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I-20 Requirements for Traveling Outside the United States

OIA is maintaining frequently updated information for international students regarding COVID-19 on our website here .

You can also keep informed about Indiana University and IUPUI's response to COVID-19 here .

While you are studying at IUPUI you may want to travel outside the United States, such as:

  • to return to your home country over summer break.
  • to explore another country on spring break.
  • to participate in a study abroad program.

But, before you pack your luggage, there are some steps you need to take to protect your F-1 status.

Get a Travel Signature on Your I-20

Before you leave the country, make sure you have a valid travel signature from an OIA advisor on page 3 of your I-20. You will not be able to re-enter the United States without one.

To get a travel signature, make a request through Atlas at least two weeks before you plan to travel, and bring your I-20 to OIA.

Travel signatures are valid for one calendar year or until the completion of your program, whichever comes first.

Make Sure Your I-20 Reflects Your Current Situation

If there have been any changes in your situation (for example, if you have changed your major, degree level, or source/s of financial support) that are not indicated on your current I-20, you will need to get a new one.

For changes in major or source/s of funding, request a travel signature through Atlas and note the changes in the “Note any Special Requests” section. You may be asked to provide updated financial documents.

For a change in degree level, you will need to complete the “New Program I-20” request in Atlas . However, you do not need to request a travel signature. When your new degree program request is approved, a new I-20 will be printed and signed for travel.

Timing can be critical for all of these changes, so start the process early. In most cases, updated financial documentation will be required to process your new I-20.

Make Sure Your I-20 Will Not Expire While You Are Out of the Country

Check the completion date in section 5 of your I-20 to see whether it is about to expire. If it expires while you are outside the U.S., you will not be able to re-enter the U.S.

If your I-20 is about to expire and you have not yet completed your program, you will need to apply for an I-20 extension through Atlas . You do not need to make a separate request for a travel signature. When your extension is approved, a new I-20 will be printed and signed for travel.

Updated financial documentation will be required to process your I-20 extension.

Make Sure Your Visa is Valid

Is the F-1 visa stamp in your passport valid beyond the date you plan to re-enter the United States? If not, you must apply for a new visa stamp while you are abroad.

Read about renewing your visa »

Travel to Countries Other Than Your Home Country

If you are traveling to a country other than your home country, you may need a visitor or transit visa. To find out, visit that country’s embassy website at Foreign Embassies of Washington, D.C. , and search for the consular section nearest you.

If you are traveling to the European Union, and your home country is not within the European Union, you may apply for the Schengen Visa , which permits travel within E.U. countries.

For the latest travel advisories, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website .

Traveling to or through Canada?

Canada now requires Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for many citizens of visa-exempt countries who enter or transit through Canada. This means that you may need to apply for authorization even if you are only changing flights in Canada.  Learn more on the Canadian Immigration & Citizenship website »

Short trips to Mexico, Canada, or islands adjacent to the United States (such as the Bahamas)

You may be eligible to  return  from Mexico, Canada and islands adjacent to the United States even if you have an expired visa. This is generally allowable for trips of 30 days or less. It is essential that you  read all eligibility criteria on the Immigration and Customs Enforcement website  before you decide to use this exception.

Don’t forget, you need a travel signature on your I-20 even for short trips to nearby countries!

Traveling after completing your program?

Learn more about travel while on OPT »

Wondering if you can travel during OPT?

Have you ever been arrested.

You may have noticed questions on visa applications regarding arrests and convictions. It isn't a pleasant topic to discuss, learn more here »

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Travel Information for F-1 Students

International Student Services

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Phone: 253-535-7264

Fax: 253-535-7483

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International Student Center Harstad Hall, Suite 112 Tacoma, WA 98447-0003

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While studying in the United States, you, as an international student holding F-1 visa, are allowed to travel internationally outside the U.S. and domestically within the U.S. It is important for you to acknowledge and comply to the U.S. immigration regulations, especially for traveling outside the country, in order to maintain your student status.

Travel Internationally outside the U.S.

This section provides basic information on immigration regulations for international students who seek to reenter to the U.S. after traveling internationally. This information applies for international students who hold F-1 visas. If you have F-2 visas or J visas, please consult with ISS.

Please note that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry (airport) has the authority to decide whether or not you are admissible to the U.S. This decision is based upon facts and circumstances presented at the time you apply to enter. Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) cannot guarantee that you will be admitted or readmitted to the United States.

Use the following information to prepare yourself before seeking admission to the U.S. Always consult with International Student Services (ISS) if you have any questions.

A. What documents do you need to reenter the U.S.?

B. How to renew F-1 visa?

C. automatic visa revalidation, d. travel to a third country, e. traveling for canadian students.

F. Travel while on Post-completion OPT

G. Extended Stay Outside the U.S.

For any questions or concerns regarding traveling for international students (F-1 and other visa types), please contact Heather Jacobson, Assistant Director of International Student Services.

Consulate General of Mexico 3123 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: 206-448-3526 Email: [email protected]

Adjacent Islands Saint Pierre, Miquelon, The Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, The Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, and other British, French, and Netherlands territory or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea.

A. What documents do you need to re-enter the U.S.?

If you have been out of the U.S. for less than 5 months, you will be asked to present the following documents to the CBP officer at the port of entry.

1. Passport valid for at least 6 months into the future:  A current passport valid for at least six months after the date of your re-entry. Some countries have an agreement with the U.S. allowing entry with a passport up to the date of expiration. To see if your country qualifies, please refer to this web page under the drop-down section titled “What if I have an expired passport or one that will expire in less than six months?”

2. Valid F-1 visa: You should know the expiration date and the number of allowed entries on your visa. Most visas have “M” (multiple) written under entries. This means that there is no limit on the number of entries for which you can use your visa. If your visa is expired or you have already used the number of entries you are allowed, you will need to renew your F-1 visa at the U.S. Consulate/Embassy Office in your home country in order to re-enter the U.S.  See the How to renew F-1 visa section for more details. If you are seeking entry to U.S. after traveling back from a contiguous country (Canada, Mexico) or adjacent islands for less than 30 days, you may be permitted to re-enter with an expired F-1 visa. See the Automatic Visa Revalidation section for more details.

3. SEVIS Form I-20, endorsed for travel by DSO: Your I-20 needs to be authorized for travel by the signature on the back page by a Designated School Official. You must plan ahead to get your I-20 signed before leaving the U.S.  Each signature authorizes travel for one year following the signature date. For students on Optional Practical Training (OPT), it is valid for 6 months. To receive a signature, please complete “ Travel Authorization Signature ” request form and turn your current I-20 in to the International Student Center front desk. It may take up to 5 business days for ISS to process your request, especially toward the end of semester, school break, and holiday.

4. Evidence of Financial Resources (optional but recommended): A bank statement, a letter from your sponsor or a scholarship award letter. The amount should cover one year of expenses that you are responsible as indicated on the first page of your I-20.

5. Evidence of Student Status (optional but recommended): Recent tuition receipts, transcripts or class schedules.

You should have contact information of the PLU International Student Services available for emergency situation in case the CBP officer needs to contact PLU to verify your student status. In that case, please contact:

Heather Jacobson Assistant Director of International Student Services, PDSO/ARO International Student Center | Harstad 112 Phone: 253-535-7122 PLU Campus Safety at 253-535-7441 is open 24 hours 7 days a week and can help you reach ISS staff.

  • If you have been out of U.S. for more than 5 months, please see the Extended Stays Outside the U.S. section .
  • If you have applied to Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), please be sure to read Traveling while on Post-Completion OPT section.

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If your F-1 student visa is expired while you are outside the U.S., and your travel does not qualify for Automatic Visa Revalidation , you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Consulate/ Embassy Office before re-entering the U.S. Entry visas can only be issued outside the U.S. We recommend that you apply for renewal in your home country. If you are unable to return to your home country and need to travel to a third country, you may apply for renewal here. However, it is extremely risky as if you are denied, you need to go directly back to your home country.

The visa renewal process varies for different countries. To learn about the application process of renewing your visa,  please visit the website of your local U.S. Embassies, Consulates and Diplomatic Missions . The renewal process may take a long time so plan ahead and make sure you have enough time to return to the U.S.

If you do not have plans to travel outside of the U.S., you are not required to renew your visa. F-1 visa has privilege of Duration of Status (D/S). As long as you maintain good F-1 student status, you may remain in the U.S. without renewing your visa after it expires.

If you are returning from Canada, Mexico or one of the adjacent islands* to the U.S. for fewer than 30 days, you may enter the U.S. with an expired F-1 visa. However, if you meet any one of following criteria, you will not be able to automatically revalidate your visa.

  • You applied for a new visa and it has not been issued
  • You applied for a new visa and were denied
  • You have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status
  • You have been out the United States for more than thirty days
  • You are a citizen of one of the following countries: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, and Syria.

If you wish to travel using Automatic Visa Revalidation benefit, please make sure to review this web page by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

*You can find the list of adjacent islands on this web page under the drop-down section titled “Which islands are defined as adjacent islands?”

When traveling to a third country (a country other than the U.S. or your home country), you are responsible for knowing whether or not you need an entry visa for that country. If you are going to study away through programs offered by Wang Center for Global and Community Engaged Education, please consult with your Study Away Advisor. The following brief information is about traveling to Canada and Mexico:

  • Applications and forms must be completed electronically, or submitted in-person at a visa application centre .
  • Applications will be returned to you by USPS mail only, not by courier.
  • Application will take at least 30 business days , so apply well in advance! To check on application processing times, visit this page .
  • ISS recommends students to get WA ID card first before applying for Canadian visa. This is because during the application process, students will not have access to passports for ID purpose. To apply for WA ID card, please fill out, “ Support Document for WA ID and Driver’s License Application .”
  • Multiple entry temporary resident visa may be valid for up to 10 years, or one month before your passport expires, whichever comes first. The fee is $100 in Canadian dollars. (The cost for the Electronic Travel Authorization, if you are eligible, is $7.)
  • Pay close attention to all the requirements, such as requirements for those with a U.S. mailing address (refer to the How to…Temporary Resident Visa link above).
  • Travel to Mexico:  Tourist cards or visas may be required for travel to Mexico. For more details, contact the Consulate General of Mexico in Seattle at 2132 Third Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 – Phone: (206) 448-3526 Fax: (206) 448-4771. [email protected]

Canadian citizens do not require an entry visa to enter the U.S. from Canada, but you are required to have an I-20 from PLU. All Canadian citizens are required to show a passport to enter the United States. Canadian citizens entering the U.S. to study should request F-1 status at the border and must always show the Form I-20 and supporting financial documentation to the immigration inspector at the port of entry. Be sure to check your I-20 before you leave the inspection area to ensure that it was properly annotated with F-1, D/S.

F. Travel while on Post-Completion OPT

In order to re-enter the U.S. after traveling internationally while you are on OPT, you need to present the same documents as current students to CBP officer at the port of entry. In addition, the following documentation will also be required.

  • If your OPT application is pending, you may return to the U.S. to do job search in the U.S. You should bring original Notice of Action (receipt notice) issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration office.
  • If your OPT application has been approved, you must bring your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card and the Letter from Employer confirming that you are employed or have been offered employment. This letter should be printed on employer’s letterhead, includes contact information of a supervisor, brief job description that is related to your field of study and commensurate with your level of education and the duration of employment should be within your OPT authorization period.

If you need to renew your visa please read How to renew F-1 Visa section. In addition to all documentation required by the U.S. Consulate/Embassy to renew F-1 visa, you will need to provide the EAD Card and a Letter from Employer as described above.

G. Extended Stays Outside the U.S. (stay outside of the U.S. for more than 5 months)

If you will be outside of the U.S. for more than 5 months, you will be required to get a new I-20 prior to returning to the U.S.

Immigration regulations state that a stay outside of U.S. within 5 months is considered a break in F-1 status. After an absence of more than five months, an F-1 student is no longer admissible to the U.S. as a “continuing student.” After five months the student must be issued a new “initial” I-20 and pay a new SEVIS fee. Please contact ISS for additional questions.

Travel Domestically within the U.S.

In general, special permission is not required for F-1 students to travel within the U.S.  from state to state, even to Alaska and Hawaii. We recommend that you carry your Washington ID card, passport, I-94 card, and I-20 with you whenever you travel outside Washington State.

References:  FAQ for F-Nonimmigrants: Entry and Exit By Student and Exchange Visitor Program, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.3.N Travel and Reentry Section, 3- F-1 Students Section, NAFSA Advisor’s Manual.

can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

SimpleCitizen

Can I travel abroad while I am in the United States on F1 status?

International students studying in the U.S. with F-1 status can travel outside of the U.S. However before you travel out of the country, there are some documents that you should check in order to determine your eligibility to return to the U.S. You must make sure that your I-20 form is still valid. You should also notify the DSO for the endorsement of your Form I-20. For your I-20 to be endorsed, you have to meet certain requirements. Evidence of your health insurance and current details of your financial support will be required. You are also required to provide evidence of your current student status, your passport, Form I-20, I-94, and other necessary immigration documents. Detailed information about your planned travel (such details as the mode of transportation, destination, reason for the travel, and duration of the travel) is also required. If you are traveling with your dependants who are F-2 visa holders, they will be also required to provide the above-mentioned documents. You should also ensure that your F-1 visa is still valid. If it has expired, then you have to apply for a new visa at the U.S. Embassy in the country you visited or your country of permanent residence or your country of origin.

However, if you are going to stay outside of the U.S. up to 5 months and above, it is advisable that you first discussed it with your counselor before you travel. This is because, before you will be allowed to re-enter the U.S. in order to continue with your studies, a new I-20 has to be issued to you. There are also special DHS rules guiding such travels. These rules have to be applied, as well.

For detailed information on the options available to you and for expert help on your immigration process, you should contact our office and speak with our experienced and professional attorney.

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can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

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I-20 requirements for traveling outside the U.S.

Whether you want to return to your home country over summer break, explore Europe on spring break, or participate in a study abroad program, chances are good that at some point during your time at Indiana University you will want to travel outside the United States.

But before you pack your luggage, there are some steps you need to take to protect your status.

Traveling after completing your program?

OIS cannot sign your I-20 for travel during your post-graduation grace period and you cannot re-enter in your F-1 status if you depart the United States.

Get a travel signature on your I-20

Before you leave the country, make sure you have a valid travel signature from an OIS advisor on page 2 of your I-20. You will not be able to re-enter the United States without one.

To get a travel signature, make a request through Atlas at least two weeks before you plan to travel.

Travel signatures are valid for one calendar year, or until the completion of your program, whichever comes first.

Description of the video:

Hi, I am José Mendez from the the Office of International Services. Today, I will be talking about travel signatures, the signature on page two of a continued-attendance I-20 is required by the US government to request entry into the US in F1 status. If you arrive to the US to start your program at IU, your initial or transfer-pending I-20 will not have a travel signature on page two. While you are enrolled in your program of study, the travel signature is valid for one year from the date it is signed, or the date you complete your program of study, whichever date comes first.

You need a travel signature even if you are just traveling across the border into Canada or Mexico. Read more below.

Make sure your I-20 reflects your current situation

If there have been any changes in your situation (for example, if you have changed your major, degree level, or source(s) of financial support) that are not indicated on your current I-20, you will need to get a new one.

For changes in major or source(s) of funding, request a travel signature through Atlas and note the changes in the “Notes” section.

For a change in degree level, you will need to complete the New Degree program request in Atlas . However, you do not need to request a travel signature. When your new degree program request is approved, a new I-20 will be printed and will be valid for travel.

Timing can be critical for all of these changes, so start the process early.

The following require your immediate attention:

  • Degree level changes
  • Graduate major changes
  • I-20 expiration

Making these changes can be very complicated. Please call 812-855-9086 to make an appointment with an advisor to discuss your plans before you begin the process.

In most cases, updated financial documentation will be required to process your new I-20.

Make sure your I-20 will not expire while you are out of the country

Check your completion date in section 5 of your I-20 to see whether it is about to expire. If it expires while you are outside the U.S., you will not be able to re-enter the U.S.

If your I-20 is about to expire and you have not yet completed your program, you will need to apply for an extension via Atlas . You do not need to request a travel signature. When your extension is approved, a new I-20 will be printed and signed for travel.

Updated financial documentation will be required to process your new I-20.

Travel and your F-1 visa

Is the F-1 U.S. visa stamp in your passport valid beyond the date you plan to re-enter the United States? If not, you must apply for a new visa while you are abroad. We strongly advise you to carry the following documents with you when applying for a new visa at a U.S. consulate:

  • Official Transcript issued by the registrar of IU
  • Enrollment Certificate issued by the registrar of IU
  • Valid I-20 issued and signed by OIS
  • Current financial documentation: documents indicating the source(s) and amount(s) of financial support for your study in the current academic year. This must match the information listed on your I-20.

Note: if you intend to apply for a new U.S. visa in Canada or Mexico and are not a resident of either country, please contact an advisor at the Office of International Services.

See also the U.S. Department of State’s website on information for nonimmigrants present in the United States, and visiting Canada or Mexico .

If you need to apply for a new U.S. visa, visit the Department of State’s U.S. embassies and consulates website for an updated list of visa application locations.

Visitors’ visas—for travel to countries other than your home country

If you are traveling to a country other than your home country, you may need a visitor’s or transit visa. To find out, visit that country’s embassy website at Foreign Embassies of Washington, D.C. , and search for the consular section nearest you.

If you are traveling to the European Union and your home country is not within the European Union, you may apply for the Schengen visa , which permits travel within E.U. countries.

For the latest travel advisories, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website .

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International student travel.

If you are a current F-1 student planning to travel abroad, be sure to plan ahead! While you are in F-1 status, you are permitted to leave the U.S. and re-enter in F-1 status provided you present the required documentation. If you intend to re-enter the U.S. and continue your full-time course of study, you must always be admitted to the U.S. in F-1 status. To travel outside the U.S. students in F-1 status need these documents to re-enter the U.S.:

  • passport valid for at least 6 months into the future
  • Canadian citizens do not need to apply for a student (F-1) visa; they may simply enter with the I-20 and valid passport. *Those entering the U.S. for the first time to study should request F-1 status at the border and must always show the Form I-20, valid passport, supporting financial documentation, admission letter, and SEVIS fee payment receipt to the immigration inspector at the port of entry.
  •  I-20 with a current travel endorsement signature on page 2, signed by a DSO within the last 12 months
  • Recommended : an unofficial transcript copy. Unofficial transcripts may be ordered on Garnet Gateway.
  • Recommended: Proof of funding (i.e. financial aid award, original bank statements, etc.)
  • Recommended: Proof of enrollment (i.e. admissions offer, letter from Registrar, etc.)

Note: This list only applies to return travel to the U.S.; you must check to see if you need a visa to enter another country (including transit visas). Check on the website of the embassy of the country you want to visit.

Tip: Read more about traveling for F-1 visa, including frequently asked questions on the Department of Homeland Security website.

Getting a Travel Signature Travel endorsement signatures cover all return travel to the U.S. for 12 months from the signature date (you do not need to get a new signature each time you travel). If you travel outside the U.S., to return you need a travel signature on your I-20 from a DSO in the Center for Global Education, signed in the last 12 months. Travel signatures are on page 2 of the I-20.

Note: Travel signatures for students on OPT  and STEM OPT are valid for 6 months only.

You must plan ahead to get your I- 20 signed before you leave the country. Request a travel endorsement of your I-20 at least five business days prior to your departure.

Automatic Visa Re-Validation Returning from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands You usually must have a valid visa to return to the U.S. from abroad. However, there is a special, limited provision called Automatic Visa Revalidation that applies to some travel. If you are in F-1 status and your F-1 visa is expired, you may still return to the U.S. from a trip to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean Islands even with an expired visa, if you meet all of these conditions:

  • your passport is valid you have a valid I-20 with a valid travel signature (if you are on OPT, the signature must be signed within the last 6 months )
  • you have your EAD (OPT) card (if you have graduated and been approved for OPT)
  • you have an expired F-1 visa
  •  you only go to Canada, Mexico, and/or the Caribbean islands (except Cuba) and do not stay outside the U.S. for more than 30 days
  • you do not apply for a new U.S. visa while abroad (otherwise you have to wait for it to be approved and use it to reenter)
  • you keep your I-94 record (printed from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home ) when you depart the U.S. ( retain it; don’t give it up at the border )
  • you are not a citizen of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, or Cuba

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands These are U.S. territories and thus an F-1 student does not need a visa to travel to those locations from within the U.S., or to return to the U.S. from those locations.

Obtaining a New F-1 Visa If your entry visa has expired and your travel does not qualify for visa revalidation , you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate before re-entering the U.S. Entry visas can only be issued outside the U.S. We recommend that you apply for the new visa in your home country; however, if you are unable to return to your home country and need to travel to a third country, it may be possible to apply for a visa there. We recommend in this case that you first contact the U.S. consulate in the country where you will be traveling to confirm that they will review your application. It is possible they would refuse to do so and ask you to travel to your home country. You should also be prepared for potential delays in visa issuance. A list of visa wait times is available on the Department of State website.

When you go to the consulate, you will need to bring your passport, I-20, financial documentation, and proof of full-time enrollment as well as any other documents requested by the consulate.

If you have ever overstayed your authorized stay (as noted on your I-94 document) in the U.S., you will be required to return to your home country to apply for a new entry visa.

Traveling Abroad While on OPT or STEM OPT The following information deals with F-1 students traveling after graduation and while on OPT. Please be aware that federal regulations, official policy, and practice is subject to change; this information is provided as a guide to assist you in planning your travel. The re-entry requirements while you are on OPT are similar to the requirements while you are a student; however, you will need to show some additional documentation. The Department of Homeland Security allows for re-entry while on OPT: “An F-1 student who has an unexpired EAD issued for post-completion practical training and who is otherwise admissible may return to the United States to resume employment after a period of temporary absence. The EAD must be used in combination with an I-20 endorsed for reentry by the DSO within the last six months.”

This means that you should be able to return to the U.S. after traveling while on OPT as long as you have the required documents:

  • a valid EAD (OPT card)
  • valid passport, valid at least 6 months into the future
  • Exception: If you are a Canadian citizen, you will not have a visa stamp in your passport.
  • OPT I-20 (showing an OPT status of Requested, Pending, or Approved on page 2) with a travel signature signed within the last 6 months
  • employer or job offer letter (highly recommended)
  • you have not been out of the U.S. for more than 5 months
  • you are coming back to resume employment
  • Recommended: A copy of your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt (printable from the I-901 fee website )

Note: If you have applied for OPT, but not yet received the EAD, travel is not recommended . If you do decide to travel outside the U.S., in addition to the above, you must also carry the following:

  • I-797C Notice of Action original receipt notice issued by the Potomac Service Center confirming your request for OPT.

IMPORTANT: Students who have an OPT STEM Extension application pending, should wait until their request is approved and have received the new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before traveling abroad.

Note: Failure to have the proper documentation with you can result in you being denied reentry into the US or you being granted temporary, conditional entry with a Form I-515A .

Summary The best-case scenario for traveling abroad while on OPT is that you have a valid passport, valid F-1 visa, valid EAD, and I-20 with a recent travel signature, and you are coming back to work on your OPT. It is recommended that you carry proof of employment or that you are actively seeking employment (e.g., job offer letter, invitation to an interview or career fair).

You will notice that your EAD says “Not valid for re-entry to the U.S.” on the bottom; this means that this card alone will not enable you to return to the U.S. You must also have the other documents listed above.

Of course, the only way to be 100% certain that you will be able to stay in the U.S. during your OPT is to not leave. However, we understand that this is not always practical or desirable. You should not be afraid to travel while on OPT but there are risks you have to be aware of:

  • Expired Visa If your F-1 visa is expired, you will need to apply for a new one at a U.S. embassy abroad before you can come back to the U.S. If you are only traveling to Canada, Mexico, or the adjacent Caribbean islands for 30 days or less, you may be able to re-enter the U.S. even with an expired F-1 visa.

Note: If you require a new entry visa while on OPT, be aware that there is no guarantee that you are eligible for one. You are required to establish non-immigrant intent every time you apply for a non-immigrant visa. This may be harder to establish when you are working rather than studying. If you have an expired F-1 entry visa, speak with a DSO before planning a trip abroad.

  • No Employment Upon Return If you have no employment to return to, an officer can legally refuse your entry to the U.S. If you need to travel abroad, we recommend that you carry with you proof that you are looking for employment (e.g., interview offers, registration to attend a career fair, etc.). Additionally, students who have exceeded the 90 days of unemployment are not considered  to be maintaining status and likely will be denied re-entry into the U.S.
  • Change of Status Filed /H-1B Pending /Green-card Application Pending If any of these apply, you need to be very careful about traveling abroad because doing so can void some of these applications and/or make you ineligible to return to the U.S. on your OPT. Talk to the immigration attorney or office that is assisting you with these applications before traveling abroad.
  • Expired EAD If your OPT period has expired and you are now in the 60-day grace period and you leave the U.S., you will need a different visa (e.g., tourist visa, H-1B work visa if you were approved) to return.

Extended Stays Outside the U.S.

If you leave the U.S. and do not register during the normal academic year for your program, your record in the SEVIS database will be terminated. If you want to return, refer to the instructions on F-1 Leave of Absence, Suspension or Withdrawal.

If you are registered full-time while outside the U.S., contact the DSO to verify that your F-1 status will remain valid.

Travel within the United States – In general, special permission is not required to travel within the U.S. We recommend that you carry your passport, I-94 , and I-20 with you whenever you travel outside the Lewiston area.

Tip: It’s a good idea to have a scan of your passport identification page on your phone.

Travel to a Third Country – When traveling to a third country (a country other than the U.S. or your home country), you are responsible for knowing whether you need an entry visa for that country . Travel to Canada and Mexico is common from the U.S.

Canadian visas – Persons from many countries are required to obtain a Canadian entry visa when entering Canada from the U.S. Visas may be obtained from the Canadian Consulate General in Boston . Consult the Canadian Consulate General for visa regulations concerning your country before making travel arrangements.

Mexican visas – Tourist cards or visas may be required for travel to Mexico. Information is available from the Boston Consulate General of Mexico.

CSUF Campus is closed for the holidays December 23, 2023 through January 1, 2024. We will resume responding to requests upon our return on January 2, 2024 at 8 a.m. We’ve moved to Pollak Library, PLN-120.

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Travel & Visa / Travel Outside the U.S.

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Traveling outside the U.S. for F or J students is permissible during scheduled university breaks or periods of academic or practical training. Students returning to the U.S. from a temporary break should ensure they have the required documents to reenter the country. In addition, if you are traveling to a country other than your home country, contact the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting to inquire about visa and entry requirements before you leave the United States. If you have any specific questions about your situation, schedule an appointment with an ISS Advisor .

General Documents Required for Travel and Re-Entry to the U.S.

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the reentry to the US
  • Valid, unexpired F or J Visa Check the number of entries permitted on your F or J visa to see if your visa may be used for an additional entry into the U.S. or if you will need to apply for a new visa for reentry.
  • Unexpired I-20 or DS-2019 with a valid travel signature (6 months or newer)
  • I-94 Admission/Departure Record
  • Proof of a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19. See additional information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . 

Additional Travel Guidelines

In addition to the general documents required above, navigate below for additional travel guidelines based on your situation.

Emergency travel during the semester (F-1 & J-1)  

Emergency travel during the semester International travel during the semester (not during a semester break) has potential risks. If you have an emergency that requires travel during the semester,   schedule an appointment with an ISS Advisor   to discuss your plans.

Travel after completion of studies (F-1 & J-1)  

Travel after completion of studies If you complete your academic program and do not apply for OPT (F-1 students) or Academic Training (J-1 students), you have a grace period after the expiration date on your I-20 or DS-2019 to prepare to depart the U.S.. F-1 students have a 60-day grace period and J-1 students have a 30-day grace period. If you plan to travel outside the U.S. during your grace period (including short trips to Canada and Mexico),   you cannot reenter the U.S. with your current I-20 or DS-2019 . Please keep this in mind when planning travel after completing your academic program.

Travel while OPT/STEM OPT is pending (F-1 only)  

Travel while OPT/STEM OPT is pending Traveling while your OPT/STEM OPT is pending is   potentially risky   because you will no longer be in your academic program and you would be attempting to reenter the U.S. without an approved Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

To minimize the risk, prepare the general documents required for reentry into the U.S. above and include these additional documents:

  • Form I-797 Receipt Notice
  • Offer letter from prospective employer

Travel while employed on approved OPT/STEM OPT (F-1 only)  

Travel while employed on approved OPT/STEM OPT Traveling while employed on approved OPT/STEM OPT is   relatively low risk . Prepare the general documents required for reentry into the U.S. above and include these additional documents:

  • Unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Letter from current or prospective employer If the international travel is for work purposes or is approved by the employer, have the employer explain this in a letter for use at the port of entry.

Travel while unemployed on approved OPT/STEM OPT (F-1 only)  

Travel while unemployed on approved OPT/STEM OPT Traveling internationally while unemployed on approved OPT/STEM OPT is   not encouraged   especially if you are approaching the maximum allowed days of unemployment. If you are in this situation and have an emergency that requires travel outside the U.S., please   schedule an appointment with an ISS Advisor   before traveling.

Travel during Academic Training (J-1 only)  

Travel during Academic Training If traveling internationally during Academic Training, make sure your DS-2019 shows “Amend a previous form: Academic Training Added” in the “Purpose of the Form” section and you have a   valid travel signature   that is 6 months or newer. In addition, prepare an employment offer letter from your employer on the official letterhead or business stationary.

Travel while SEVIS transfer is pending (F-1 only)  

Travel while SEVIS transfer is pending After studying at Cal State Fullerton or after your OPT/STEM OPT period, you may decide to study at another school or another academic program at CSUF. If you plan to travel internationally before the start of your new program,   schedule an appointment with an ISS advisor   to discuss your eligibility for transfer, SEVIS transfer deadlines, travel dates, and documents required for travel.

Travel to Mexico, Canada or an adjacent island with an expired visa (F-1 & J-1)  

You may be permitted to travel to Mexico, Canada or an adjacent island in Caribbean and reenter the U.S. with an expired visa if travel was less than 30 days and you have an unexpired I-20 or DS-2019 with travel signature, valid passport, and an unexpired I-94 Admission/Departure record. This process is called   Automatic Revalidation .

Adjacent islands include Saint Pierre, Miquelon, The Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, The Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, and Other British, French, and Netherlands territory or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea.   Travel to Cuba does not qualify for Automatic Revalidation .

You do not qualify for Automatic Revalidation if any of the following applies to you:

  • You applied for a new visa which has not yet been issued;
  • You applied for a new visa and was denied;
  • You have been outside of the United States for more than thirty days;
  • You have traveled to a country other than Canada, Mexico, or an adjacent island which is not included in the automatic revalidation provisions;
  • You are a national of a country on the   State Sponsors of Terrorism list , which includes North Korea, Iran, Syria, or Sudan.

If you want to determine if you qualify for Automatic Revalidation, please   schedule an appointment with an ISS Advisor   before making travel plans.

Dependent spouse or child travel (F-2 & J-2)  

Dependent spouse or child travel In general, dependent spouses or children who hold an F-2 or J-2 visa should accompany the primary F-1/J-1 visa holder for international travel. However, if this is not possible F-2 or J-2 dependents are permitted to travel independently.

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Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the current Annual Security Report (ASR) is available for viewing at: https://www.fullerton.edu/deanofstudents/clery . This report contains the current security and safety-related policy statements, emergency preparedness and evacuation information, crime prevention and sexual assault prevention information, and drug and alcohol prevention programming. The ASR also contains statistics of Clery Act crimes for California State University, Fullerton for the last three (3) calendar years. Paper copies are available upon request at the CSUF Police Department.

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can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

Travel On F-1 Status

F-1 students can travel while pursuing their degree in the United States. The requirements to travel within or outside the U.S. vary: a travel signature is required for any international travel but not required for travel within the U.S.

In the case of an emergency, students can leave the country before their request for a travel signature is processed and submit a request for a travel signature before returning. The Office of Global Engagement will be happy to electronically send a new Form I-20 with a travel signature to students before their return date so they can provide it to immigration officials at the airport.

Note that it is the student’s responsibility to have all the required documents to present to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the time of arrival in the U.S. Our office can never guarantee re-entry to the U.S. It is exclusively at CBP’s discretion to decide who is admitted into the country.

If you are traveling outside of the United States, you will need a signature from your international student advisor on page 2 of your Form I-20. This signature must be requested through MyGlobal Portal . The travel signature is valid for 12 months while you are pursuing your degree. Travel signatures are only valid for 6 months when on OPT or STEM OPT. Remember, you can leave the U.S. any time without a travel signature. You will need the signature only to return.

To be eligible for a travel signature, you must be in valid F-1 status (you must be registered for a full-time course load). When traveling abroad during school breaks (summer, spring, or winter breaks) you must bring the following documents with you:

  • A valid passport 
  • Travel signature on the second page of your Form I-20 
  • Valid F-1 visa (except Canadian citizens)
  • Documentation of your financial support (scholarship letter, bank statements, etc.)
  • Academic transcript from Montclair State

Emergencies:  if you depart in the middle of the fall or spring semester, due to an emergency, it is your responsibility to speak with your professors if your travel will cause you to miss class(es). It is up to your professors to decide how any potential absences will be handled.

You must have a valid F-1 visa to return to the U.S. If you changed your status to F-1 while inside the U.S., you will need to apply for an F-1 visa in your home country the first time you depart the U.S.

You must travel outside the U.S. for less than five months. If you are planning to take an academic leave of absence for one or more semesters, please contact the Office of Global Engagement for assistance.

According to the Code of Federal Regulations [8 C.F.R. § 214.2(f)(13)(ii)], “An F-1 student who has an unexpired EAD issued for post-completion practical training and who is otherwise admissible may return to the United States to resume employment after a period of temporary absence. The EAD must be used in combination with an I-20 ID endorsed for reentry by the DSO within the last six months.” Guidance on OPT travel from Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

To be eligible to return to the U.S.:

  • You must be in valid F-1 status.
  • You must have a valid F-1 visa on your passport to return to the U.S. If you changed your status to F-1 while inside the U.S., you will need to apply for an F-1 visa in your home country the first time you depart the U.S.
  • You must travel outside the U.S. for less than five months. If you are planning to engage in extended business travel overseas, please contact the Office of Global Engagement for assistance.
  • You must have a valid OPT job or have been unemployed for less than the unemployment limit (90 days for post-completion OPT, with an additional 60 days for STEM OPT). It is highly recommended that you do not seek to re-enter the U.S. unless you are employed or have a job offer in hand.

In addition to the documents listed under the “Travel before completing your studies” section above, you will need the following:

  • Travel signature on page 2 of your Form I-20. The signature must be less than six months old.
  • Offer letter/employment letter (this should be on letterhead with your employer’s signature) and other proof of employment, if available (like pay stubs). Information regarding travel on OPT without employment.
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. It is advisable not to leave the U.S. until your OPT is approved and you receive the EAD card (unless you are traveling and returning before your Form I-20’s program end date). If you are applying for post-completion OPT, please contact the Office of Global Engagement if you plan to travel during your grace period (after your program of study ends and before post-completion OPT begins). If you are applying for the STEM extension, it is not possible to travel after your post-completion OPT end date with a pending STEM extension application; you must wait until you receive the EAD.

Note: While travel outside the U.S. will not cancel a pending OPT application, unless it is an emergency, we highly recommend that students do not travel while their OPT is pending if their Form I-20 has expired. Students will not be able to re-enter with an expired I-20 until their OPT is approved. Additionally, if a Request for Further Evidence (RFE) is issued by USCIS, it will be sent to the U.S. address provided on the OPT application. RFEs require answering as soon as possible and if the student is abroad it will delay a timely response. 

If the OPT application is approved while the student is outside the U.S., he/she will be required to have their EAD in hand to re-enter the U.S. Note that USCIS cannot mail an EAD outside of the U.S. In this situation, someone will have to mail the EAD to the student’s home country, which may further complicate matters.

Travel signatures while on OPT are valid for only 6 months. CBP can deny re-retry into the county if the student has exceeded their unemployment day allowance.

Only U.S. consulates or embassies abroad can issue an F-1 visa. Consulates and embassies will require other documentation from students, in addition to the ones listed below: 

Current students:

  • Passport valid for at least six months into the future 
  • Form I-20 with a travel signature (travel signatures are valid for one year from the date your I-20 is signed)
  • Official transcript from Montclair State University
  • Class schedule (you can get it from the Registrar’s Office) for the current semester or if you are applying over a break (summer or winter), your class schedule for the following semester
  • Documentation of financial support for your first year of study and proof of renewable funds for the following years.
  • Affidavit of support from each of your financial sponsors. If you are being supported by the government of your home country, you do not need an affidavit. If your support comes entirely from Montclair State (graduate assistantship, stipend, etc.), you do not need an affidavit.
  • Bills from the last year showing that you’ve paid your tuition
  • Proof of permanent residence in your home country
  • SEVIS fee receipt (if you can’t find your original one, you will need to reprint your SEVIS fee receipt using the button “Check I-901 Status / Print Payment Confirmation”)

For students on post-completion or STEM OPT:

  • Valid passport for six months into the future
  • Latest Form I-20 which must include your current employer’s name and address and has a travel signature that will unexpired (less than six months old) when you return to the U.S.
  • Official transcript and copy of your diploma (certifies that you graduated; this document is recommended if you have received the diploma) from Montclair State
  • Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Proof of employment in the form of both an offer letter/employment verification letter (on company letterhead, signed by your supervisor or HR) and the last two pay stubs from your company (if you have a paid position)
  • SEVIS fee receipt (if you can’t find your old one, you will need to reprint your SEVIS fee receipt )

Additional resources for students

  • Information about getting the F-1 visa
  • Visa wait times
  • Guidelines for Applying for a Non-immigrant Visa

If you travel outside the U.S. while your H1B application is still pending, USCIS will consider that you abandoned your petition. Do not travel outside the U.S. before your H1B request is approved unless advised by your attorney to do so. 

You may generally travel overseas and seek readmission to the U.S. in F-1 status during a cap-gap period if:

  • Your H-1B petition and request for change of status have been approved by USCIS.
  • You are re-entering before your H-1B employment begins (before October 1). If you try to enter after October 1st, you will need an H-1B visa stamp in your passport.
  • You are otherwise admissible and have all proper documentation including a valid Form I-20 with a valid travel signature, unexpired passport, valid F-1 visa, letter of employment, and an I-797 Notice of Action as proof that your H1B is still pending.

Remember that it is ultimately up to CBP to determine if you can re-enter. We highly recommend consulting with the attorney before traveling.

  • If you are in the process of applying to USCIS for reinstatement to F-1 status.
  • If you have a pending change of status application.
  • If you plan to be absent for five months or longer; F-1 students are not able to maintain F-1 status if they are outside the U.S. for five months or more.
  • If you have a pending post-completion or STEM OPT application and the program end date on your Form I-20 (for post-completion) or your post-completion OPT end date (for STEM OPT) has passed.
  • If your employer has filed an H-1B petition or petition for Lawful Permanent Residence with USCIS on your behalf. Please consult your company’s immigration attorney about travel in this situation.

Automatic revalidation allows certain F, J, and H status holders to depart the U.S. and re-enter with an expired nonimmigrant visa stamp in their valid passport after visiting Canada, Mexico, or the “adjacent islands” for less than 30 days . The policies and regulations regarding Automatic Visa Revalidation from the Department of State and should be reviewed carefully before you travel; it is also highly recommended that you print out a copy of the Department of State’s guidance to carry with you when you travel.

According to the Department of State, a nonimmigrant who otherwise meets the requirements is NOT eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation is if s/he:

  • Applied for a new visa which has not yet been issued;
  • Applied for a new visa and was denied;
  • Has been outside of the United States for more than thirty days;
  • Has traveled to a country other than Canada, Mexico, or an adjacent island which is not included in the automatic revalidation provisions;
  • Is a national of a State Sponsor of Terrorism designated country, including Iran, Syria, and Sudan. Review more about State Sponsors of Terrorism .
  • Is in possession of an F student visa or J exchange visitor visa and has traveled to Cuba;
  • Is in possession of an M student visa and has traveled to a location outside the United States, other than Canada and Mexico.

You must have the following documents to re-enter the U.S. using Automatic Visa Revalidation:

  • Form I-94 or Print-Out of Electronic I-94 . Get the printout of your electronic I-94. If you have a paper I-94 card (the white card in your passport), you must be sure that the Customs officer/airline attendant does not take your I-94 upon your departure from the U.S. If you have an electronic I-94 and plan to depart the U.S. by plane but reenter by land, you should be sure that the Customs officer gives you a new I-94 number when reentering the U.S.
  • Immigration Documents/Other Documentation. You will need all of the documents listed above under the “Travel before completing your studies” or “Travel on post-completion/STEM OPT” sections except the valid visa; however, if you have renewed your passport and the expired visa is in your old passport, you must carry the passport that contains your expired visa.
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F-1 Students

On This Page:

What is F-1 “Status”?

Events that require you to update your i-20, full-time registration requirements and exceptions, making normal progress, dependents (spouse and children), change of address, graduation or completion of your program, loss of f-1 status.

It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the terms of your immigration status during your stay in the United States. A violation of the immigration regulations (for example, failure to maintain a full-time credit load or unauthorized employment) could jeopardize your F-1 status and legal stay in the U.S. Review this information carefully and contact ISS if you have questions.

“Status” is your nonresident category officially granted by an immigration official. To be in F-1 “status” means that you are legally in the U.S. and have benefits and restrictions specified in the immigration regulations for the F-1 visa category. You gain F-1 status either by entering the U.S. with F-1 documents or, for people already in the U.S. in a different status, by applying to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for a change of status.

Period of authorized stay

Your admission to the U.S. is for “duration of status,” meaning the length of your F-1 status.

F-1 status covers the period when:

  • You are a full-time registered student making normal progress toward your degree,
  • You are participating in optional practical training following completion of studies (if you apply for OPT),
  • You are in your 60-day “grace period” to prepare to depart the U.S. or change to another status; the grace period starts when you complete your degree or your OPT period.

Your length of authorized stay within the U.S. is not related to your F-1 visa expiration date. Your length of authorized stay depends on you following the F-1 rules.

Federal law requires you to carry “registration documents” at all times, including your I-20 and passport. We suggest that these documents be kept in a secure location such as a bank safe deposit box, and you should carry photocopies. However, if you are traveling outside the Seattle area you should carry the original documents with you. If you are traveling by air, train, bus, or ship, you may be required to produce these documents before boarding. Keep photocopies of all your documents in a separate location in the event your documents are lost or stolen.

Your passport must be valid at all times. Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place, such as a bank safe deposit box. Report a lost or stolen passport to the police because your government may require a police report before issuing a new passport. To renew or replace your passport, contact your country’s consulate in the U.S.

The visa is the stamp that the U.S. consular officer places on a page in your passport. The visa permits you to apply for admission into the U.S. as an F-1 student, and does not need to remain valid while you are in the U.S. The F-1 visa is specifically for entry into the U.S. After you are in the U.S., the F-1 visa might expire before your status expires, or your status might end before your visa expires.

If your visa expires while you are in the U.S., the next time you travel abroad you must obtain a new F-1 visa before returning to the U.S. Visas can only be obtained outside of the U.S. at a U.S. consulate. Exceptions to this rule exist for short trips to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean islands. For more information, visit the Travel and Visas section.

I-20 Certificate of Eligibility

Issued by UW, this document allows you to apply for an F-1 visa if you are outside the U.S., apply for F-1 status within the U.S., enter and reenter the U.S. in F-1 status, and prove your eligibility for various F-1 benefits. The I-20 indicates the institution in which you are permitted to study, your program of study, and the dates of eligibility. The I-20 must remain valid at all times. Allowing the I-20 to expire before you complete your academic program is a violation of F-1 status.

The I-20 is a printout from your Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record.

I-94 Arrival & Departure Record

The I-94 is the record of your entry to the U.S. Most I-94 records are now electronic and can be accessed online .

You might need a printout of your electronic I-94 information to apply for various benefits such as a Washington State ID card or a Social Security Number. You can obtain a printout of your I-94 record on the I-94 Website .

Many kinds of updates must be reported to the Department of Homeland Security through SEVIS and must be changed on your I-20. Notify ISS of the following changes and request an updated I-20. Keep every I-20 for your permanent record, even after you graduate. Do not discard the old ones, even from previous schools. ISS files are archived and destroyed after several years, so it is your responsibility to keep your I-20s in case you need them to apply for future immigration benefits.

Program Extension

If you are unable to complete your course of study before the completion date noted in item 5 on your I-20, you must request an extended I-20 before your current I-20 expires. For more information and instructions, review Program Extension information.

Changing Schools

You must register full-time at the UW since the UW issued your I-20 and oversees your SEVIS record. If you decide to transfer to another school, contact ISS prior to completing your final quarter at UW. For information about transferring your SEVIS record to the new school, visit School Transfer .

Change of Level

If you will complete your current program of study and plan to continue at the University of Washington in another program (for example, change from a Master’s degree program to a Ph.D. program), your I-20 must be updated. For more information, review Change of Level information.

Change of Major

If you are accepted into a major or if you change your major (for example, pre-major to History or History to Biology), you will be issued a new I-20.

Change of Funding

If there is a substantial change in the source or amount of your funding, report this change to ISS and a new I-20 will be issued to you. For example, if you receive a Research or Teaching Assistantship through your department, but your I-20 indicates that you use personal funds to pay for expenses, you should request a new I-20. For more information, review Change of Funding information.

Name Change

The name on your I-20 should match the name on your passport. If you change any part of your legal name—first/given name, middle name, or last/family name—on your passport, this change should be reflected on your I-20. Conversely, if you want a different name on your I-20, ISS will wait for you to change your passport first, before updating the I-20. Note that SEVIS is a separate database from the UW database. For instructions on changing your name in the UW database, visit: Name Change Policy .

In general, F-1 students must be registered full-time . This is defined as at least:

  • 12 credits each quarter for undergraduate students
  • 10 credits each quarter for graduate students

Only one online class may count towards the minimum credit amount each quarter.

Do not register for fewer than the required number of credits or withdraw from a course without first receiving permission from ISS. Part-time studies could jeopardize your stay in the U.S. and make you ineligible for F-1 benefits.

For more information and exceptions to full-time enrollment, review the Full-Time Enrollment and Exceptions information.

To maintain status, an F-1 student is also required to “make normal progress.” Making normal progress includes, but is not limited to, enrolling in the proper courses required for degree completion, maintaining satisfactory academic progress, and continually meeting all institutional enrollment requirements.

“Employment” is any work performed or services provided (including self-employment) in exchange for money or other benefit or compensation (for example, free room and board in exchange for babysitting). Unauthorized employment is taken very seriously by U.S. immigration officials; familiarize yourself with your F-1 employment eligibility options and always contact ISS before accepting any work that you are not sure is authorized.

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be eligible for F-2 dependent status. Contact ISS for procedures to invite a dependent to join you in the U.S. Immigration regulations do not permit F-2 dependents to be employed in the U.S. F-2 dependents can study part-time in an academic or vocational curriculum at a SEVP-certified school. F-2 dependents can also study in avocational or recreational programs–hobbies. F-2 dependents may enroll full-time in kindergarten through 12th grade.

An F-2 dependent who wants to pursue full-time study must obtain F-1 status to begin the full-time program.

For more information on adding an F-2 dependent, review the Spouses and Children webpage .

Any change of address must be reported to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) within 10 days. Update your local address through your MyUW account, and DHS will automatically be notified of the change. If you are on OPT, submit your address change through your MyISSS portal. Please note that your local US address must be your physical address, not a P.O. Box. To update your permanent foreign address, which must be a non-U.S. address, please submit a request through MyISSS.

The end of your academic program affects your F-1 status. After you graduate or complete your program, you have a 60-day grace period.

Review the ISS Final Quarter Checklist for more information on your options during your grace period, including eligibility for work authorization, travel, commencement , inviting family members to visit the U.S., and other related issues.

If you do not complete your educational objective (for example, if you withdraw from your program), you are not eligible for the 60-day grace period. Contact your ISS adviser in this situation.

If you violate the immigration regulations you will lose your F-1 status.

However, students may be able to regain valid F-1 status either through a reinstatement application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or through travel and reentry with a new I-20/new SEVIS record. The appropriate option will depend on your individual circumstances; review the reinstatement and reentry procedures and consult your ISS adviser as soon as possible for more information. A scheduled appointment with your ISS adviser is required because drop-in advising will not allow sufficient time to discuss this topic. In addition, we strongly recommend that students in this situation consult with an experienced immigration attorney.

Students seeking services can see our current  student services page , which includes virtual and in-person options. For J scholar and Employment-based services, please see our Contact Us page .

F-1 Immigration Regulations

It is the responsibility of each student to be familiar with the immigration requirements related to their status. Following the guidelines below will help you to avoid violation of your F-1 status.

Below are BIO's tips on properly maintaining your F-1 status to keep your immigration record safe and secure:

Basic Guidelines

  • Keep your passport valid for at least 6 months .   Contact your  home country's embassy in the U.S.  for information about renewing your passport validity.
  • Keep your local address updated.   Keep your local residential address current through  CalCentral . It must be updated every time you move.
  • Maintain U.S. Physical Presence. F-1 students cannot be outside of the US for 5 or more consectutive months, or the F/J status will end.
  • Maintain full-time enrollment.  You must be enrolled in  full-time units  each semester. For immigration purposes, in most cases, students must complete a minimum of 12 units per semester. Check your college (undergrads) or department (graduates) for minimum unit requirements.  ONLINE ENROLLMENT LIMITS: Students can count only 1 course or 3 units of on-line coursework towards the full time requirement. If the full time requirement for a semester can be satisfied with only 3 units or 1 single course, the full time requirement cannot be satisfied with online coursework alone. 
  • Get Berkeley International Office approval before a withdrawal from UC Berkeley .  If for some reason you must  reduce your enrollment  below full-time units or  withdraw  from your program, you are required to have approval from BIO before doing so.
  • Attend the school noted on your I-20. You must have a current, valid I-20/DS-2019 from the school you are attending full-time. If you transfer  from another school to UC Berkeley , or  from UC Berkeley to another school , make sure you follow the proper procedure to transfer.
  • Keep your I-20 valid at all times. Your  I-20  is only valid as long as you are a continuing, full-time student in your degree program, or on your approved post-completion training. If you graduate early, your I-20 or DS-2019 will be shortened to the last day of your final semester of enrollment. If your final semester is Summer you MUST be enrolled in Summer! You must notify BIO of your early completion in order to avoid overstaying. If you need more time to complete your program, apply for an  Extension of Program  BEFORE the current completion date on your I-20 or DS-2019.The completion date can be found on page one of the I-20 form under "Program End Date." You must also request a new I-20 if you change your major or your degree level, e.g. Ph.D. to Master's.
  • Get a travel endorsement. Before any international travel, review the  necessary travel documents  and obtain a travel signature from BIO. Travel endorsements are valid for one year during the program of study, but BIO recommends obtainining a new signature every 10 months.  Exception: Travel endorsements during F-1 post-completion OPT/STEM are only valid for 6 months.  REMINDER: F-1 students cannot be outside of the US for 5 or more consectutive months, or the F-1 status will end. 
  • the completion of the program of study
  • the completion date of any authorized post-completion  OPT , including STEM OPT and Cap Gap .
  • On-campus employment  -- Limit employment to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Employment on-campus may be full-time in the summer (if summer is not your first or last semester of enrollment) and vacation periods. No special work permit is required.
  • Off-campus employment  --Work permission must be approved through Berkeley International Office and the USCIS. See  Curricular Practical Training  and  Optional Practical Training . Be aware of employment authorization application procedures, eligibility, deadlines, and rules for maintaining status during post-completion employment  OPT , including  STEM OPT  and  Cap Gap ).

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F-1 travel & re-entry, general information.

Before leaving the United States to travel abroad, you should check your immigration documents. To reenter the U.S., all students in F-1 status will need to show the following documents to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official at the port of entry:

  • Valid Passport – valid at least 6 months from reentry date
  • Valid F-1 visa stamp – If F-1 visa is expired, you will need to renew it at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country before returning to the U.S.
  • SEVIS I-20 endorsed for travel by an ISSS advisor (signature must be obtained within the last 12 months for currently enrolled students and within the last 6 months for post-completion)

Additional documentation that is not required but recommended:

  • Evidence of financial support
  • Proof of student status (transcript or full-time enrollment letter, etc.)

Additional documentation required if traveling abroad while on Post-Completion OPT:

  • Unexpired EAD
  • Job offer letter/Proof of employment

Your passport should be valid at least six months beyond the date you plan to reenter the U.S. If you are from a country with a passport validity agreement you may be able to enter the U.S. as long as the passport is valid at least until the date of reentry.

Your F-1 visa must be valid at the time of reentry (there is no requirement that visa validity extend beyond this date). An exception to this, known as automatic visa revalidation , allows a student in F-1 status with an expired visa to travel to Canada, Mexico and most Caribbean nations, if for a period of less than 30 days, and to reenter the U.S. without having to renew the F-1 visa. Before making a trip to one of these locations with an expired visa, however, it is recommended that you contact ISSS for more information and advising in relation to your specific travel plans.

Your I-20 must bear a valid DSO signature (i.e. it must be signed by an ISSS advisor) on page 3. The signature must be less than 12 months old at the time of reentry; if traveling while on Post-Completion OPT, however, the signature must be less than six months old. Make sure that your I-20 reflects the academic plan (major/program of study) that you are pursuing. If you officially change your academic plan, you will need to be issued a new I-20 stating the new academic plan.

Always check the program completion date on your I-20 (under item 5). If the completion date is approaching and you do not expect to complete your program by that date, visit ISSS for information on requesting a program extension.

Visa renewal

If your F-1 visa stamp has expired and you are traveling to obtain a new visa from a U.S. consulate in your home country, you must request a new I-20 from ISSS.To request a new I-20:

  • Complete an ISSS Document Request Form.
  • Attach proof of current funding sources meeting the annual estimated costs of your program.

Acceptable financial documents include:

  • Official personal or sponsor’s bank letter (if using a sponsor, the sponsorship and/or relationship with you must be indicated in the bank letter) OR
  • If funded by a graduate assistantship or fellowship, an ISSS Scholarship/ Graduate Stipend Form completed and signed by the Dean of the School or College offering the award
  • Current scholarship or educational loan certification (from an international organization or home government)
  • If requesting a program extension, attach also an ISSS Academic Certification Form completed by your academic advisor.

All required forms and financial documents MUST be submitted at the time of request. A completed ISSS Document Request Form without required supporting documents will not be accepted. If all documentation is in order, the new I-20 will be processed in 4-5 business days. Please be advised to plan ahead and request your I-20 in a timely manner.

At the time of application for visa renewal, an F-1 student should have with him or her a valid passport, a recently issued I-20, proof of funding, current school transcripts (you may or may not be asked to present these) and any required forms, fees and photographs. Be advised that fees and procedures for visa renewal may vary by consulate and by country of citizenship of the applicant. Be sure to check for specific requirements with the embassy or local consulate at which you plan to apply. You can also visit the U.S. Department of State website for more information.

Students traveling abroad to restart F-1 Status

If you are currently out of status and plan to travel abroad, you are strongly urged to meet with an ISSS advisor for appropriate immigration advising. To reenter the U.S. in F-1 status, you will need a new I-20 issued for “Initial Attendance” under a new SEVIS ID number even if you may have a valid F-1 visa stamp in your passport. Follow the procedures detailed earlier in this section to request your new I-20. Once you receive the new I-20 you will have to pay the SEVIS (I-901) fee before using the I-20 for reentry. The new I-20 will have a program start date in the future; you will be required to reenter the U.S. within the 30 days before that program start date.

If you are restarting F-1 status in the summer semester (i.e. your I-20 is issued with a summer term program start date), you are required to enroll full-time for the summer term. For undergraduate students, this means enrollment in at least 12 credit hours and for graduate students, this means enrollment in at least 6 graduate-level credit hours.

Upon reentry, you must report to ISSS with your passport, I-20, and I-94 in order for ISSS to document and confirm restart of your F-1 status. After arrival in the U.S. you must retrieve your I-94 admission record and print a copy for yourself and for ISSS.

Students approved a change of status to F-1 in the U.S.

If you have changed your status to F-1 in the U.S. since your initial entry and now wish to travel abroad to apply for an initial F-1 visa stamp, you will need to request a new I-20.Please be reminded that a change of status approval does NOT guarantee an approval of a visa application at a U.S. consulate. Certain factors (e.g. length of stay in the U.S. from the date of change of status approval, ties to your home country, any family members living in the U.S.) will affect your visa application. It is recommended that you meet with an ISSS advisor before traveling abroad.

For additional important travel and reentry information visit the ISSS Travel Information .

Office of International Affairs

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Office of international affairs, academic affairs division, search form.

  • Meet Our Staff
  • Our Mission
  • International Alumni
  • International Ambassadors
  • Undergraduate Admissions
  • Undergraduate Student Scholarships
  • Graduate Admissions
  • Pre-Arrival Information
  • F-1 Visa Application Process
  • Orientation
  • Housing Accommodations
  • Immigration Documents
  • Forms for Prospective Students
  • Information for New Students
  • Global Partnerships
  • Obtaining a J-1 Visa
  • Forms for J-1 Exchange Visitors
  • Changing Visa Status from J-1
  • J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Exit Survey
  • Enrollment Verification & Letter Requests
  • Change of Address
  • F-1 Visa & Passport Renewal

Leaving the U.S.

  • Maintaining Status
  • Changing Visa Status
  • Practical Traning (CPT, OPT, STEM)
  • Income Taxes
  • Forms for Current Students
  • International Student Statistics
  • International Health Insurance
  • Application and Admission
  • Session Calendar & Deadlines
  • Information for Applicants
  • Extracurricular Activities
  • Program Information
  • Student Services
  • Registration for Current & Returning IEP Students
  • Current IEP Students

You are here

F-1 and J-1 students are allowed to travel during Summer and semester breaks (including spring break, fall break, and holidays). The Office of International Affairs will not approve travel for students during the academic semester (when classes are in session) unless it meets the criteria for emergency travel. Please note that there may be country specific travel restrictions in effect and in some places routine U.S. visa services have been suspended or delayed.

If your visa is expired, delay travel until you have booked an appointment with enough time to renew your visa.

Please continue to visit our COVID-19 page for information on travel restrictions and entry to the U.S.

Students who wish to travel during semester breaks must be enrolled full-time for the next semester, submit a Request for Travel Authorization and travel with the required documents listed here (minimum required documents).

Students who wish to renew their visas, should visit the U.S. Department of State's website here to determine visa wait times. Please note that airlines frequently cancel flights. Our staff cannot guarantee your return to the U.S.

It is important that students and scholars understand the risks of international travel. If you do decide to travel and are unable to reenter the U.S. you can:

  • lose your assistantship (Graduate students cannot hold assistantships while they are outside the U.S.)
  • lose scholarships and/or on-campus employment
  • be unable to complete your degree program (not all classes are offered remotely)
  • lose a semester of eligibility for OPT and/or CPT
  • owe rent even that you may be legally bound to pay even if you are abroad
  • be required to reapply for admission - Students who skip a major term (Spring or Fall), are required to apply for readmission.

Graduate students, especially those with assistantships, should carefully review all information on the Graduate School's website here .

If you decide travel, please carefully review the Study in the States link here to ensure that you travel with the appropriate documents.

Travel Authorizations: If an international student wishes to leave the U.S. and return, they must complete the Request for Travel Authorization , email it to [email protected] , and drop off their SEVIS I-20 to the DGE at least 8 days prior to their departure and no sooner than one month prior to their departure so that our staff can generate the travel authorization. The process takes 2-3 business days. Our office requires both a departure and return date for all students who travel. While travel authorizations are valid for 12 months, our office requests that you submit a Request for Travel Authorization to [email protected] each time you exit and plan to reenter the country. Please note that students must be registered full-time (9 hours graduate students and 12 hours undergraduate students) for the next semester in order to receive a travel authorization.

Withdrawal from UL Lafayette: If you will not return to the University, please fill out the Withdrawal Form and return it to our office or email it [email protected] .  Please make sure you have dropped your classes for the next semester.

International Alum - Marco Franco

International Alum - Marco Franco

UL Lafayette Intensive English Program (2010), B.S. Biology (2014), M.S. Biology (2017)

Current: Doctoral student in Environmental Science at Baylor University

Home Country: Guatemala

It is quite difficult to find the words to describe seven years of my life at UL. I was thrilled to find quite a diverse group of people when I arrived to not only the University but to Lafayette as well. This is something that, as an international student, is very valuable as the opportunity to learn from others is never-ending. Faculty, staff and classmates were fundamental for me to grow both as a student and as a person. During both my Bachelor and Master degrees, UL gave me the tools to be academically successful; I learned from remarkable mentors not only in my major field of study, but across many other disciplines. I was introduced to new ways of thinking, new perspectives and opportunities that brought me where I am today. Even though school kept me busy most of the time, I enjoyed many events at UL. I hardly missed the Ragin' Cajuns football games, the tailgates, International Week, and all the social activities where I met people that I now call friends. UL is a school like no other; I assure any student from any part of the world would have the best college experience. Even though my time in Lafayette and at UL came to an end, I feel extremely pleased to call both places my home, because home is not where you are born but where you are well received and where you make memories that last a lifetime.

International Alum - Elisabeth Kolb

International Alum - Elisabeth Kolb

B.S. Hospitality Management (2017)

Current: Lodging Management Internship, The Walt Disney Company

Home Country: Germany

"I chose to study at UL because I wanted to experience a new culture and travel. I could not have chosen a better university for my college experience. UL Lafayette and everyone here has helped me tremendously to grow professionally and as a person throughout my college career. My biggest influence during college was my academic advisor who was also my hospitality instructor for some classes. He has always encouraged me to achieve more than I ever though I could and has taught me what hospitality management is all about. Being a huge fan of Disney’s exceptional guest service himself, he has inspired me to participate in the Disney College program on CPT employment during my junior year and has guided me through the process. This internship with Disney has forever changed my life and I am beyond excited that I got accepted for a management internship with the Disney Company so that I can use my OPT in the best possible way after graduation. The University has been a huge part of the past four years of my life. Not only did I attend school here, I have also been a student worker for the Office of University Housing for 6 semesters. Everyone in the department has always been extremely encouraging and my supervisors are important mentors in my life. Starting off as a front desk worker, the department has offered me the opportunity to intern as a front desk supervisor my senior year which has been a huge learning experience for me. I have also been involved in several organizations and events on campus such as the University Program Council, which is a great way to learn about everything happening on campus, or several intramural sports teams where I made some great friends. UL offers so many different opportunities that I found it easy to connect to fellow students and get involved. I have also been active within the Department of Hospitality Management as a member and officer of the Ragin’ Hospitality Association, an organization that has helped me develop my leadership skills and that has also been a great networking opportunity. By being so involved within the college and university, I have been selected as the Outstanding Graduate of the College of Business, an honor of which I am extremely proud of. I believe that UL Lafayette is a great place to study for international students and I am a proud Ragin’ Cajun Alumni. The university offers great education with very diverse options of developing yourself socially and professionally through organizations, events, and networking opportunities and seminars. However, what I value the most about UL are the people; with the southern hospitality and Cajun spirit, I immediately felt welcome and I would not be where I am today without the support and help of the students, faculty, and staff of UL."

International Alum - Matilda Mostrom

International Alum - Matilda Mostrom

B.S. Microbiology (2017)

Current: Doctoral student in Biomedical Sciences at Tulane University

Home Country: Sweden

"I joined UL to combine studying microbiology and to waterski for the Ragin Cajun Waterski Team.  I never regretted my decision to join UL due to the friendly campus and invested professors. I think international students should join UL because they would receive a warm welcome by both students and by the professors. Personally, the food in Lafayette is enough to make you want to stay. My biochemistry teacher, Dr. Wu Xu, inspired me to never settle for less when it came to furthering my education because he believed in my abilities. For this, I will always be thankful when I look back at my time at UL. I would advise future students to not be shy and talk to your professors if you have an interest in working in their lab. I participated in both the Ragin Cajun Waterski Team, as well as, the Biology Society. What I loved the most about UL was the engaged professors and the number of times I got to take classes with the same friendly students. Geaux Cajuns!"

International Alum - Gustavo Venegas

International Alum - Gustavo Venegas

B.S. Hospitality Management (2016)

Current: Student at HRC Culinary Academy in Sofia, Bulgaria

Home Country: Honduras

"I decided to attend UL after I came visit for spring break. After spending a week in Lafayette and having witnessed the hospitality and having met some great people I knew I had to transfer and finish college there. UL is a very diverse university and very welcoming for international students. There are a lot of activities that unite the students, faculty and community. I acquired many professional skills by working with the Housing Department where I started at the front desk my first semester and then moved to the office, where I finally ended up doing my internship. Throughout my college years, three of my college professors from the Hospitality Program were my biggest influences and inspired me to achieve all my goals. Every time I had a concern, question or was in doubt, I came to them and they knew exactly what to say to get me back on track to achieving my goals. After graduation, I started working in a local restaurant where I was the General Manager. I am currently working towards finalizing my paperwork to be able to pursue my final educational goal, which is going to culinary school. I will be attending a school in a different country, but one thing I am taking with me is the southern hospitality that I was lucky enough to have felt while living in Lafayette. It has been so far one of my greatest experiences, where I got try some of the best food, and meet people from all over the world as well as locals who have in some way or another helped me grow professionally and intellectually. For me, it is a great honor to be a part of the Ragin' Cajun family."

International Alum - Qusay Al-Riyami

International Alum - Qusay Al-Riyami

B.S. Petroleum Engineering (2011)

Current: MLWD Senior Field Engineer at Schlumberger (Oman)

Home Country: Oman

"My experience in college did not only prepare me for my career, but it also prepared me for how to work/deal with my colleagues at work, "soft skills" as my father calls them. I gained skills that cannot be taught in courses. Through interactions with fellow students, professors, on campus co-workers, organizations (profit & non-profit), and neighbors, I earned a "degree" in people and social skills. I recall being involved as a chairperson in 8 different official organizations (off/on campus) at once! Through it I learned that virtually nothing is impossible, all I needed was to put my mind to it and maintain positive attitude."

International Alum - Xiangbo Li

International Alum - Xiangbo Li

Ph.D. Computer Science (2016)

Current: Software Engineering for Brightcove (Scottsdale, AZ)

Home Country: China

"People always ask, 'Why Louisiana? Why UL Lafayette?' Well, to be honest, I came to UL because of my advisor- Dr. Magdy Bayoumi, I liked his research areas, and of course also because he offered me a scholarship. I am so glad and even feel lucky that I came to Lafayette and UL because it totally changed my life. As my advisor told us at the first group meeting, 'If you just come to the U.S. for a degree, and then go back to your country, you will learn nothing. You come here also to learn the culture and spirit, and that will change your whole life.'  I couldn't agree more after staying in the U.S. for almost 7 years. Lafayette and UL is the kind of community that always welcome outsiders. If your English is not that good like me when I first got here, don't worry, people here are always willing to talk to you and make friends with you if you are open and brave enough to get out of your comfort zone. It's called southern hospitality and you will end up with a bunch of great friends here. Before I came to UL, I focused only on my studies and trying to get a good job after graduation. Thanks to UL, I begin to  realize that I can be more responsible, do something meaningful for this community and create some good memories here, and I did. My Ph.D. degree seemed less important to me once I graduated because I found something more important here, which will influence me for my whole life. Of course, Lafayette has became my second hometown, and I will always be a Ragin' Cajun no matter where I go.

International Alum - Marco Franco

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F-1 Five-Month Temporary Absence Rule

  • Knowledge Base
  • Immigration and Travel
  • Maintaining Status

(This does NOT apply for J-1 visa holders)

Under U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) regulations, a student in F-1 status is considered to be maintaining status without interruption as long as the student returns “to the United States from a temporary absence of five months or less…”  [8 CFR 214.2(f)(4)]   USDHS has recognized an exception to this rule for students pursuing a full course of study while engaged in-person at an authorized program of study abroad, as long as the student is physically at the college/university abroad and is considered part of the student’s U.S. degree program.

Therefore, to maintain uninterrupted F-1 status, a student would need be sure they are not outside the U.S. for a continuous period of 5 months or longer while pursuing their degree program. 

The major impact of an interruption in F-1 status is on eligibility for off-campus employment authorization.  Following the absence of longer than 5 months, upon a new entry to the U.S. a student would need to be enrolled full-time for a new “one full academic year” (a combination of a Fall + Spring semester) before they would regain eligibility for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) and, in most cases, F-1 Curricular Practical Training.  See guidance below about steps should a student be outside the U.S. longer than 5 months. 

The 5-month Temporary Absence Rule also applies to alumni on authorized F-1 OPT or STEM OPT Extension, therefore these alumni should be sure not to be outside the U.S. continually for a period of 5 months or longer or it would void the OPT or STEM OPT authorization. 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on May 11, 2023 that the COVID-19 flexibilities, including where exceptions were provided to the maximum number of online courses that can be pursued, and the exemption to the 5 month rule for individuals outside the U.S. prior to the start of the Fall 2020 term and unable to return to the U.S., will end with the start of the Fall 2023 term. Therefore, the Special Guidance Due to COVID-19: Updated 12/24/2022 provided below will end by the start of the Fall 2023 term and all regulations in place prior to March 2020 we return to be in effect.

[Special Guidance Due to COVID-19: Updated 12/24/2020]: Following the unofficial announcement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) on December 9, 2020 that USDHS Guidance for the Fall 2020 semester has been extended through the Spring 2021 semester, MIT reached out to USDHS to obtain any updated clarification concerning the suspension of the F-1 Five Month Temporary Absence Rule.  We, like many of our peers, believe now that the USDHS Guidance, and its reported extension, also suspends the 5-month Temporary Absence Rule for the Fall 2020 and the Spring 2021 semesters for certain students. However, no official written guidance has been provided by USDHS/SEVP, and therefore exceeding the five months outside the U.S. carries some risks, which we set out below. Our updated guidance for Fall 2020 and Spring 2021, based on the current available information, is:  

  • MIT considers you to have maintained your F-1 status during your time abroad;
  • MIT will authorize F-1 Curricular Practical Training and recommend F-1 Optional Practical Training for you (as long as all other CPT and OPT criteria are met) after return to the U.S.
  • You may return to the U.S. after a stay outside the U.S. for longer than 5 months (even after January 30, 2021); however, you may wish to eliminate the risks, and ensure uninterrupted eligibility for F-1 CPT or OPT, by returning within 5 months from the start of the Fall 2020 semester (no later than January 30, 2021). See specific risks outlined below.
  • Students in this category who return to the U.S. in Fall 2020 or Spring 2021 semester, and decide to again travel outside the U.S., then become subject to the F-1 5-month temporary absence rule (should re-enter the U.S. within 5 months from the new date of departure from the U.S.)
  • These students may choose to pursue Spring 2021 semester coursework full-time remotely from abroad, but unless USDHS issues new guidance you would not be maintaining F-1 status from abroad and would result in a break in eligibility for F-1 off-campus employment benefits.
  • Students on authorized periods of post-degree-completion F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or F-1 STEM Optional Practical Training Extension (STEM OPT) are subject to the 5-month Temporary Absence Rule from the date of departure from the U.S. (and should return to the U.S. within 5 months of date of departure from the U.S. to maintain status and OPT/STEM OPT employment authorization). 

Students who completed their degree program at MIT after March 9, 2020 and applied for OPT based on that degree, with the approval of OPT occurring while abroad, should return to the U.S. within 5 months of the start date of the OPT approval as listed on the Employment Authorization (EAD) card.  Students will need to show evidence of maintaining employment with a U.S.-based employer on OPT during that period abroad.

[NOTE:  Students on OPT or STEM OPT have separate limits on periods of unemployment (90 days of unemployment during the 12-month OPT period, plus an additional 60 days of unemployment time during 24-month STEM OPT period with any unused from the original 90 days during initial OPT) that may require return to the U.S. earlier than the 5-month period.] 

If a student is subject to the 5-month rule, and is unable to return to the U.S. within the 5-month period, it does not mean that the student cannot continue remote study from abroad.  It does mean there would be a potential break/interruption in their F-1 student visa status which can impact timing of eligibility for off-campus employment authorization (F-1 Curricular Practical Training or F-1 Optional Practical Training). 

The specific risks of remaining abroad beyond the normal 5-month period include the following:

  • USCIS may question eligibility for F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT), and may not process OPT applications, without written USDHS guidance confirming policy updates.
  • It remains unclear if the suspension of the 5-month temporary absence rule also applies to students who arrived to the U.S. from abroad to begin study at MIT in F-1 status AFTER March 9, 2020, and subsequently left the U.S., and the impact of their lack of consecutive semester in-person enrollment on eligibility for F-1 off-campus employment authorization. 

We will provide updates to the MIT Community as they become available.  If you are not able to travel within the 5 month period that applies to you, we will do our best to support you with your future travel plans and impact on your F-1 status.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your ISO Advisor . 

What if I am unable to return to the U.S. within the 5 months from departure? If a student is unable to return to the U.S. within the 5-month period, it does not mean that the student cannot continue remote study from abroad.  It does mean there would be a break/interruption in their F-1 student visa status which can impact timing of eligibility for off-campus employment authorization (F-1 Curricular Practical Training or F-1 Optional Practical Training). 

For students returning the U.S. beyond 5 months of absence, the following would need to occur:

  • MIT ISO would need to terminate the student’s SEVIS record for “Absent from country for five months”;
  • Student works with the MIT ISO to, when planning return to the U.S. to resume in-person full-time student status, create a new SEVIS record and a new Form I-20 for “Initial Attendance”;
  • Student will be required to pay a new SEVIS I-901 Fee for the new SEVIS Record/SEVIS ID Number;
  • After the student re-enters the U.S., the student would need to accumulate a new “one full academic year” – a combination of Fall + Spring semester (or Spring + Fall semester) — to regain eligibility for F-1 Curricular Practical Training or F-1 Optional Practical Training authorization.  Students are advised to plan accordingly.

If I leave the U.S. for 3 months and return in F-1 status, but then leave the U.S. again, can I only be outside the U.S. for 2 months on that second trip before being subject to the 5-Month Temporary Absence Rule? No.  The 5-month Temporary Absence Rule only applies if you are outside the U.S. for a continuous period of at least 5 months at one time. 

If you have any questions about travel and the F-1 Five-Month Temporary Absence Rule, please do not hesitate to contact your ISO Advisor . 

Also in this category:

17 ARTICLES

A Green Card application has been filed on my behalf, and the Form I-140 has been approved, can MIT continue to issue Form I-20/Form DS-2019 for me to maintain my F-1 or J-1 student status and authorized F-1/J-1 benefits?

Spring 2021 Registration Guidance for International First-Year Students

USDHS Guidance for Fall 2020 Continues for Spring 2021 – posted December 11, 2020

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Transfers for F-1 Students

This SEVP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is for designated school officials (DSOs) and provides information about how to transfer the record of an F-1 student from one Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school to another. The FAQ also provides information for DSOs when guiding students through the transfer process.

Background: F-1 Transfers

Background information.

An F-1 student may transfer between SEVP-certified schools. Regulations governing school transfers are in 8 CFR 214.2(f)(8) . The transfer process is a way to electronically move Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records and retain the same SEVIS identification (ID) number for the student.

The SEVIS transfer process does both of the following:

  • Sets a date on which responsibility for the student record transfers
  • Helps ensure that the transfer-in school updates and activates the student’s record

Once the DSO at the transfer-out school releases the record to the transfer-in school, the DSO at the transfer-in school can enter information into the Draft Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." If the record was in Active status at the transfer-out school, the DSO at the transfer-in school can create an Initial record from the Draft record. The DSO may print a Form I-20 at this time. The DSO must register the student and set the record into Active status within 30 days of the program start date.

If the record was in Terminated status at the time of the transfer, the transfer-in DSO must populate the fields available in Draft before clicking the submit button. The record will remain in Terminated status and the DSO must recommend reinstatement and print a reinstatement Form I-20. The student must immediately file an application for reinstatement with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) unless the DSO or SEVIS put the student into Terminated status erroneously. In this case, the DSO may call the SEVP Response Center to request a data fix.

A DSO at a SEVP-certified school must transfer the SEVIS records for any F-1 student accepted at another SEVP-certified school. SEVIS records are government property. A DSO may not refuse to transfer records for a student accepted by another SEVP-certified school for any reason; including financial or business reasons. Please note the SEVIS transfer process is a transfer of SEVIS records only . It does not obligate the school to transfer its own academic records. That is a matter of school policy.

Definitions

Initial admission – The first admission to the United States by an F-1 student using a given Student and Exchange Visitor Information System ID number.

New Initial student – An F-1 student with an Initial Student and Exchange Visitor Information System record who recently gained admission into the United States.

Program start date – For initial students, the start of an academic or vocational program of study listed on the Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." See 8 CFR 214.3(g)(iii)(C).

Transfer – The release of a student’s record in Student and Exchange Visitor Information System from one SEVP-certified school to another.

Transfer-out school – A school that holds the student record and starts the transfer process after the student notifies the designated school official of their wish to transfer.

Transfer-in school – The school that receives the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System record upon the transfer release date.

Transfer release date – The date the student's record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System is deactivated from the transfer-out school and appears at the transfer-in school.

Transfer-Out Schools

Dso guidance for students at transfer-out schools, if an f-1 student with an active sevis record wants to transfer to another school, what obligations does that student have.

The student must maintain F-1 status at your school by pursuing a full course of study or be engaged in post-completion optional practical training (OPT) until the transfer release date.

The student must be accepted by another SEVP-certified school. The student should bring you the following information:

  • Written confirmation of the acceptance
  • Contact information for the new school’s DSO
  • The SEVIS school code for the transfer-in school to ensure transfer to the correct school

Work with the student to choose a transfer release date. Base that date on the student’s academic needs, travel and work plans and projected program start date at the transfer-in school.

A transferring student must also contact the new DSO within 15 days of the program start date and register for classes. These students need to ensure that the DSO at the transfer-in school has all the information needed to update the SEVIS record, including any change of address. Advise the transferring student to contact the DSO at the transfer-in school. The DSO at the transfer-in school will be able to create a Form I-20 issued for the reason of transfer. Once a transfer student registers, the student should ask for a Form I-20 that shows the status as a continuing student and that the transfer is approved.

On the transfer release date, the responsibility for the student’s SEVIS record transfers to the DSO at the transfer-in school. You can no longer have access to the record to make changes or print a new Form I-20. Your school will have a Deactivated record for the student.

This Form I-20 will have the student’s new program start date. It is important that the student get a new valid Form I-20 as quickly as possible. The Form I-20 from your school will no longer be valid.

What are the choices for an F-1 student with a Terminated SEVIS record who wants to transfer to another school?

The student has three choices:

  • Apply to USCIS for reinstatement before transferring to another school. The student must continue to maintain a full course of study and otherwise abide by the regulations governing F-1 students while USCIS adjudicates the reinstatement. See the USCIS website for information on how to file for reinstatement. If USCIS denies the reinstatement application, the student must leave the United States immediately or risk being placed in removal proceedings at any time under §237(a)(C)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), as amended.  
  • Request that you transfer the Terminated record to the transfer-in school. You will need confirmation that the student received acceptance to the new school. On the transfer release date, the transfer-in DSO becomes responsible for the student’s SEVIS record, making the recommendation for reinstatement on the student’s SEVIS record, and issuing the student a new Form I-20 for the reason of reinstatement. The student will be responsible for properly filing for reinstatement with USCIS or submitting their new Form I-20 to USCIS if they have a pending reinstatement application at the time of the transfer. The student must intend to pursue a full course of study at the next available term or within five months, whichever is earlier, at the transfer-in school ( 8 CFR 214.2 (f)(16)(i)(C) ). The only exception is that if the student’s SEVIS record was erroneously Terminated , the transfer-in DSO may instead seek a data fix through the SEVP Response Center. The student must begin to attend the transfer-in school in the next available session even if USCIS has not yet adjudicated the application for reinstatement or if the SEVIS record has not been fixed yet. If USCIS denies the reinstatement application, the student must depart the United States.  
  • Get an Initial Form I-20 from the new school. The student must exit the United States and return as an initial entry in a new F-1 nonimmigrant status (initial admission). A student who chooses this option must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee . The student will also lose credit for any time accumulated toward qualification for benefits such as optional or curricular practical training (CPT). If the student’s visa is valid, the student does not need a new visa. If the student has a Terminated record because of a failure to maintain status or has violated any provision of the INA, as amended, the student may be denied re-entry to the United States under §212(a)(6)(G) of the INA, as amended.

If a new Initial F-1 student wants to transfer to another school, what must happen?

As with any Initial student, the student must report to your school by the program start date listed on the Form I-20 (in person or via e-mail, telephone and/or fax).

For any F-1 transfer, the student first must provide written verification of acceptance at another SEVP-certified school. The options depend on the program start date and when the student enters (or plans to enter) the United States.

  • If the student has received acceptance by another SEVP-certified school with a program start date fewer than 30 days before or after the student’s initial admission into the United States, you must transfer the student’s SEVIS record. Follow the directions in the next question for transferring an Initial record.
  • Enroll for a full course of study at the transfer-out school. Once the student’s record is Active , the student may request a transfer following the procedures above.
  • Withdraw acceptance to your school and then leave the United States and get a new Form I-20 from the DSO at the school the student wants to attend. After leaving the United States, the student must pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee for the new school. Since the student entered the United States and reported to a DSO at your school, you must make the record Active and then terminate it for authorized early withdrawal. The student must exit the United States within 15 days. Use this option only if you know the student plans to leave the United States.
  • The student does not choose one of the options above
  • The student fails to enroll for classes
  • You have terminated the student’s SEVIS record for Failure to Enroll

How do I transfer an Initial SEVIS record?

SEVIS functionality requires that you make the student’s record Active in SEVIS in order to release the record to the transfer-in school.

For the current session end date, use today’s date. For the next session start date, use tomorrow’s date. Select the Transfer Out function and use tomorrow’s date as the transfer release date. Write "Transfer of initial student not enrolled at this school" in the remarks.

You can make a student’s SEVIS record Active solely for the purpose of initiating a transfer. ICE does not (and will not) view this as registering the student. In this circumstance, the SEVIS record clearly indicates the student properly reported to your school and that you properly initiated an immediate transfer of the student’s SEVIS record. It does not indicate that the student enrolled in classes.

How long must a student with an Active SEVIS record wait between ending classes at a transfer-out school and starting classes at a transfer-in school?

This depends on the student’s circumstances. According to 8 CFR 214.2(f)(8)(ii)(C) , the DSO at the transfer-out school controls the student’s SEVIS record until the transfer release date.

  • If classes are in session, the student must attend classes and otherwise maintain status until the transfer release date.

On the transfer release date, the DSO at the transfer-in school controls the student’s SEVIS record. The student must begin classes at the transfer-in school at the next available term or within five months, whichever is sooner, unless taking an authorized break or vacation during that term.

  • If the next available term does not start within five months of the last date of school attendance or program completion date at the transfer-out school (whichever is earlier), the student must depart the United States until able to begin the new program. The DSO will not handle this as a transfer. The student will get a new SEVIS record and the DSO will send the student an Initial attendance Form I-20. The student must then pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for a new F-1 visa, if required.

How long must a new Initial student wait before attending classes at a new school?

A new Initial student can transfer only if the student has a program start date within 30 days of arrival in the United States. See the question above on transferring Initial students.

How long can a student with a Terminated SEVIS record wait between ending classes at a transfer-out school and starting classes at a transfer-in...

How long can a student with a Terminated SEVIS record wait between ending classes at a transfer-out school and starting classes at a transfer-in school?

A transfer student with a Terminated record must report to the DSO at the transfer-in school no later than 15 days before the program start date for the next available term. The student must take a full course of study even if USCIS has not adjudicated the reinstatement application.

The student may want to report on the record release date so that they can file a timely reinstatement application or obtain an updated Form I-20 if a reinstatement application has already been filed.

When does a student need to contact the DSO at the transfer-in school?

Advise the student to contact the DSO at the transfer-in school as soon as possible after the transfer release date. The student should be sure to do the following:

  • Ensure that the DSO has all information needed to update the SEVIS record
  • Request a copy of the new Form I-20 reflecting the transfer and the new program start date (Block 3 on the Form I-20 will show a pending transfer from the transfer-out school )

When does a student report to a new school?

The student must report to the school no later than 15 days before the program start date.

DSO Responsibilities at Transfer-Out Schools

One purpose of the transfer procedures is to keep the same SEVIS ID number for the student. When a student brings you proof of acceptance from another SEVP-certified school, you will need to coordinate with the student to establish a transfer release date.

The transfer-in school can only create a draft but cannot issue a Form I-20 until the transfer release date.

How do I set a transfer release date?

The transfer release date is the date that access to the student’s SEVIS record will shift from the DSO at the transfer-out school to the DSO at the transfer-in school. According to 8 CFR 214.2 (f)(8)(ii)(C), the transfer release date is "the current semester or session completion date, or the date of expected transfer if earlier than the established academic cycle." Among the considerations in setting the date are allowing the following:

  • Time to complete all study at the transfer-out school
  • Time for travel outside the United States, if applicable
  • Time for working during school vacation, if applicable

SEVIS will not allow you to set a transfer release date more than six months in the future.

See the section on special circumstances for more information that may impact the choice of an appropriate transfer release date.

What if the student’s transfer plans change before the release date?

Before the transfer release date, as the DSO from the transfer-out school, you can update SEVIS to reflect changes in the student’s plans. If the student decides not to transfer, cancel the transfer using the Cancel Transfer option on the student information screen. You can also cancel the transfer and re-enter transfer data to change the following:

  • The transfer-in school, if the student decides to go to a different school
  • The transfer release date, if the student decides to accelerate or postpone the transfer

Beginning on the transfer release date, the DSO at the transfer-out school has read only access to the student's SEVIS record. The record will be in Deactivated status. After this point, the transfer-out DSO can no longer make changes and will not be able to see changes made to the record by the transfer-in school. Only the DSO at the transfer-in school can make changes to the record.

How do I initiate the transfer process for the student in SEVIS?

Using the Transfer-Out screen in SEVIS, enter the transfer release date that you choose in consultation with the student. The SELECT button opens a second screen where you can type the name of the transfer-in school.

If you use wildcards and type in a partial name, you will see a list of all schools with names that meet the search criteria. For example, typing tex* will result in a list of all schools whose names start with tex and typing *tex* will return a list of all school with tex anywhere in the name. This list will show the school’s name in SEVIS and the school code.

Many schools have similar names, so ensure that the school code matches the one you got from the student. If necessary, call the transfer-in DSO and verify the number.

Convey the transfer information to the student. Be sure the student is aware of the transfer release date and how it affects his or her status.

Must a new Initial student report in person in order to transfer to another school?

No. The DSO can transfer the record based upon phone, fax, mail or e-mail notification. If the notification is by phone, you will need to have the student fax or e-mail the student’s acceptance to the new school and a copy of both sides of the student’s Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record," so you can verify the date of entry.

Follow the directions in the question If a new Initial F-1 student wants to transfer to another school, what must happen?

A new Initial student who does not ask for a transfer within 30 days of arrival in the United States must immediately report in person to the DSO at the school listed on the visa, if applicable.

DSOs are required to transfer the student’s SEVIS record upon request. Individual SEVP-certified schools may have additional transfer policies that students may have to follow.

Transfer-In Schools

Dso guidance for students at transfer-in schools, when must a transfer student report to a new school.

In most cases, a transfer student must report to the school within 15 days of the program start date. A new Initial student must report within 30 days of arrival in the United States.

When must a transfer student start classes at a new school?

The student must start attending classes within five months of the last day he or she attended classes or the next available session, whichever comes sooner. A new Initial student must have a program start date within 30 days of arrival in the United States.

However, if the next available term is the annual (or summer) vacation, the student may take a vacation if the student meets all of the following qualifications:

  • The student has already completed a full academic year.
  • Finishing classes at the transfer-out school,
  • The end of a period of authorized OPT

The student must be sure to coordinate all plans with the new DSO.

DSO Responsibilities at Transfer-In Schools

Must i accept a transferred record from another sevp-certified school.

No. You may return the transferred record to the transfer-out school if your school has not accepted the student in accordance with the rules in 8 CFR 214.3(k) . This acceptance includes confirming that your office of admissions has accepted the student for enrollment and that the student demonstrates financial responsibility as you would before creating any Form I-20.

How do I ensure that the DSO at the transfer-out school has the correct information for students we have accepted?

We recommend that you provide the student with a letter of acceptance and transfer information including the following:

  • Your school’s name and school code as shown in SEVIS,
  • A phone number and e-mail address where the student or the transfer-out DSO can contact you.

How does SEVIS show pending transfers?

Before the transfer release date, the student’s name will appear on the Students in Transfer Status list. The record will be in Draft status with printing as the only option.

It is a good idea to check this list regularly. Ensure that your school expects all students on the list by checking with your admissions or registrar’s office. Occasionally, a DSO accidentally transfers a student’s SEVIS record to the wrong school. Before the transfer release date, the DSO at the transfer-out school can cancel the transfer. Notify the DSO at the transfer-out school if you find a SEVIS record transferred to your school in error.

What happens on the transfer release date?

The Create I-20 option for that student will appear on the student’s SEVIS record on the transfer release date.

There is not a separate alert when a record becomes available in Draft , so you must continually monitor the Students in Transfer Status list.

What do I need to do to create/update the record for a transfer student?

When you choose the Create I-20 option, SEVIS populates the following fields in the student’s record with information from the transfer-out school:

  • Family Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Country of Birth
  • Country of Citizenship
  • *Individual Taxpayer ID
  • Foreign Address
  • *Visa Number and Visa Issuance Post Code
  • *Passport Number

* These fields are optional, and SEVIS may not populate them.

If the field is one that is populated by an interface with another government system (such as port of entry data, for example), you will only be able to update the field if it is blank.

You must enter the following information:

  • New program information (including new program start date and program end date)
  • Current financial information

There is a button to submit the form once you have updated the biographical and financial information.

Completing the transfer for a student who had an Active record at the transfer-out school

If the student’s record was Active at the transfer-out school, the student’s record will be in Initial status after you submit the Form I-20. You can print a Form I-20 that shows the student’s transfer is pending. The record will remain on the list of Students in Transfer Status until you activate the student’s record.

The student must report to your office within 15 days of the program start date. Activate the record at this time by entering the following:

  • Current session end date
  • Next session start date
  • Student’s local address
  • Remarks noting the completed transfer and the effective date

This action completes the transfer process and removes the student from the Students in Transfer Status list.

Note: SEVIS will automatically terminate the student’s SEVIS record if you do not complete the transfer process by activating the record. Complete the process within 30 days of the initial session start date.

If the student does not report to the school and enroll full-time, you must terminate the record with the reason of Transfer Student – No Show within 30 days of the initial session start date.

Completing the transfer for a student who had a Terminated record at the transfer-in school

If you are accepting a student whose SEVIS record was released to your school in Terminated status, you will get the record in Draft status. Upon submitting the record to the system, the student’s record will still be in Terminated status. (You are not required to accept a transfer of a Terminated SEVIS record). In most cases, you will need to recommend reinstatement, and the student must apply to USCIS for reinstatement unless they already have a pending application for reinstatement at the time of the transfer. The record will then be on both the list of students requesting reinstatement and the list of students in transfer status.

While USCIS adjudicates the reinstatement, the student has specific requirements:

  • Report no later than 15 days before the program start date, regardless of the status of the reinstatement request
  • Maintain a full course of study at your school
  • Otherwise abide by the regulations governing F-1 students

If USCIS approves the reinstatement prior to the student’s program start date, the student’s record will be in Initial status. Under the Requests and Authorizations section of the Student Information screen, it will show the approved reinstatement. Subsequently, the student’s name will drop off the list of students pending reinstatement. It will remain on the list of students in transfer status until you activate the student’s record. Activate the record as described above.

If USCIS approves the reinstatement after the program start date, the record will become Active . Under the Requests and Authorizations section of the Student Information screen, it will show that the reinstatement was approved. The student’s name will drop off both the list of students requesting reinstatement and the list of students in transfer status.

Please note, if the student’s SEVIS record was Terminated erroneously, reinstatement may not be necessary, and the DSO should contact the SEVP Response Center for assistance with a possible fix or correction to the SEVIS record.

What must I do if there is a student on my list of students in transfer status (before the transfer release date) but the student has not received...

What must I do if there is a student on my list of students in transfer status (before the transfer release date) but the student has not received acceptance to my school?

Contact the DSO from the transfer-out school and ask them to cancel the transfer. That DSO can then transfer the record to the correct school or take other appropriate action. If you need help contacting the student or the DSO at the transfer-out school, call the SEVP Response Center at 800-892-4829.

What must I do if a DSO has transferred a student’s SEVIS record to my school in error and the transfer release date has already passed?

You can transfer the record back to the correct school. Contact the DSO at the transfer-out school or the student and determine to which school the student actually plans to transfer. It is a good idea to coordinate with the DSO of the transfer-in school to ensure you have the correct school code. If you need assistance contacting the student or the transfer-out school, or if the student was on OPT, call the SEVP Response Center at 800-892-4829.

You can transfer the record for a continuing student while it is in Initial status. Note the transfer error in the remarks. Indicate an immediate transfer release date. After the transfer release date, you will see a Deactivated record for this student.

In addition, you can also transfer the record to the correct school even if a DSO terminated it for No Show or Failure to Enroll.

How can I tell from which school a DSO has transferred a student’s record to my school?

Open the student’s Draft record and look on the Current Request/Authorization Details page. This page lists the release date and the name and SEVIS code for the transfer-out school. If you need help contacting the transfer-out school, call the SEVP Response Center at 800-892-4829.

What must I do if SEVIS terminated my transfer student’s record after transfer to the incorrect school?

To reactivate the record, contact the SEVP Response Center at 800-892-4829 and ask to have a data fix for this record. Be sure to indicate that a DSO transferred the student’s record to another school by mistake, and the record terminated before a DSO could correctly transfer it back to your school.

Special Circumstances

How do plans for travel outside the united states impact a transfer.

If a student plans to travel outside the United States, time the transfer to take this into account. The student must re-enter the United States with a Form I-20 for the school that holds the Active or Initial record. Travel should meet the following requirements:

  • Started and completed before the transfer release date with a current Form I-20 from the transfer-out school
  • Started and completed after the transfer release date with Form I-20 from the transfer-in school

If the student leaves the United States before but cannot return until after the transfer release date, the DSO at the transfer-in school must send the student an updated Initial Form I-20 for re-entry into the United States.

A student who wants to travel outside the United States before or after the transfer release date and whose current SEVIS record is in Terminated status should obtain a new Form I-20 from the DSO at the transfer-in school and return to attend that school within 15 days of the program start date on the new Form I-20.

A student who is attending the transfer-in school with a reinstatement pending on the current SEVIS record must remember several important points.

Points to Remember

  • Should not travel outside the United States until USCIS adjudicates the reinstatement
  • If travel is unavoidable, DSO of transfer-in school should cancel reinstatement request on student’s SEVIS record and issue the student a new Form I-20 in order to return
  • Student forfeits all application fees paid to USCIS for reinstatement adjudication
  • A student with a valid visa does not typically need a new visa

What if, after the transfer release date, the student decides to transfer to a third school?

The student must work with the DSO at the current transfer-in school. The DSO at the original transfer-out school can no longer change the student’s record.

If the student’s record is still in Draft or Initial status, the DSO at the current transfer-in school can use the transfer procedure as described in the “What do I need to do to create/update the record for a transfer student” FAQ located on the Transfer-in Schools section.

Adding an additional transfer does not add to the maximum of five months allowed between transfers. A student must resume class attendance no later than five months after the last date of class attendance. See the question When must a transfer student start classes at a new school? for more information on the timing of transfers.

A new Initial student who has already transferred from the school will not be able to transfer again until they have started classes and has an Active SEVIS record. The only exception is for errors where the DSO inadvertently transferred the SEVIS record to the wrong school.

Can a student transfer with a pending reinstatement?

The answer depends on why the reinstatement was filed.

If the F-1 student was pursuing a full course of study at the school they were last authorized to attend, the student is eligible to transfer. The DSO should cancel the reinstatement request in SEVIS and transfer the terminated record as described in the Transfer-Out Schools section of this FAQ under “What are the choices for an F-1 student with a Terminated SEVIS record who wants to transfer to another school?”. The DSO at the transfer-in school must enter a reinstatement request in SEVIS. The student should then provide USCIS with an updated copy of their Form I-20. USCIS will not cancel a pending Form I-539 prior to adjudication; the Form I-539 will remain pending while the transfer is processed.

If the F-1 student was not pursuing a full course of study at the school they were last authorized to attend, the student must stay at the school that supported the reinstatement or withdraw the reinstatement application. If the student withdraws the reinstatement application, they can ask to have the terminated record transferred as described in the Transfer-Out Schools section of this FAQ under “What are the choices for an F-1 student with a Terminated SEVIS record who wants to transfer to another school?”.

When a student withdraws a pending reinstatement application, USCIS will not refund the filing fee.

Does time at the transfer-out school count towards the one full academic year provision for employment and practical training?

Yes, a transfer student can count the time spent studying at the transfer-out school toward any regulatory requirement that the student be "in F -1 status for a full academic year" in order to qualify for employment.

However, if a student leaves the United States and returns on a new Initial Form I-20 with new SEVIS ID (in lieu of an actual transfer in SEVIS), the student cannot count the time spent studying at a previous school.

What is the impact of a transfer on a student engaged in practical training?

A student authorized for CPT employment may continue authorized employment at the transfer-out school until the transfer release date. A student who wants to participate in CPT at the transfer-in school must receive authorization from the new DSO.

The student’s authorization for OPT ends on the transfer release date. Authorization for OPT is not transferable. If the student wants to complete OPT, the transfer-out school must set the release date for a date after the OPT ends. Students can request to transfer up until the end of the 60-day period following post-completion OPT, as long as the transfer release date will occur within five months or at the start of the next available session, whichever is sooner.

What is the impact of transfers on employed students?

On campus employment

Students can work on campus only at the school that controls their SEVIS record. With a DSO’s permission, students can work on campus at the transfer-out school until the transfer release date.

To work on campus at the transfer-in school, the student must consult with the DSO at the transfer-in school to ensure the work qualifies for on-campus employment. See the On-Campus Employment FAQ for more information . A student may begin employment at the transfer-in school after the transfer release date.

Off-campus employment

The permission to work off campus ends when a student transfers. To continue off-campus employment, the student must request the recommendation of the DSO from the transfer-in school and file a new application with USCIS.

What happens to a student who wants to transfer but cannot find an SEVP-certified school?

SEVP-certified schools must adhere to their institution’s standards for acceptance and for confirming financial ability.

  • If the student is eligible to remain at the transfer-out school, then the student should stay
  • Leave the United States
  • Apply to USCIS to change to another nonimmigrant status (if eligible)

Summer School Issues

I have a prospective initial student who wants to attend summer school at another sevp-certified school and then attend my school for the fall term....

I have a prospective Initial student who wants to attend summer school at another SEVP-certified school and then attend my school for the fall term. Who should issue the Form I-20?

It is important to note that a student with a new Initial SEVIS record must report first to the school listed on the Form I-20 and visa, if applicable.

Therefore, the DSO at the summer school should issue the Form I-20. You may provide the student with a letter explaining that your school has accepted the student and that the student intends to transfer to your school after completing summer school. Provide the necessary financial information. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate can use this information in conjunction with the information from the summer school to make a visa issuance decision.

After initial admission, the student must report to the summer school, as this is the school on the visa. The DSO at that school can then initiate a transfer to your school for the fall term.

Note that a new Initial student must enroll full-time for the student’s first term, even if it is a summer session.

Must I transfer the record of a continuing student who participates in a summer program or camp at another SEVP-certified school?

No. If the student is earning credit, treat this as a concurrent enrollment. If not, this is a recreational summer activity. While you do not have to report recreational activities in SEVIS, it is a good idea to make a remark in the student’s record and issue an updated Form I-20. Be sure to update the student’s address in SEVIS.

May a student at an SEVP-certified school participate in a summer camp or summer program that is not at an SEVP-certified school?

Yes. If the student has remained enrolled full-time during the regular academic year, this is a recreational summer break activity. However, the student cannot use any credits earned from a school that is not SEVP-certified to count toward full-time enrollment.

It is a good idea to make a remark in the student’s record and issue an updated Form I-20. Be sure to update the student’s address in SEVIS.

What should I do if an F-1 student who is transferring from our school (School A) to another school (School B) in the fall wants to take a summer...

What should I do if an F-1 student who is transferring from our school (School A) to another school (School B) in the fall wants to take a summer term at a third SEVP-certified school (School C)?

In this situation, DSOs have four options:

  • Transfer only – Transfer the student from school A to school C for the summer; transfer the student from school C to school B for the fall
  • Concurrent enrollment – If the study at school C can be construed as contributing to the program of study the student is enrolled in at school A, study at school C could be accepted as concurrent enrollment. The student would remain enrolled at school A throughout the summer while taking classes at school C; school C would have reporting responsibilities to school A. School A can use the end date of the summer session as the next session end date and schedule the transfer release date after the summer session. Use the remarks field in SEVIS to note the name of the summer school and that the student is attending a summer session there as concurrent enrollment.
  • Incident to status study, pending transfer. F-1 transfer students are considered to be maintaining status during the timeframe between completion of one program of study and the start a new program of study (does not apply if the timeframe exceeds 5 months). If an F-1 student is planning to take coursework at school C during this summer session, the study may be considered incident to status. In this instance a SEVIS transfer to school C for that summer session would not be required.
  • Incident to status study, summer vacation. If the student is entitled to summer vacation, he/she may study at school C incident to status during the summer. If this option is chosen, no action should be taken to initiate transfer from school A to school B until study at school C is completed.

In all of these situations, a student should provide the DSO at the school having jurisdiction over the student’s SEVIS record with any address changes or other material changes. Additionally, the DSO at the school having jurisdiction over the student’s SEVIS record should use the remarks field in SEVIS to clarify the student’s situation.

These options do not apply to F-1 students authorized for practical training unless they plan to terminate their practical training early.

Concerns About Transferring Students

Does allowing the transfer of a new initial student circumvent the approval process for a prospective f-1 student.

No. After entry, the student may decide to attend a different SEVP-certified school. As long as the student applies to another SEVP-certified school, receives proper acceptance and transfers within the deadlines given above, the student has not circumvented the approval process.

Does allowing the transfer of a new Initial student undermine the tracking and monitoring of F-1 students?

No. Transfer by a new Initial student does not extend the 30-day period after initial admission into the United States by which the student must report and enroll.

Does the transfer of a new Initial student make DSOs accountable for determinations over which they have no control?

No. After admission into the United States, a new Initial student can apply for a transfer to another SEVP-certified school. The DSO at the transfer-out school is not responsible for determining the suitability of the transfer-in school and is in no way required to approve the transfer (but must allow the transfer). The DSO at the transfer-out school is only responsible for determining that the other SEVP-certified school has accepted the student.

May a first term student transfer before the end of the semester?

Yes. If the student has been attending classes and otherwise maintaining status up to the time of request for transfer, the student may transfer. There is no requirement to complete a term before applying for a transfer.

Is it possible that a student could be school hopping and improperly prolonging a stay in the United States?

A new Initial student must have a program start date within 30 days of initial entry. The student cannot begin another transfer to prolong time between classes.

A continuing student must begin classes within five months of the last date of attendance or at the next available term, whichever is sooner, and cannot use another transfer to prolong the time between enrollments.

If a student requests multiple transfers without making academic progress, this could result in the student violating status. SEVP can detect this by an audit of a student's SEVIS record.

Is it possible that a student could be changing educational objective or course of study?

An F-1 student may change educational objective or course of study. The DSO at the transfer-in school is responsible for ensuring the student meets the requirements of the school. If you suspect a school is accepting unqualified students, report this to SEVP. We investigates all such reports, the outcome of which may affect a school’s SEVP certification.

Will this transfer process allow a student to drop out and shop around for another school?

No. A DSO should terminate a student’s SEVIS record for Unauthorized Withdrawal or Unauthorized Drop Below Full Course if the student withdraws from all classes before requesting a transfer. This student must either apply for reinstatement or depart the United States and return as a new Initial student with a new Form I-20.

Should regulations require a student to complete a course of study at the school listed on the visa?

The current regulations do not require an F-1 student to complete a course of study at the school listed on the visa. Transfers and changes in programs of study for an F-1 student do not require adjudication. A student may transfer to any SEVP-certified school with an F-1 program that will accept the student.

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Office of International Students and Scholars

F-1 enrollment requirements and exceptions.

Enrollment Requirements

International students in F-1 immigration status are required by immigration law to be enrolled full-time during the regular semesters (Fall and Spring).

Summer and Winter session enrollment is optional – it is not required.

Definition of Full-Time Enrollment

Graduate students-  Graduate students are required to enroll in a MINIMUM of 9 credits per semester.

Students with a full-time Graduate Assistantship on campus (GA, TA or RA) will have their GA position count as 5 credits, through enrollment in GRAD 601 . Thus, only a minimum of 4 additional credits is required.  Students in this situation should verify with their academic department that there is not a departmental minimum enrollment required.

Undergraduate students- Undergrads are required to enroll in a minimum of 12 credits per semester.

One class is typically 3 or 4 credits.

Online Coursework

Immigration regulations allow for one online class per semester towards your minimum requirement.  You could take additional online courses beyond your minimum enrollment as well, if you like.  For example, an Undergraduate could take one online course for 3 credits, 3 regular courses for 9 credits, and that’s the required 12.  Beyond the required 12, an additional online course could be taken.

Online courses can be taken as much as you like in summer or winter sessions, when enrollment is not required.

Possible Exceptions to Full-Time Enrollment Requirements

The immigration language for receiving permission to enroll less than full-time is a “Reduced Course Load (RCL)”.  Any RCL MUST be approved in advance with ISSS, before the semester begins in which you plan to be enrolled part-time.  In some cases, an RCL can be approved during the semester if you need to drop the class.  Please note these rules are very strict and the exceptions are not very accommodating – please plan appropriately!

1. Last Semester

  • Duration: Last semester before graduation only
  • Limitations:  Up to 2 semesters, if the student later discovers that their last semester will not actually be their last (requires an I-20 extension )
  • Enrollment Requirements:  Only required to enroll in credits remaining to graduate – at least 1 credit
  • Requirements to be approved : Your I-20 end date must show that this is your last semester.  Special approval is not required from ISSS – this RCL is automatic if your I-20 shows it is your last semester.

2. Medical Reduced Course Load (RCL) 

  • Duration:  Approved one semester at a time, can be granted until the deadline to drop classes during a semester
  • Limitations:  Up to 12 months cumulative during one degree program
  • Enrollment Requirements:  Enrollment can be part-time or not at all
  • Requirements to be approved:  You must provide a note from your doctor indicating their recommendation that you do not study full-time this semester based on a medical situation.

Mental Health conditions such as depression, anxiety or a wide range of conditions can be eligible for a Medical RCL with the recommendation of a licensed mental health practitioner, such as those available at the UMBC Counseling Center .  Please note, this kind of support from a professional counselor usually requires multiple visits and building a relationship with Center staff, so they can best help address these concerns.

Please note, unfortunately the immigration rules do not allow a healthy pregnancy or child birth to be considered for a Medical RCL, though a pregnancy or birth with complications can be considered.  Please see our section on Pregnancy and Childbirth in the US for more information.

There is a one-year limit for a student to use a Medical RCL throughout the entire degree program, so students with very serious conditions that are highly disruptive to their studies for a term beyond one year should consider relocating outside the US for their care, or applying to change their immigration status to B-2 status , which allows visitors to remain in the US specifically for medical treatment.

3. Academic Difficulty RCL

  • Duration:  One semester, can be granted until the deadline to drop classes during a semester
  • Limitations:  Available to use for one semester ONLY  during a degree program – cannot be used more than once!
  • Enrollment Requirements:   Must enroll in half of full-time enrollment (at least 5 credits for Graduate students, at least 6 credits for Undergraduate students)
  • Requirements to be approved : Email or letter from professor of class to be dropped or academic adviser, recommending that the student be allowed to drop the class for one of the following reasons:

Improper Course Placement –   This option is appropriate for students who were advised inappropriately and have taken classes out of sequence, or who were inappropriately allowed to take a course for which they did not have the prerequisite knowledge to be successful.  In other words, if the class assumes you have some specific background knowledge, and you do not, this might be an option to drop the class.

Unfamiliarity with US Teaching Methods:  This option is appropriate for students for whom the professor or adviser feel the lack of success is due to cultural differences in classroom expectations.  This is not often appropriate later in a student’s degree program.

First semester students only! – Initial Difficulty with English Language or Reading –  Students in their first semester in the US can also be eligible to drop credits during the semester if they find they are struggling significantly with the English language used in the classroom, or with the new teaching methods. Written support from the instructor is required, indicating the student’s difficulty.

Process to Apply: 

  • Login to your ISSS Portal 
  • Click on “Search Forms” in the top right corner of the page
  • Choose the relevant request – Reduced Course Load
  • Read the directions and complete all sections of the application
  • The application requires the support of your academic adviser.  Please follow the directions under the “Recommendations” section to invite your adviser to provide their support electronically.
  • Only click submit after you have uploaded all requirements.
  • ISSS advisors will review your application and contact you within 2-3 business days after your advisor recommendation is received.

Deadlines and Refund Information

UMBC has a final deadline to drop a class during each semester.   Please note these deadlines for each semester on the semester calendars managed by the Registrar’s Office .  ISSS does not have the ability to allow a student to drop a class after the deadline!

Students withdrawing from a class after registering or after attending need to be aware of the refund schedule.  Full refunds are only given for a very short period of time at the beginning of each semester, and decrease incrementally throughout the first 2 weeks of school.  By the end of the Schedule Adjustment period, no refund is given.  If you drop a class during the semester, you will not receive a refund.  Please refer to the refund schedule for semester-specific deadlines.

Taking courses at another school while also attending UMBC

You are welcome to take up to half of your credits at another school while attending UMBC and while your I-20 is at UMBC.  Please be sure to work carefully with your academic advisor to choose classes from the other school that will transfer back to UMBC and will count towards your general requirements or major.  This can only be up to half of your total credits during a fall or spring semester, but in summer or winter sessions you can take as many credits as you like at another school without enrolling at UMBC, since enrollment during those sessions is not required.

Please note that if you will take some credits at another school during a semester, you will need to provide ISSS with a copy of your course schedule.  We are required by law to verify your full-time enrollment each semester, and will need to be able to report how many credits you are taking at another school to make sure that, combined with your UMBC courses, you meet the minimum full-time requirements.

If while applying to the other school, you need a letter or email of permission from our office, please email [email protected] to let us know and we will be happy to provide the required permission.

Please be sure to work with your academic advisor to choose which courses you will take at another school, and to plan in advance to make sure they will transfer back to UMBC and be applied to your degree in the way you are hoping they will.

Taking a Semester Off

Students are not able to remain in the US in F-1 immigration status if they are not enrolled. Students that need to take a semester off should plan to leave the US until ready to return to their studies.  Students leaving the US for more than 5 months will need a new I-20 to return to the US; students outside the US for less than 5 months MAY be able to use the same I-20 to return to the US, working closely with ISSS.  Please contact ISSS at [email protected] to notify us if you are taking a semester off, and discuss how you can return to the US when you are ready.

Consequences

These enrollment requirements are mandatory to remain in good immigration status.  Failure to enroll as required will result in your F-1 immigration status being “terminated,” which means you will no longer have a legal immigration status in the US and are required to leave the country immediately.  Should you find yourself in this situation, please contact ISSS to learn what options you might have.

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Welcome to the International Student Hub — a place to learn about and connect with Northeastern's International community!

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Students Studying in The United States Working Outside of the U.S.

Do you have an opportunity to participate in an international co-op or internship outside of the U.S.? As an F-1 international student, it is important to understand how working outside the U.S. may impact your F-1 visa status and in what situations you may need a work authorization. This page will provide you with guidance on working abroad and travel considerations for departing and re-entering the U.S. during or after your international internship.

Employment Outside the U.S.

Students who are physically located outside of the U.S. while working for a non-U.S. employer do not require work authorization from OGS. Authorization must be given for work that physically takes place within the U.S. or takes place abroad but for U.S. employers. This may include students on Global Co-op.

NOTE: If you are returning to the U.S. while working abroad or on international co-op to perform work for a short period while you are physically located in the U.S. (such as a business trip or conference), this would require authorization. Please reach out to OGS for advising if you believe this is your situation.

Recommended Travel Documents

As always, when traveling abroad, it is important to make sure you are checking your I-20 before leaving the U.S. to see if you will need a new travel signature. Please fill out a  Travel Signature Request Form  or check our website for travel signature session times and dates.

While it is not required for students to bring any extra documentation, some students going on global co-op may want to bring a letter with them when re-entering the U.S., that explains why they have been outside of the country. Below is a sample letter you may modify and sign yourself to bring with you. In addition, OGS recommends you bring an official transcript with you to show your enrollment in classes while you are abroad.

Sample Letter »

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Office of International Students & Scholars

Change of status to f-1, introduction.

A student acquires F-1 status using the Form I-20, issued by the school they plan to attend, in one of two ways:

  • By entering the United States with the I-20 and an F-1 visa obtained at a U.S. consulate abroad (Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa requirement); or
  • By applying to USCIS for change of nonimmigrant status (if the student is already in the United States and cannot travel). In choosing the latter, you will not receive an F-1 visa, only F-1 status. This means that the first time you travel outside the U.S. while in F-1 status, you will have to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate in order to be able to return to the U.S.

A person in any non-immigrant status except C, D, K, or M (and in some cases J), and except those who entered the United States under the terms of the Visa Waiver Program, can apply for a change to F-1 status if they have maintained lawful non-immigrant status up to the time of application. Those with J status who are subject to 212(e) two-year home country physical requirement cannot change status in the U.S. unless a waiver has been granted. Non-immigrants in A, G, or NATO status must first complete Form I-566, and have it properly endorsed by the foreign mission to the U.S. and the Department of State.

Work With Your Adviser

Newly admitted students considering an application for a change of status must consult with their OISS Adviser before submitting the application. Your I-20 must be issued for change of status not initial entry. Change of Status is a complicated process which can take 11-13 months to process and in some cases can result in requests for further evidence or a denial. Note that not all visa statuses will allow you to start your studies while the application is pending. You will also be unable to begin on-campus employment, receive assistantships, or other funding until your F-1 status is approved. In order to submit the best possible application it is critical that you work with your OISS Adviser. 

Documentation Needed to Apply for Change of Status to F-1

  • A cover letter (one page or less) requesting the change of status from your current status to F-1. This letter should include a brief explanation as why you wish to change to F-1 status. You should also provide a checklist of the documentation you are including in your application.
  • USCIS Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status : Read all instructions carefully as they differ if you choose to file with a paper application or use the e-filing option. The application form will include a application fee of $370 ($ 420 for online, or $ 470 for paper filing, as of 4/1) plus an $85 biometric services fee for you and any dependents who are filing with you.
  • Evidence of financial support (i.e., bank statement, assistantship letter, etc.). If you have been offered an assistantship from the department and therefore will need to start your on-campus job under approved F-1 employment authorization, you may want to include additional funding evidence that you can support your living expenses until you are approved. 
  • Admission letter from the University.
  • Scan of the three pages of your Form I-20. Before scanning the I-20 be sure you sign in “Student Attestation” section on page 1 . 
  • Receipt indicating payment of the SEVIS fee . Please note that the $350 SEVIS fee is separate from the application fees noted above.
  • Documents showing that you are currently in lawful non-immigrant status. Examples depending on your current status can include  Form I-94 , visa stamp, DS-2019, Form I-20 for F-2 status, I-797, EAD card, etc. 
  • Biographical page of your passport, including the expiration date of your passport, and an explanation if the passport is expiring soon.
  • If changing status from an employment based visa, such as J-1 Researcher or H-1B you should include three recent paystubs, or other evidence of employment.
  • If previously in J status and subject to the 212(e) Two-Year Foreign Residency Requirement, include the I-612 proof of waiver approval.

We recommend that you save a copy of the application materials for your own record.

How to File

There two ways to submit this application to USCIS, online or by mail, and the process is different depending on the option you choose. OISS recommends that you apply online using the specific USCIS instructions on how to file electronically (e-file) found here. E-filing will allow you to pay the fees with a credit card, change your address as needed, upload updated documents, respond to requests for additional evidence, and receive your approval more quickly than by mail. If you choose to file by mail instead, please request additional details from your OISS Adviser.

If your change of status is pending with USCIS and you later decide to leave the U.S., your change of status request will be abandoned. You will need to get a new I-20 from OISS for your travel and visa application outside the U.S. so please let your OISS adviser know at least two weeks in advance of changing of your plans.

Important Things to Remember

The I-539 application is your personal application. While OISS Advisers may give general guidance on how to prepare a successful application, we are not permitted to give detailed legal advice. In rare cases that are very complex in nature you may need to pay an immigration attorney for a consultation. Please coordinate use of any attorney before making payments or commitments.

If you are currently in B1/B2 status:

Source: 8 CFR § 214.2(b)(7) and §248.1(c)

  • Individuals in B1/B2 status are prohibited from “enrolling in a course of study” until after USCIS approves their change of status application.

If you are currently in F-2 status:

Source: 8 CFR (Code of Federal Register) § 214.2(f)(15)(ii)

  • Individuals in F-2 status are eligible for part time study. Refer to F-2 Dependents for details. However, once your change of status to F-1 is approved, you are required to be enrolled full time. If your change of status has not been approved by the deadline for adding/dropping classes, your I-20 start date will be deferred until the start of the next semester and you must stay enrolled part time until the end of the current semester in order to maintain your F-2 status.

If you are currently in any other status (e.g., H, J, L, E, etc.):

  • If your current status allows full-time studies in the U.S., you may start classes before your change of status application is approved. However, you are not allowed employment under F-1 status until after your application is approved. For example, if you have an assistantship, you won’t be able to start it until after you receive your F-1 status. 

Program Start Date

If the I-539 application is not adjudicated by the original start date on the I-20, the program start date will have to be amended to a later date. This may result in receiving multiple updated I-20s depending on how long your application is pending, and each will have to be attached to your application as an update.

Traveling and Reentering the U.S. after Approval

If you acquire your F-1 status through a change of status process, remember that you will only receive F-1 status, not an F-1 visa. This means that the first time you travel outside the U.S. while in F-1 status, you will have to apply for F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate in order to be able to return to the U.S.

For further information about travel and re-entry and/or visa applications, refer to the U.S. Department of State website and OISS Travel Guidance .

If you would like to discuss the risks and benefits of your strategy for change of status, or have questions about your options, please contact your OISS adviser .

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F-1 Students: What is the Difference Between an Annual Vacation and a School Break?

Please note, this content may be outdated. Visit Study in the States'  Students , Schools and Blog pages for more timely information on this topic.

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As an F-1 international student, you must follow the rules and maintain your student status during your annual vacation or while on a school break.

Whether you are taking your annual vacation or it is a school break, if you would like to travel outside the United States, your first step should always be to talk with your designated school official (DSO). However, the other rules for annual vacation and school breaks are different.

Annual Vacation

You are eligible to take an annual vacation after completing an academic year at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, and once every year after that. Many students take annual vacation during the summer, and it usually lasts about as long as a semester or term of your school year.

You must be enrolled in a full course of study during all the terms of the school year other than your annual vacation. Talk to your DSO to learn when you are eligible for your annual vacation.

If you want to continue taking classes during the summer during your annual vacation, you do not need to enroll in a full course of study .

School Breaks

School breaks occur when your school closes for a short period of time, normally during a U.S. holiday or break from classes, such as spring or winter break. Typically, the time you spend not attending classes during a school break will not count as your annual vacation.

If you are traveling abroad during your annual vacation or a school break, your DSO will be able to verify that you are in “Active” status and help make sure you have the proper documentation before you leave the United States.

Need more information about annual vacation and school breaks? Learn how to maintain your status during your annual vacation or what to do during a school break on Study in the States.

Wayne State University

Office of international programs, oiss international students and scholars (oiss), travel outside the u.s..

If you choose to travel abroad during your time as a student or scholar at Wayne State University (WSU), you'll want to make re-entry to the U.S. as smooth as possible. Having the right documents with you will help.

Before making any travel plans that will take you outside the U.S., consult with your Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) advisor. You should also review any current travel warnings before you travel abroad. 

Short-term travel (less than 30 days)

Under automatic revalidation , if you are a visa holder in F, J, H or O status, or you have legally changed status in the U.S. , you can travel to Canada and/or Mexico and return to the U.S. within 30 days using an expired visa stamp in your passport.

Students and scholars in F and J status also can enter an adjacent island (islands in the Caribbean except Cuba) and re-enter the U.S. with an expired visa stamp.

Don't forget that you may need an entry visa to enter Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands, so check with any country you plan to visit to find out if you need a visa to enter.

You may not leave Canada, Mexico or an adjacent island to travel to another country and return to the U.S. with your expired visa stamp. All of your travel must remain within contiguous countries (or an adjacent island if you hold F or J status).

Do not apply for a visa of any kind at a U.S. embassy or consulate while visiting Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean, as you will not be able to re-enter the U.S. with an expired visa stamp if you have applied for a new visa, even if the application decision is pending.

Citizens of countries designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism must always have a valid visa to re-enter the U.S. You are not eligible for automatic revalidation.

Remember that you may still have to pass security or other clearances before being allowed to re-enter the U.S. That may require you to remain outside the U.S. for up to 120 additional businesses days, so it's important to understand what is needed before you can reenter the U.S.

Long-term travel (more than 30 days)

If your visa has expired and you will be out of the country for more than 30 days, you must a pply for a new U.S. entry visa to return. This may require an in-person interview or other delays, so make sure to give yourself ample time to apply for a new visa.

Required documents

  • Valid Form I-20 (F-1 and F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1 and J-2), properly endorsed for re-entry by OISS
  • Passport valid for at least six months from date of re-entry
  • Valid I-94 card
  • Proof of financial support for the length of your stay in the U.S.
  • Copies of your transcripts and current schedule of classes (if relevant)
  • F-1 students on OPT: Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and an official letter of offer
  • Visiting scholars: copy of invitation letter
  • Valid passport
  • Original I-797 Approval Notice
  • Letter of employment explaining you are employed by WSU in the same position as described in the H-1B or O-1 petition, and that you must enter the U.S. to continue that employment
  • WSU OneCard
  • Copy of your most recent pay stub
  • If H-1B: a copy of most recent Labor Condition Application (LCA)
  • If H-1B (if applicable): your original Form I-797 Approval Notice for a Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement (Form I-612). 
  • Valid Form DS-2019 (J-1 and J-2) endorsed for re-entry by OISS
  • Valid J-1 visa
  • Letter from your supervisor verifying continued employment/sponsorship
  • Valid H-1B or O-1 visa
  • Copy of I-129 petition
  • Two or three recent pay stubs
  • Letter from your supervisor confirming continued employment

Travel and H-1B portability

Under certain circumstances, if you hold H-1B status in the U.S. and WSU has properly filed an H-1B petition under the  H-1B portability provisions , you may travel abroad and apply for readmission to the U.S.

You should not travel until the H-1B portability petition by WSU is officially approved by USCIS.

  • Passport valid for more than six months from the date of your intended return
  • Valid H-1B visa obtained at a U.S. consulate overseas (annotated with the name of a previous H-1B employer)
  • Original I-797 Approval Notice for the previous H-1B employer
  • Original I-797 Receipt Notice issued to WSU for filing the H-1B portability petition
  • Proof of your employment with WSU, such as recently issued pay stubs and/or a recent letter from your supervisor confirming your employment
  • Photocopy of your I-94 issued at the time of your last entry
  • Photocopy of WSU's H-1B portability petition filed with the USCIS, which includes the Labor Condition Application

Scholars who have more than one employer

Your I-94 card must list all of your employers, not just WSU. Make sure to present relevant documents from all of your employers to immigration. If you aren't truthful and fail to fully disclose everywhere you are employed, you could lose your eligibility to work in the U.S

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  1. F1 Student Travel Outside Us

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  2. F1 Student Travel Outside Us

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  3. How Can F1 Students Apply for Travel Documents in the US

    can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

  4. F1 Student Travel Outside Us

    can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

  5. F-1 Student Visas

    can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

  6. Study in the USA

    can f 1 student travel outside u.s. during semester

COMMENTS

  1. Travel Outside the U.S.: F-1 Students: Visas & Employment ...

    OIA cannot sign your I-20 for travel during your post-graduation grace period, and you cannot re-enter in your F-1 status if you depart the United States. Learn more about travel while on OPT » Wondering if you can travel during OPT?

  2. Travel Information for F-1 Students

    Travel Domestically within the U.S. In general, special permission is not required for F-1 students to travel within the U.S. from state to state, even to Alaska and Hawaii. We recommend that you carry your Washington ID card, passport, I-94 card, and I-20 with you whenever you travel outside Washington State.

  3. Can I travel abroad while I am in the United States on F1 status?

    International students studying in the U.S. with F-1 status can travel outside of the U.S. However before you travel out of the country, there are some documents that you should check in order to determine your eligibility to return to the U.S. You must make sure that your I-20 form is still valid.

  4. Travel Outside the U.S.: F-1 Students: Visa & Immigration Status

    OIS cannot sign your I-20 for travel during your post-graduation grace period and you cannot re-enter in your F-1 status if you depart the United States. Get a travel signature on your I-20 Before you leave the country, make sure you have a valid travel signature from an OIS advisor on page 2 of your I-20.

  5. International Student Travel

    International Student Travel. If you are a current F-1 student planning to travel abroad, be sure to plan ahead! While you are in F-1 status, you are permitted to leave the U.S. and re-enter in F-1 status provided you present the required documentation. If you intend to re-enter the U.S. and continue your full-time course of study, you must ...

  6. PDF Guidance for Travel Outside the U.S.

    Travel Documents Required: F-1 visa students are permitted to travel outside the U.S. during the semester breaks and annual vacation (summer for credit students). Below is a list of documents required and recommended when traveling outside the U.S. I-20- the travel signature for the I-20 is valid for 12 months from the date of the signature. For

  7. Travel Outside the U.S.

    Traveling outside the U.S. for F or J students is permissible during scheduled university breaks or periods of academic or practical training. ... Emergency travel during the semester (F-1 & J-1 ... the expiration date on your I-20 or DS-2019 to prepare to depart the U.S.. F-1 students have a 60-day grace period and J-1 students have a 30-day ...

  8. Travel On F-1 Status

    F-1 students can travel while pursuing their degree in the United States. The requirements to travel within or outside the U.S. vary: a travel signature is required for any international travel but not required for travel within the U.S. In the case of an emergency, students can leave the country before their request for a travel signature is ...

  9. F-1 Students

    The F-1 visa is specifically for entry into the U.S. After you are in the U.S., the F-1 visa might expire before your status expires, or your status might end before your visa expires. If your visa expires while you are in the U.S., the next time you travel abroad you must obtain a new F-1 visa before returning to the U.S. Visas can only be ...

  10. Entering the U.S. (Continuing F-1 Students)

    Home; Entering the U.S. for All International Students; Entering the U.S. (Continuing F-1 Students) (Except for Canada, Mexico, or the adjacent islands for which different rules apply.). If you are a student holding an F-1 visa and you plan to travel abroad or to your home country, in order to be readmitted to the U.S. you need to present to the Immigration Officer, at the port of entry, the ...

  11. F-1 Immigration Regulations

    F-1 students cannot be outside of the US for 5 or more consectutive months, or the F/J status will end. Maintain full-time enrollment. You must be enrolled in full-time units each semester. For immigration purposes, in most cases, students must complete a minimum of 12 units per semester. Check your college (undergrads) or department (graduates ...

  12. Traveling as an International Student

    Form I-515A. As a student studying in the United States, you may be able to travel during your time of study. If you travel internationally, for annual vacation or during a school break, make sure you take the appropriate steps before you travel to ensure a smooth reentry into the United States.

  13. F-1 Travel & Re-entry

    Students approved a change of status to F-1 in the U.S. If you have changed your status to F-1 in the U.S. since your initial entry and now wish to travel abroad to apply for an initial F-1 visa stamp, you will need to request a new I-20.Please be reminded that a change of status approval does NOT guarantee an approval of a visa application at ...

  14. Leaving the U.S.

    F-1 and J-1 students are allowed to travel during Summer and semester breaks (including spring break, fall break, and holidays). The Office of International Affairs will not approve travel for students during the academic semester (when classes are in session) unless it meets the criteria for emergency travel. Please note that there may be country specific travel restrictions in effect and in ...

  15. Travel

    This section of the FAQ applies to continuing M-1 students who travel outside the United States for five months or less. An M-1 student should consult the designated school official (DSO) before traveling. Your DSO generally works in the international student office. You must have a current Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for ...

  16. F-1 Five-Month Temporary Absence Rule

    Students in this category who return to the U.S. in Fall 2020 or Spring 2021 semester, and decide to again travel outside the U.S., then become subject to the F-1 5-month temporary absence rule (should re-enter the U.S. within 5 months from the new date of departure from the U.S.) New students who (1) arrived in the U.S. to begin their program ...

  17. Transfers for F-1 Students

    F-1 transfer students are considered to be maintaining status during the timeframe between completion of one program of study and the start a new program of study (does not apply if the timeframe exceeds 5 months). If an F-1 student is planning to take coursework at school C during this summer session, the study may be considered incident to ...

  18. F-1 Enrollment Requirements and Exceptions

    Enrollment Requirements International students in F-1 immigration status are required by immigration law to be enrolled full-time during the regular semesters (Fall and Spring). Summer and Winter session enrollment is optional - it is not required. Definition of Full-Time Enrollment Graduate students- Graduate students are required to enroll in a MINIMUM of 9 credits per […]

  19. Working Outside of the U.S.

    As an F-1 international student, it is important to understand how working outside the U.S. may impact your F-1 visa status and in what situations you may need a work authorization. This page will provide you with guidance on working abroad and travel considerations for departing and re-entering the U.S. during or after your international ...

  20. Change of Status to F-1

    A student acquires F-1 status using the Form I-20, issued by the school they plan to attend, in one of two ways: By entering the United States with the I-20 and an F-1 visa obtained at a U.S. consulate abroad (Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa requirement); or. By applying to USCIS for change of nonimmigrant status (if the student is ...

  21. Departure from U.S. for F-1 Students

    Departure from U.S. for F-1 Students. The University is required to notify SEVIS when a student is no longer enrolled at the institution. SEVIS requires a reason any time a student's record is terminated, and it is important that we provide the correct reason (for example, departed the U.S. or changed status). This stated reason will be a ...

  22. F-1 Students: What is the Difference Between an Annual Vacation and a

    As an F-1 international student, you must follow the rules and maintain your student status during your annual vacation or while on a school break.Whether you are taking your annual vacation or it is a school break, if you would like to travel outside the United States, your first step should always be to talk with your designated school official (DSO).

  23. Travel outside the U.S.

    Short-term travel (less than 30 days) Under automatic revalidation, if you are a visa holder in F, J, H or O status, or you have legally changed status in the U.S., you can travel to Canada and/or Mexico and return to the U.S. within 30 days using an expired visa stamp in your passport. Students and scholars in F and J status also can enter an ...