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Before Studying Abroad
Studying in other countries can offer new cultural experiences and exposure to different academic subjects. Studying abroad is a great option to enhance your studies as an undergraduate or graduate student. You also may participate in a study abroad program or international research while completing your dissertation or thesis preparation. However, students are permitted to study abroad only after completing their first term successfully and maintaining their F-1 status. Talk to your designated school official (DSO) about class requirements for the time you would enroll in the study abroad program.
You still must enroll for and receive the necessary number of credits for a full course of study at the school whose DSO issued your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status” (i.e., your Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school must accept the credits you receive from the study abroad program). Remember, you must maintain your status while taking leave from your studies.
If you do not enroll in a full course of study at the school whose DSO issued your Form I-20 during the period of study abroad, you can complete the study abroad program while on an annual vacation term (remember you must complete one academic year to be eligible for annual vacation) or authorized leave of absence. If you leave the United States (US) for more than five months and are not able to remain enrolled at your school, you will not be able to maintain your status. If you want to continue studying in the US, you must apply for a new visa in your home country (if applicable) and a new Form I-20 from a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified school. Talk to your DSO if you have any questions.
While Studying Abroad
If a student remains enrolled in a full course of study during their study abroad program, they may keep their status listed as Active in SEVIS. If they do not, their F-1 status at Florida Poly will be deactivated unless the student has an approved Reduced Course Load (RCL). Students who remain outside the US for more than five months must consult a US embassy or consulate near them to determine if a new visa is needed for their return. We cannot guarantee that a student will not be questioned about their length of time away due to the five-month rule; students may be questioned about their length of time away at either the US embassy or consulate or the US port of entry. Additionally, if a student’s current visa is no longer valid, the student may need to apply for and receive a new one.
- Students seeking to take a leave of absence from their US studies cannot remain enrolled as an F-1 student, and their study abroad will be reported as a temporary absence. Students should consult with a DSO before considering temporary absences or being unenrolled in the US for over five months.
REMEMBER! All students should contact a DSO before applying for a study abroad program to verify eligibility and to ensure they are meeting immigration regulations for their F-1 status.
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