Reduced Course Load (RCL)

Source: Title 8 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 214.2(f)(6)(iii)-(iv)

If you are having initial academic difficulties, a temporary illness or a medical condition, or need fewer than a full course load (12 units) in your last term to complete your program of study, you may qualify for a reduced course load (RCL). Below are the situations where an RCL is allowed:

Please remember: A student who drops below a full course of study (12 units) without prior approval from the International Student Center is out of status. ISC will subsequently terminate your I-20. Students who are out of status cannot study or stay in the U.S. legally and have lost all benefits associated with their F-1 visa. 

*A teacher drop is not considered approved unless the student received prior approval from ISC.

Types of Reduced Course Load (RCL):

Academic Difficulties 

Reasons for a Reduced Course Load Can only be used during the 1st year at PCC Can be used any time at PCC    Student must maintain at least 6 units      Student must study 12 units during the next semester     Can apply for a 2nd RCL again Other Criteria  
Improper course level placement Yes No Yes Yes No None           
Initial difficulty with reading requirements Yes No Yes  Yes No None
Initial difficulty with the English Language Yes No Yes Yes No None
Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods Yes No Yes  Yes No None

To Complete Course of Study in the Current Term

Reasons for a Reduced Course Load

Can   only be used during the 1st year at PCC

 Can be used any time at PCC Student must maintain at least 6 units Student must study 12 units during the next semester Can apply for a 2nd RCL again Other Criteria
Last semester at PCC graduating with an AA/AS degree No No No No No Students in their last semester who are going to graduate with an Associate degree can apply

Medical 

Reasons for a Reduced Course Load                            

 Can  only be used during the 1st year at PCC Can be used any time at PCC Student must maintain at least 6 units  Student must study 12 units during the next semester   Can apply for a 2nd RCL again     

Other Criteria                                 
Illness or Medical Condition  No Yes  No  Yes  Yes Student must submit an updated doctor's letter each time a medical RCL is requested. 

How to request for an Academic Reduced Course Load (RCL)?

  1. Download the Academic RCL form.
  2. Meet with an academic counselor. Academic counselor recommends and signs your RCL form
  3. Submit the signed RCL form to the International Student Center (ISC) via email at iso@pasadena.edu or in person in D-204
  4. Wait for approval from ISC
  5. Once approved, you may drop your classes
  6. If your request is denied, meet with an international advisor to discuss your options

How to request for a Medical Reduced Course Load (RCL)?

  1. Download the Medical RCL form.
  2. Bring the Medical RCL form and visit a medical doctor (licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy or licensed clinical psychologist)
  3. Receive appropriate medical documentation from a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy or licensed clinical psychologist
  4. Submit the Medical RCL form and doctor’s letter and/or other medical documents to the International Student Center (ISC) via email at iso@pasadena.edu or in person in D-204
  5. Wait for approval from ISC
  6. Once approved, you may drop your classes
  7. If your request is denied, meet with an international advisor to discuss your options

Medical RCL Reminders:

  • You must submit a new medical RCL request if you wish to use medical RCL for another academic semester
  • You cannot exceed 12 months aggregate of medical RCL per program level