Trine University International Booklet 2016 | Page 8

8
D/S: Duration of Status. Duration of status is defined as the time necessary to complete an educational
program and any authorized practical training plus the allotted grace period after completion of the
program. Contact the Office of International Services for an extension of D/S.
DSO/PDSO: Designated School Official/Principal DSO for F-1 students.
RO/ARO: Responsible Officer/Alternate RO for J-1 students.
USCIS: U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services.
USDHS: U.S. Department of Homeland Security
DOS: Department of State
POE: Port of Entry. This is where a person first enters the U.S. and meets a Border Patrol Officer.
SEVIS: Student Exchange Visitor Information System. SEVIS is an internet-based system that allows
schools and the USCIS to exchange information on international students and scholars in the U.S.
CPT: Curricular Practical Training. A training program that is integral to the program completion of most
degree programs. This training is available to all students in that major, listed in the course catalog with
the assigned number of credits, and contribute towards course completion. Usually, this is an internship
or co-op.
OPT: Optional Practical Training. OPT is a form of practical training that is usually taken after program
completion. OPT must be related to the student’s field of study.
Change of Level: Change of Educational Level. When a student completes a degree and decides to
continue his/her education at another degree level at the same college/university. (Example: a
bachelor’s graduate decides to pursue a master’s degree.)
COS: Change of Status. If a person changes his/her visa status from one class to another. (Example: F-2
to F-1 (or) H-4 to F-1.)
AT: Academic Training. Employment that is integral to a J-1 student’s academic program which may
occur during and/or after the completion of studies (internship, externship, co-op).
EAD: Employment Authorization Document (or card). This document is proof that a student’s OPT is
approved by USCIS and is allowed to work during the time the card is valid.
Dependent: A spouse and/or minor children.

Trine University promotes intellectual and personal development through professionally focused
and formative learning opportunities, preparing students to succeed, lead and serve.