This must be approved by the academic department. All other academic reasons for reducing the required course load must be approved in advance by the Foreign Student Advisor and the academic advisor. The academic advisor can recommend a lower course load. The academic advisor may recommend the student drop the course. The academic advisor can document this in a letter.
Health problems can also necessitate a reduced course load.
If a student is experiencing health problems, a doctor can recommend withdrawal or a reduced course load. Students should feel free to discuss any financial concerns with the foreign student advisor. Consult the foreign student advisor or your program sponsor if you have questions. Insurance All J-1 students and their dependents are required to have health insurance for the entire period they are in the U.S. in J status. There are certain minimum requirements which the insurance coverage must meet and students and their dependents who willfully disregard this requirement can have their legal status terminated.