Frequently Asked Questions
F-1 International Students FAQs
Q: I’m an F-1 student and have a question about my I-20, who can I contact?
A: Questions on your I-20 should be directed to Dr. Karina Mascorro, kmascorro@ric.edu
Q: As an F-1 student, how many credits am I required to enroll in to maintain status?
A: If you are an undergraduate student, you are required to enroll in a minimum of 12 credits, if you are a graduate student you are required to enroll in minimum of 9 credits. If this is your last semester at RIC and/or need to take a reduced course load, please contact Dr. Karina Mascorro at kmascorro@ric.edu to file a formal request.
Q: I’m an F-1 student experiencing severe economic hardship due to the Covid-19 pandemic, may I apply for off-campus employment to help pay my tuition and living expenses.
A: Yes, please contact Dr. Mascorro at kmascorro@ric.edu to formally request and file for off-campus employment.
Q: What is the latest information on F-1 international students and online classes?
A: Current international students in the U.S. can continue to take online classes in the fall if necessary due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Q: Will I be able to resume my on-campus employment in the Fall 2020?
A: Please contact your on-campus employer directly for more guidance.
Undocumented/DACAmented Students FAQs
Q: I’m and undocumented student living in Rhode Island impacted by Covid-10 with limited access to resources. Is there any financial aid assistance available to me?
A: Yes, the newly established weR1 Rhode Island relief fund. This fund is an initiative by Governor Raimondo to provide cash assistance to undocumented immigrants during the COVID-19 crisis. Those eligible will receive a $400 pre-paid no fee debit card. For more information visit DORCAS International.
Q: What’s the most up-to-date information on DACA?
A: On June 18, 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the way the Trump administration ended DACA was arbitrary and not justified, and therefore violated the Administrative Procedure Act. The Supreme Court's decision overruled the Trump administration's ending of DACA, meaning that DACA continues to be in effect. For more information visit the National Immigration Law Center.
Q: What is the DACA renewal fee?
A: The DACA renewal fee is currently $495
Q: Are undocumented students eligible for federal student aid?
A: Undocumented students, including DACA recipients, are not eligible for federal student aid, but may still be eligible for state and college aid, in addition to private scholarships. The Commissioner of Higher Education offers an Alternative Financial Aid application for students at CCRI, RIC and URI. You may contact the RI Office of Postsecondary Commissioner at aidapplication@riopc.edu with any additional questions you may have.
Q: Are there any other financial options for undocumented students at RIC?
A: RIC’s Financial Aid Office states “a limited number of need-based and merit-based programs are available for non-citizens.” Students need to call the office directly in these cases to make an appointment with Nancy Bessette, nbessette@ric.edu
Q: Does a parent’s immigration status affect the student’s eligibility for financial aid?
A: If a student’s parent does not have SSN, what does the student have to enter for that parent on the FAFSA? “000-00-0000"
Q: Can undocumented students use RIC’s Health Services even if the student does not carry the student health insurance?
A: Any student, undergraduate or graduate, living in the residence halls or a commuter, may use Health Services, regardless of insurance status.
Q: Can individuals in RI with undocumented/DACAmented status obtain a driver’s license?
A: Gov. Gina Raimondo on June 2018 signed a new law to allow some undocumented immigrants to qualify for Rhode Island drivers' licenses. The two bills, H 7982 Sub B and S 2678 Sub A, which are now Rhode Island state law, continue an Obama-era federal policy.
Q: What is Project ExCEL?
A: Project ExCEL is an academic initiative at RIC aiming to expand college access for talented bilingual students. For more information contact Laura Faria-Tancinco, lfariatancinco@ric.edu and visit Project ExCEL.
Q: What is Learning for Life and what resources do they offer?
A: The mission of Learning for Life (L4L) is to connect students to on and off campus resources and opportunities. Students served by L4L are empowered to overcome life obstacles on their journey to graduation such as, access to basic needs, managing competing priorities, and navigating the campus systems. L4L’s team of staff and trained peer mentors (Navigators) support and advocate for students. We build a community where students feel accepted, included, and safe. Join Now! Become a Scholar or find out more today.
