Breaking a semester while on an F-1 student visa can have an impact on your visa status, although this depends on a few factors:
Full-Time Enrolment Requirement: F-1 visa owners must enroll full-time in their educational program. Generally, this involves completing a minimum number of credit hours (12 for undergraduates and 9 for graduate students).
Authorised Leave of Absence: If you required dropping a semester for legal reasons such as medical concerns or personal situations, you can ask a leave of absence from your educational institution. If acknowledged, this may assist you keep your F-1 status.
Consult Your Designated School Official (DSO): Before making any choices, it is essential to consult with your DSO. They can give advice personalized to your case and clarify the implications of dropping a semester on your immigration status.
Reinstatement: If you skip a semester without any legal authorization, you may be out of authority. In various circumstances, you may have to ask for reinstatement, which is not ensured.
To summarize, it is essential to engage with your institution and follow required processes to ensure you preserve your F-1 status while meeting your academic goals.
