If a student enrolled in a SEVP-certified school* participates in a study abroad program lasting less than five months, they are eligible to remain active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. Nonetheless, in the event that the study abroad program extends beyond a duration of five months, the student will be required to procure a fresh Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
Other guidance for the classification of F/M nonimmigrant students are:
Students may count one online class or three credit hours per academic session towards their full course of study. They can choose between SEVP-certified schools at the same educational level or switch between different educational levels. After completing Optional Practical Training (OPT), students are granted a 60-day grace period to alter their educational level, transfer to another SEVP-certified institution, or apply to USCIS for a change of status.
After completing an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program, students may be eligible for post-completion leave. There are specific durations during which students are eligible to apply for STEM OPT extensions, as well as other technical corrections.
* SEVP certified schools are U.S. learning institutions that have applied for and received approval to enroll F and M nonimmigrant students.
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