Savanna Hoffman
International students are permitted to travel during scheduled university breaks, but new travel restrictions may arise at any time. Students must consult their Designated School Official (DSO) before travelling and ensure they have the required documents to re-enter the US. These include a valid passport, a valid visa, a Form I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status endorsed for travel and signed by their DSO, and financial information showing proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses. Students should also be aware of potential visa fraud and the consequences of expressing controversial opinions, which may result in detention or deportation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required Documents | Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”, endorsed for travel and signed by DSO, valid passport, valid visa, financial information showing proof of necessary funds to cover tuition and living expenses |
| Time Outside the Country | Should generally not leave the country for more than 5 months |
| Pending Practical Training Application | It is not recommended to leave the US |
| SEVIS Status Issue | CBP officer may issue Form I-515A, admitting student to the US for 30 days while proper documentation is obtained |
| DSO Contact | DSO's daytime telephone number and 24-hour emergency phone number |
| Visa Application | Apply in your home country or a third country, but cannot return to the US until a new visa is issued |
| OPT | Filing for post-completion OPT does not affect students' ability to travel internationally and return to the US |
| Port of Entry | USC Department of Public Safety can be contacted in case of an emergency at a US Port of Entry |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents for re-entry
International students must possess several documents to re-enter the United States. These requirements are in place to ensure compliance with US immigration laws and regulations. Here is a list of the necessary documents:
- Valid Passport: Students must have a valid passport to re-enter the US. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of their re-entry. This is a standard requirement for international travel and ensures that students have valid identification and citizenship verification.
- Student Visa: Depending on their course of study and the type of institution, international students will need either an F-1 or M-1 visa. This visa should be valid and stamped in their passport. The visa allows students to pursue their studies in the US and verifies their purpose of stay.
- Form I-20 or DS-2019: This form is the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." It should be signed by the student's Designated School Official (DSO) within the last year. The form confirms the student's enrolment and eligibility to pursue their studies in the US.
- Financial Support Documents: Students must provide proof of funding to cover their educational and living expenses. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or other relevant financial documents.
- Acceptance Letter or Invitation Letter: Students should carry an acceptance letter from their US institution. For scholars, an invitation letter from the institution may be required.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If the student has a pending practical training application, they should wait for approval before leaving the country. Upon approval, they will receive an EAD, which is required for re-entry.
- Form I-94 (recommended for M-1 students): The "Arrival/Departure Record" is recommended for M-1 students and can be helpful for verifying travel history and ensuring compliance with visa requirements.
It is essential for international students to consult with their institution's international student office or an immigration advisor to ensure they have the most up-to-date and complete list of required documents for re-entry into the United States. The specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and changes in immigration policies.
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Valid passport
International students who want to enter the United States must obtain a visa. There are two types of visas available: a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. A nonimmigrant visa can be for business (B1), tourism (B2), or a combination of both (B1/B2).
To enter the US, a valid passport is required. Many countries require passports to be valid for a specific period after the date of entry or departure. This is typically for at least six months, but some countries require three months, and others only require passport validity at the time of entry. The six-month rule is in place to ensure visitors do not have trouble returning home if their departure is delayed. This rule is not universal, and some countries have different requirements. For example, Hong Kong and Macau have a one-month validity requirement, while mainland China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and several other countries require six months of passport validity.
It is important to note that a valid visa in an expired passport is still usable. The visa is valid until its expiration date unless it is canceled or revoked. However, if you are issued a new passport, you should carry your old passport with the valid visa, along with your new passport, when travelling to and entering the US.
In addition to a valid passport, international students should ensure that their DSO has signed their Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status", within the last year. It is also recommended to have the most recent Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record", and the DSO's most up-to-date contact information.
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Valid visa
International students with a valid F or M visa can re-enter the United States if they have not been out of the country for more than five months. Students must also have a current SEVIS Form I-20 endorsed for travel and signed by their Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO works in the International Student Office and can help verify that the student's SEVIS record is accurate and up-to-date.
Students must also have a current passport that is valid for at least six months after the date of their re-entry. If the student is from a country with an agreement with the United States, they may only need a passport that is valid until the date of entry. It is important to note that students on F or M visas are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program. If a student wishes to enter earlier, they must separately apply and qualify for a visitor (B) visa.
Additionally, students should be aware of any restrictions associated with their visa status. For example, F-1 students must complete at least one full academic year at an SEVP-certified school to be eligible for annual vacation. M-1 students have different requirements, as outlined on the relevant websites. Students should also be mindful of the purpose of their visa and ensure that they maintain their student status by fulfilling the requirements associated with their visa type.
If a student's visa is still valid but they are outside the United States, they should consult with their DSO or refer to the SEVP website for guidance. It is important to maintain valid visa status and follow the appropriate procedures to ensure a smooth return to the United States as an international student.
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Financial information
International students in the US often have to pay for their tuition and living expenses themselves, as funding opportunities are limited. However, there are several financial aid options available, including scholarships, federal loans, private loans, work-study programmes, and grants.
Scholarships
Scholarships are a popular option for international students, as they provide financial assistance and open doors to unique cultural experiences and valuable networking opportunities. Many universities offer scholarships, but there are also private, corporate, nonprofit, and government-funded scholarships available. Scholarship Search and InternationalScholarships.com are free online scholarship search services that can help students find relevant opportunities.
Federal Loans
FAFSA (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the most common form of financial aid for US students, offering low-interest loans that must be repaid after graduation. However, FAFSA is restricted to specific categories of students from other countries, such as those with a green card or T non-immigrant status.
Private Loans
Several private legal lenders in the US offer loans to international students, but these usually require a creditworthy co-signer who is a US citizen or permanent resident. Private loans can cover the total cost of education, including tuition, transportation, food, and living expenses, and can be applied for at any time.
Work-Study Programmes
Some international students may be able to work part-time on campus while studying, although immigration regulations are strict regarding working with a student visa. F-1 status, the most common status for full-time international students, allows for part-time, on-campus employment (less than 20 hours per week). J-1 status allows for similar employment with permission from the exchange visitor program sponsor.
Grants
Grants are another form of financial aid available to international students, although the sources and application processes for these may vary.
Proof of Financial Ability
International students applying to US colleges must also demonstrate their ability to pay for their expenses, typically by providing proof of funding for the first year of their studies. This can be done through bank statements, letters from employers showing annual salary, or financial aid letters. Each college has its own specific requirements, so students should check with their chosen institution to ensure they provide the correct documentation.
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Travel during scheduled breaks
International students studying in the United States may be able to travel during scheduled breaks. However, it is important to take the appropriate steps to ensure a smooth re-entry into the country. Here are some guidelines for international students planning to travel during their break:
Meet with your Designated School Official (DSO):
Before travelling, it is crucial to check in with your DSO and ensure that your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is up-to-date and in Active status. Your DSO should have signed your Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," within the last year. Make sure to obtain their most recent contact information, including daytime and 24-hour emergency phone numbers.
Travel Documents:
Keep your passport, student visa, and Form I-20 easily accessible, preferably in your carry-on bag, as you will need them for inspection when returning to the United States. Stay informed about any international travel advisories or health regulations that may impact your trip.
Pending Practical Training Applications:
If you have a pending practical training application, it is generally not recommended to leave the country. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may send requests for evidence to your U.S. address while you are away. If your practical training application is approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which will be sent to your U.S. address. You will need this document to re-enter the United States.
Duration of Travel:
It is important to ensure that you do not remain outside the country for more than five months. Extended absences may impact your student status and your ability to re-enter the United States seamlessly.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about any relevant travel updates, international students can confidently travel during scheduled breaks while maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond the date of re-entry to the US), a valid F-1 student visa in your passport (unless you are a citizen of Canada or Bermuda, or travelled to a contiguous country for less than 30 days), and financial information showing proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses. You will also need a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”, endorsed for travel and signed by your DSO within the last year, and your DSO’s most up-to-date contact information.
If you arrive at a US port of entry without all the required documents, a CBP officer may issue you a Form I-515A, “Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor”. Form I-515A admits you to the United States for 30 days while you obtain and submit the proper documentation to SEVP.
Students and scholars may travel internationally during scheduled university breaks, but new travel restrictions could arise at any moment. Students and scholars returning to the US from a temporary break should ensure they have the required documents to re-enter the country.
