F-1 Studying in U.S.
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      1. The White Paper for F1 Students
      2. F-1 Studying in U.S.

      Studying in the U.S. - Returning to Home Country During Breaks

      This article provides detailed information on what international students should consider when returning home during their studies, as well as the materials they need to prepare.

      During Program

      Scenario 1: Re-Enter the U.S. with a Valid F-1 Visa and I-20

      While studying on an F-1 status, you can enter the U.S. if you have a valid F-1 visa and I-20. However, you will need a "travel signature" from your school's International Students Office or designated advisor to ensure smooth re-entry after short trips abroad.

      To get a travel signature, follow these steps:

      1. Check the validity: If your I-20 already has a travel signature, check its expiration date. In general, F-1 students need to renew their travel signature every 12 months (varies by school).

      2. Make an appointment: Contact the International Students Office to learn about their travel signature process. Some schools allow walk-ins, while others require appointments.

      3. Submit required documents: Usually, you will need to provide your I-20, passport, and I-94. Make sure all documents are up-to-date and valid.

      4. Wait for the signature: Once you have submitted all required documents, a Designated School Official (DSO) will sign your I-20. Some schools do this immediately, while others may take a few days.

      5. Keep your documents safe: Always carry your signed I-20 with you when traveling internationally.

      Note:

      If you transfer to another school or program, you may need a new I-20 and a new travel signature.

       Scenario 2: Your F-1 Visa is Expired

      Before departing, you need to notify the International Students Office and confirm whether your existing I-20 and travel signature are still valid.

      If your F-1 visa has expired, you will need to obtain a new F-1 visa outside the U.S. before re-entering the country.

      Please refer to: F-1 Visa Renewal: Process

      Note:

      If you are outside the U.S. for more than 5 months, your I-20 and F-1 status may be terminated. In this case, you will need to pay the SEVIS fee again, apply for a new I-20, and reapply for an F-1 visa to re-enter the U.S.

       

      During F-1 OPT

      During OPT, you still hold F-1 status. If your visa and I-20 are valid, you can enter the U.S. without issues.

      Since your coursework is completed, customs may ask why you are returning to the U.S. after graduation. Do not worry about this question, as using OPT to work in the U.S. is a legal right for F-1 students.

      Notes for Entering the U.S. During OPT:

      • As with your F-1 study period, you need to obtain a travel signature before leaving.

      • When traveling, bring the following documents: a valid passport with an F-1 visa, an I-20 with a travel signature, a valid EAD card, a job offer letter, and any other documents proving the authenticity of your employment.

      • Do not stay abroad for more than 5 months, as this will be considered abandoning your F-1 status.

      Notes for Renewing Your F-1 Visa During OPT:

      • If you have only 3 months left on your OPT, it is advisable not to leave the U.S. to renew your F-1 visa. It is better to complete your OPT within the U.S. and then consider your next steps.

      • In theory, you have the right to return to the U.S. and use the remaining OPT time after leaving. However, if you only have 3 months left on your OPT, visa officers may question the purpose of your return and suspect that you might overstay illegally after OPT ends. But if your OPT has just started, or if you are renewing your F-1 visa during STEM OPT, there is generally no issue.

       

      During F-1 CPT

      International students on CPT should avoid frequent travel, especially during the semester. If you need to return to your home country, try to do so within the validity period of your F-1 visa. Here are the things to note when traveling:

      1. If you have already applied for CPT, bring your latest CPT I-20.

      2. Carry all materials provided by your CPT school, including class schedules, assignments, and syllabuses. These documents are to prove your full-time student status.

      3. Bring your employer's CPT Agreement to show that your internship is related to your coursework.

      4. If you need to renew your F-1 visa, you must clearly demonstrate the following things to the visa officer:

      • Reasonable Academic Motivation: Provide a reasonable explanation for your choice of school and program.

      • Relevance of CPT to Your Program: Show that CPT is an integral part of your studies. If necessary, present the job description to demonstrate the connection between your CPT work and your field of study.

      • No Immigration Intent: Prepare additional materials to prove that you plan to return to your home country after completing your program.

      5. It is advisable to travel during a break or vacation period when there are no classes.