Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is there an International Student Hold on my record?
- How can I request a degree or enrollment verification?
- Where can I find information about CIP Codes for STEM OPT purposes?
- How can I update my preferred name?
- I have been assigned a Social Security Number. How can I get it updated in the system?
- How can I update my citizenship?
Why is there an International Student Hold on my record?
- The Office of the University Registrar places the International Student Hold on the records of all international students after the add/drop period ends each fall and spring semester.
- This is not a negative hold and does not mean you have done anything wrong. Its purpose is to prevent students from dropping below full-time enrollment without prior authorization from ISSS, which would be a status violation.
- The hold will not block you from registering for a future term; it only prevents dropping a class in the current term without ISSS approval. If you are not planning to drop a class, no action is required.
How can I request a degree or enrollment verification?
- Please complete the certification request form.
- Please see the certifications and verifications page for more information.
Where can I find information about CIP Codes for STEM OPT purposes?
- The Department of Homeland Security determines which STEM fields are eligible. A list of approved fields can be found at: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/eligible-cip-codes-for-the-stem-opt-extension.
- Check the field of study section of your I-20 to see if your program qualifies.
- If you have not yet received your I-20, you can find the CIP code that pertains to your degree program at Vanderbilt in the list maintained by the Office of the University Registrar. Visit the Facts and Figures page and click on the CIP Codes link.
- More information is available from the Office of International Students and Scholar Services.
How can I update my preferred name?
- Currently enrolled students who wish to request that a chosen or preferred name appear on the class roll should complete the Chosen or Preferred Name Request form.
- More information is available on the Name Update page.
I have been assigned a Social Security Number. How can I get it updated in the system?
- Please bring a copy of your signed SSN card or W-9 along with your valid Vanderbilt ID to the Office of the University Registrar at 2305 West End Avenue.
- Copies of the card/form and ID can also be sent via mail or fax.
How can I update my citizenship?
- Please complete the Citizenship Update Request form and submit it along with required documentation to the Office of the Universiy Registrar at 2305 West End Avenue.
- More information is available on the Citizenship Update page.