Temporary Absense | More Than Five (5) Months

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) considers an absence of more than five (5) months to be permanent and the student’s SEVIS record will be terminated. This applies to students who are not enrolled or those who did not submit a Reduced Course Load form for the term during which they’ll be absent.

You should consult with the Immigration & Advising Coordinator to departure to inform them of your intent, departure date, and anticipated return date. 

Your I-20 will be canceled if your SEVIS record is canceled. Consequently, you will need to request a new I-20 for your return to resume study.

Upon returning to the U.S. to resume study after an absence of more than five (5) months if your record was terminated, you will need to satisfy a new academic year full-time requirement before being eligible to pursue Curricular Practical Training or Optional Practical Training.