Vacation Quarter

Summer Vacation Quarter

Summer is the default “approved” vacation quarter, and students do not need to request it through ISS.

Exception: Summer is not considered the default vacation quarter if it is the student’s final quarter or if the student notifies ISS that they would like to take a non-summer vacation quarter instead, before chosen vacation quarter.

Requirements During a Vacation Quarter

There are no academic enrollment requirements to maintain F-1 status while on approved vacation quarter. Students may:

  • Study without a minimum credit requirement.
  • Take more than one online course.
  • Choose not to enroll in coursework at all (while ensuring they can still complete their program by the end date listed on their I-20 and retain eligibility for a summer vacation quarter).
  • Remain in the United States or travel internationally (with a valid travel endorsement).
  • Enroll in a course that requires fieldwork or work experience and apply for either part-time or full-time CPT, if otherwise eligible.

Non-Summer Vacation

A non-summer vacation quarter is an approved vacation quarter taken during a term other than summer.

Students must:

  • Be enrolled full-time for three consecutive quarters (including Summer) before your chosen vacation quarter.
  • Follow all standard enrollment requirements when enrolled for summer, including online course requirements.
  • Plan to return the quarter after your vacation.
  • Have no holds preventing you from registering in the following quarter.
  • Request the Non-Summer Vacation before your chosen vacation quarter.
  • Consult with your academic advisor to make sure required courses are available in Summer.

Important: Program extensions will not be granted for students who take a non-summer vacation quarter without developing an academic plan with their academic advisor. Failure to enroll full-time following a non-summer vacation quarter may jeopardize a student’s immigration status. Students should work closely with their academic advisor to ensure required courses will be available and that their degree plan remains on track before taking a non-summer vacation quarter.

Need time off but not eligible for a vacation?

Email uwbintl@uw.edu and tell us what is happening. An international student advisor will work with you and explain your options.