.

  1. Enrollment: Officially signing up for classes each term. Full-time enrollment is required for visa compliance.

  2. DSO (Designated School Official): Your school’s go-to person for visa and immigration support. Reach out to them for any visa-related questions.

  3. SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System): The system tracking your status in the U.S. Notify your DSO of any personal or program changes to stay compliant.

  4. I-20 Form: An essential document for your visa, travel, and work authorization. Keep a current copy handy.

  5. Full-Time Status: Required weekly hours of study. Staying full-time keeps you in good standing.

  6. OPT (Optional Practical Training): Work authorization for up to 12 months after completing your studies, allowing you to gain professional experience.

  7. CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows work as part of your academic program, with DSO approval.

  8. Visa Compliance: Following all F-1 rules, like staying enrolled and following work restrictions, to maintain your status.

  9. Grace Period: A 60-day period post-graduation to transfer schools, apply for OPT, or depart the U.S.

  10. Visa Status: Your legal standing as an F-1 student in the U.S. Check with your DSO before making big changes to your plans.

  11. Extension: For extra time to complete studies, if needed. Get DSO approval to stay compliant.

  12. ESL Levels: Placement levels in programs, from beginner to advanced, to track your language progress.

Why ASC English?

For over 30 years, ASC English has helped students succeed in Boston, providing ESL programs and visa support in a welcoming, student-centered environment. Our Designated School Officials guide you every step of the way, ensuring you meet all requirements while advancing your English skills.

Ready to start your U.S. journey? Contact us to learn more about our programs and how we can support your success!

ESL terms F-1 visaASC English English language programs I-20 formvisa compliance international studentsdsocptoptSEVISU.S. student visa
blog author image

ASC English

Building upon a legacy of ten years of international ESL experience, ASC English has been supporting and providing educational services to international students in the Boston area since 1993. We have fostered a strong understanding of the needs of foreign individuals embarking on an education in the United States, and have developed a diverse range of services to help you through the challenges of succeeding in the American educational system. ASC English also runs a youth program for students grades 2-12. The A+ Program challenges young students while instilling valuable skills and confidence to take throughout life. We provide a fun, creative and supportive environment for students to discover a passion for learning. The US educational system is designed for the average student and limits many students‘ educational potential. We provide an intensive, advanced program that focuses on math and English to challenge students outside of their regular school curriculum. Our teachers are state certified and work in the best schools in the Boston area. We are dedicated to provide a challenging and stimulating academic environment aimed to supplement day-to-day classroom learning.

Back to Blog