International Students

The MSDS program welcomes students from around the world and is committed to supporting the unique needs of international scholars during their academic journey.

1 Visa and Immigration Information

The University’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provides guidance on:

  • Obtaining and maintaining F-1 or J-1 visa status
  • SEVIS requirements
  • Travel documentation
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) eligibility

Students are responsible for maintaining lawful immigration status throughout their studies.

2 Cultural and Campus Resources

UChicago offers resources to help international students adjust to life in Chicago, including:

  • Orientation programs and workshops
  • Language and writing support
  • Student cultural organizations and affinity groups
  • International student mixers and networking events

Students are encouraged to engage with the broader UChicago community to enhance their academic and cultural experience.

3 Full-Time Course Load and RCL exception

There is a full-time course load requirement for international students on student visas, unless the student applied for a Reduced-Course-Load (RCL) exception.

Among the different types of RCL, the Final Quarter RCL is the most common. Students should apply for RCL through OIA starting around two weeks before the start of the quarter they plan to graduate. You will need to download and fill out the Verification of Completion (VOC) form for the Director’s signature as well.

4 Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

International students on F-1 visas may be eligible for work authorization through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT, course-based for MSDS). These opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience related to their academic program. See sections on OIA website for current information.