Cal State LA welcomes international students from around the world who are pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) provides immigration advising and support throughout the F-1 student experience, from preparing for arrival through graduation and post-completion employment.
Whether you are considering Cal State LA, preparing to begin your studies, currently enrolled, or planning what comes next, use the resources below to find the information and support you need.
Important F-1 Immigration Update
Federal rules governing how F-1 students are admitted to and remain in the United States are changing. Current and prospective students should review the latest Cal State LA guidance before making decisions involving international travel, program extensions, transfers, employment, or changes to academic plans.
Review the latest F-1 and J-1 Duration of Status information
Where Are You in Your Cal State LA Journey?
Select the stage that best matches where you are now.
Prospective International Students
Learn about undergraduate and graduate admission requirements, application deadlines, required documents, academic programs, and the process for applying to Cal State LA.
Admitted F-1 Students
Review the Form I-20 process, immigration-document requirements, pre-arrival information, and important steps to complete after you are admitted.
Current F-1 Students
Find information about maintaining F-1 status, enrollment, advising, travel, employment, Forms & Requests, academic changes, and preparing for program completion.
Employment & Practical Training
Learn about on-campus employment, current CPT procedures, Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT, and other employment options available to eligible F-1 students.
How ISSO Supports You
ISSO provides immigration advising and services related to your F-1 student status. We can help you understand immigration requirements, evaluate how academic or personal decisions may affect your status, and process eligible immigration requests.
Common areas of support include:
- Maintaining F-1 status
- Full-time enrollment and Reduced Course Load
- Concurrent enrollment
- Form I-20 updates
- International travel and travel signatures
- On-campus employment
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- STEM OPT
- Program extensions
- SEVIS transfers
- Changes of academic program or degree level
- Program completion and post-graduation planning
If you are unsure whether an academic, employment, travel, or personal decision could affect your F-1 status, contact ISSO before taking action.
F-1 Student Quick Links
Maintaining F-1 Status
Enrollment, I-20 updates, academic changes, travel, transfers, and maintaining lawful status.
Forms & Requests
Find common ISSO requests and instructions for using the International Student Portal.
International Student Advising
Schedule an appointment or find advising information when you need help with an individual immigration question.
International Student Portal
Most ISSO immigration requests are submitted through the International Student Portal. Students can use the portal to submit requests, upload required documents, and access immigration documents issued by ISSO.
Your Cal State LA Experience Is More Than Immigration
Being an international student is about much more than maintaining F-1 status. Cal State LA offers opportunities to build relationships, join student organizations, participate in research, develop professionally, access academic support, take care of your health and well-being, and become part of the wider campus and Los Angeles community.
We encourage international students to take advantage of the full range of resources and opportunities available across the University.
Explore Get Connected at Cal State LA
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you cannot find the information you need online or your situation requires individual review, an ISSO advisor can help you understand your options and determine the appropriate next step.
Contact ISSO
International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO)
Library Palmer Wing, Room 4503
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 323-343-3170
Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.