F-1 visa regulations require students on an F-1 visa to enroll in and maintain enrollment in a minimum of 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester. At least 9 of these credit hours must be in face-to-face classes each semester for students enrolled in all college-level classes (courses that begin with the number 1 or higher). Students taking any ESOL or developmental education courses (courses that begin with a 0) cannot take any courses that are online, hybrid, teleconference, etc. Only courses that count towards a student's degree requirements can be used to fulfill the 12 credit hour requirement. Other rules pertaining to the F-1 visa program apply as outlined in the Maintaining Your F-1 Status form in addition to college policies and procedures that apply to all students.
F-1 students must have an academic plan on file with their SEVIS Designated School Official and also make reasonable academic progress towards completion. If there are any changes, see the SEVIS Designated School Official.
About Our Classes
We are a fairly large, diverse international community yet small enough to make you feel welcome in a friendly environment. Our classrooms are small with qualified faculty and staff dedicated to making your educational experience a value for your future.
Lone Star College is a comprehensive community college system of seven campuses to choose from: LSC-CyFair, LSC-Houston North, LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Montgomery, LSC-North Harris, LSC-Tomball and LSC-University Park.
Enrollment at any of our seven campuses involves four processes: admission, visa approval by the U.S. government, orientation and course registration.
Getting Started
You must have your LSC-approved medical insurance in place and all of your previous transcripts turned in to your DSO/ISA before you can register for classes. You must also see an adviser about assessment testing.
Before classes start, you must sign-up for international student orientation at the campus you will attend.
Campus Resources
The resources below can help you decide your program and courses, prepare you for talking to your DSO/ISA and assist you during your time at Lone Star College. Please note that as an international student only 3 of your 12 credits can be taken in an online course for the duration of your studies at Lone Star College. Please see your DSO/ISA before enrolling in any online courses.
For campus information, please view the Student Services Web site or contact your DSO/ISA. The maps page provides location information for each of the campuses.