Taking A Gap Year: International Student Edition

Taking a year off from college can be a great opportunity for students to gain maturity, develop a broader perspective, and gain a better sense of their career options. However, for international students, taking a year off can be a more complex decision due to visa and immigration considerations. F-1 students in the United States, for example, must be continuously enrolled full-time during the academic year, but they do have the option to take a Leave of Absence (LOA) for a limited period, typically up to five months. If the leave is longer than five months, international students may need to reapply for a new visa and may not be eligible for certain benefits such as OPT or CPT. Therefore, international students considering taking time off from college should carefully research the specific rules and regulations that apply to their situation and plan their leave accordingly.

Benefits of taking a gap year

Taking a gap year can be a rewarding experience for students, offering numerous benefits that can positively impact their academic and professional careers. Here are some advantages to consider:

Academic Benefits

Research has shown that taking a gap year can positively influence a student's academic performance in college. Studies by Birch and Miller (2007) and Crawford and Cribb (2012) found that students who took a gap year performed better in college, with the strongest impact observed among students with lower grades initially. This positive effect was not only immediate but also endured throughout their college years.

Personal Growth and Skill Development

A gap year provides a unique opportunity for self-discovery and exploration. Students can gain valuable experiences and develop practical, technical, and soft skills that can benefit them academically and professionally. They can explore their interests, gain insights into different fields, and discover their passions, which can help them make more informed decisions about their future careers.

Broader Perspective and Cultural Awareness

During a gap year, students often travel to foreign countries, exposing themselves to new cultures and broadening their perspectives. This international exposure can foster cultural awareness, enhance their understanding of global issues, and encourage a more open-minded and empathetic outlook.

Financial Considerations

Taking a gap year allows students to earn income and financially support themselves before embarking on their college journey. This can be especially beneficial for those who need time to save up for their education or want to reduce their reliance on student loans.

Planning and Intentionality

A well-planned and intentional gap year is crucial to maximizing its benefits. Students should structure their time off to ensure they gain meaningful experiences, develop lasting relationships, and acquire new skills. Maintaining a blog or journal during this time can help document these experiences, which can later be highlighted in college applications and essays, showcasing the value of their time away.

In conclusion, a gap year offers students a range of advantages, from improved academic performance to personal growth and skill development. It provides a break from traditional academics, allowing students to explore their interests, gain new perspectives, and return to their studies with renewed motivation and a broader worldview.

Re-entry requirements for the US

International students and scholars may travel during scheduled university breaks, but it is important to be aware that international travel restrictions can change at any time. Students and scholars returning to the US from a temporary break should ensure they have the required documents to re-enter the country.

• A valid passport from your country of citizenship that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of re-entry to the US. If your passport has recently been renewed, you may need to carry your old, expired passport if your visa is in that passport.
• A valid F-1/J-1 visa in your passport (except for students from Canada).
• I-20/DS-2019 with a valid travel signature from the Office of International Services (OIS).
• Financial support documents (i.e. proof of funding).
• USC acceptance letter (F-1/J-1 students) or invitation letter (J-1 scholars).
• If you have filed for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT), carry photocopies of your F-1 or J-1 visa.
• If you are a student, you may wish to bring copies of your financial documentation and your student transcript as an additional precaution when travelling.
• If you are a scholar, you may wish to bring a copy of your J-1 scholar's offer letter of the position as an additional precaution when travelling.
• If you are travelling with a pending OPT/STEM OPT Extension application, it is recommended that you consult with an OIS advisor before travelling internationally.
• If you are a J-1 scholar, per the Department of State regulations, you are not permitted to travel outside of the US for more than 30 days.
• If you are a J-1 student, you will need to request a new travel signature by going to Student Login > Requests > DS-2019 Reprint or Travel Signature.
• If you are a J-1 scholar, go to Scholar Login > Requests > DS-2019 Travel Signature Request.
• If you are a student, you may also need an in-transit visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight.
• If you are a student, you may need to consult your Designated School Official (DSO) before travelling. Your DSO generally works in the International Student Office.
• If you are a student, you must have a current SEVIS Form I-20 endorsed for travel and your DSO needs to be able to verify that your SEVIS record is accurate and up-to-date.
• If you are a student, you must have been out of the United States for less than five months.

Financial considerations

If you are an international student considering taking a year off college, there are several financial considerations to keep in mind. These include understanding the refund policies, managing existing debts, and planning for future expenses. Here are some detailed points to consider:

Refund Policies

If you decide to take a leave of absence, it is important to consult with the relevant offices, such as the Registrar's office, to understand the refund policies. Depending on when you withdraw from your classes, you may be eligible for a full or partial refund of your tuition and other fees. Each college or university may have its own policies, so be sure to review them carefully. Additionally, consider any outstanding balances you may have, as these will need to be settled before your leave is approved or before you are allowed to re-enroll when you return.

Existing Debts and Loans

If you have existing student loans, understand the terms and conditions, including any grace periods or deferment options. Some loan providers may allow for a temporary suspension of payments during your leave of absence, but interest may still accrue. Make sure you have a plan to manage your debt and avoid defaulting on your loans. Check if your college or university has resources or advisors who can guide you through this process.

Future Expenses and Financial Planning

When planning your time off, consider the future financial implications of your leave. During your time away, you may incur living expenses, travel costs, or other personal expenses. Create a budget that takes into account your expected expenses and identify sources of income or savings to cover these costs. Additionally, if you plan to return to college after your break, factor in the potential increase in tuition fees and other costs, ensuring that you have the necessary funds or financial aid in place.

Immigration and Visa Costs

Taking a leave of absence may impact your immigration status and visa requirements. If you are departing from and returning to the United States, for instance, there are specific rules regarding SEVIS records and visas. If you are gone for more than five months, you will likely need to obtain a new visa and pay associated fees, which can be a significant expense. Plan for these additional costs and understand the process for re-entry to ensure a smooth transition back to your studies.

Remember, each situation is unique, and it is always best to consult with your college or university's international student services office, as well as your academic advisor, to fully understand the financial implications of taking a year off as an international student. They can provide you with specific guidance and help you navigate any administrative or financial processes related to your leave of absence.

Impact on academic performance

Taking a year off college can have both positive and negative impacts on academic performance. On the one hand, taking a gap year can provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable skills and experiences that can enhance their academic performance when they return to their studies. On the other hand, there is a risk of losing academic momentum and a potential impact on earning potential over time.

One of the key advantages of taking a gap year is the opportunity for academic enrichment. During this time, students can participate in structured programs, explore new academic disciplines, gain hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work, and broaden their global perspective by studying abroad. These experiences can contribute to personal growth and development, allowing students to gain clarity about their academic and career aspirations, leading to more informed choices and a reduced likelihood of dropping out in the first year.

Data analyses have shown that students who took a gap year developed stronger problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in the academic environment. These skills enable students to successfully navigate academic challenges and contribute to their overall academic success. Additionally, students who took a gap year were found to have higher college GPAs than those who transitioned directly from high school to college, further highlighting the positive impact of a gap year on academic performance.

However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. Taking a gap year means starting and finishing college a year late, which can impact long-term earning potential by delaying entry into the workforce. Additionally, there is a risk of losing academic momentum during the gap year. Study skills and academic habits established in high school may suffer if not maintained for an extended period. Therefore, it is crucial for students to carefully plan and structure their gap year, ensuring they stay engaged in learning and skill-building activities to mitigate any negative impacts on their academic performance.

International students considering a gap year should also be aware of the immigration implications. If an international student withdraws from classes, they must depart from the country within a specified timeframe, typically within 15 days. Additionally, if the gap year results in an absence of more than five months, the student will need to re-enter on a new SEVIS record, acquire a new visa, and may not be eligible for certain benefits such as OPT or CPT for a year. Proper planning and consultation with the relevant offices are necessary to navigate these administrative requirements successfully.

Visa and immigration documents

As an international student, taking a year off college can have implications for your visa and immigration status, so it is important to carefully consider the relevant procedures and requirements. Here is some information regarding visa and immigration documents to be aware of if you are thinking of taking a leave of absence:

Firstly, it is important to understand the five-month rule. If you take a leave of absence for five months or fewer, you will need to notify the Center for International Students at least 60 days before your planned return. You will need to provide a statement of your intention to return, a copy of your travel itinerary, and confirmation that you have requested transcripts to be sent to the Center. You are not allowed to re-enter the US more than 30 days before classes resume, even if your visa is still valid.

If your leave of absence exceeds five months, you will need to return on a new SEVIS record with a new I-20. This process is similar to your initial visa application. You will need to reapply to your college, obtain a new I-20, and acquire a new visa. Additionally, you will need to pay a new I-901 fee and enter as a new student. It is important to note that if you enter on a new SEVIS record, you will not be eligible for OPT or CPT for another year.

When planning your leave of absence, be mindful of the timing of your departure. If you withdraw from classes before or after the semester starts, you must depart from the US within 15 days. If you have not registered for classes and decide to take a semester off, you should depart within 15 days of the semester's commencement.

Remember to consult official sources and immigration advisors for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as the specifics may vary depending on your country of origin and the policies of your host country.

Frequently asked questions