When to Apply:
You must apply to the USCIS for reinstatement to F-1 student status if:
- you did not carry a full program of study without previous approval from an international student advisor;
- you did not attend school during fall or spring semester, unless you were excused for medical reasons;
- you failed to attend the school you were authorized by USCIS to attend;
- you did not notify USCIS of a transfer or change of educational levels in a timely manner;
- you remained in the United States beyond the time authorized under duration of status and did not apply for extension of stay; or
- you violated the immigration regulations in any other manner.
Eligibility for Reinstatement:
You are eligible for consideration for reinstatement to F-1 status only under the following circumstances:
- You have not been out of status for more than five months at the time of filing for reinstatement.
- You do not have a record of repeated or willful violations of the F1 regulations.
- You are currently pursuing, or intend to pursue, a full course of study in the immediate future at the school that issued the Form I-20.
- You have not engaged in unauthorized employment.
- You are not deportable.
- You establish that the violation of status was a result of circumstances beyond your control, or that the violation relates to a reduction in course load that would have been approved by your international student advisor.
Steps:
- Discuss your situation with an international student advisor and get his/her advice about applying for reinstatement.
- Write a letter to USCIS asking for reinstatement, explaining the circumstances of your case, keeping in mind the eligibility requirements stated above.
- Review the ISSS Financial Support Documentation Requirements
- If you are eligible to apply for reinstatement, provide a copy of the letter and updated financial support documentation to ISSS in order for a new I-20 to be issued for the reinstatement application
- Complete an I-539 Form (Application to Extend Time of Temporary Stay), pay the application fee (see "Filing Fee"), and mail the application to USCIS.
- Paying USCIS Fees
- ISSS advises including the following documents:
- A copy of your valid passport
- A copy of your most recent official transcripts
- Proof of funding (if using bank statements, USCIS requires statements from the most recent three months)
- A letter from ISSS supporting your reinstatement
- A personal letter requesting reinstatement
USCIS Process:
- If reinstatement is authorized, USCIS will send you the adjudicated I-20.
- If reinstatement is denied, USCIS will give you a voluntary departure date.
Important:
You cannot apply for reinstatement if you have worked without authorization.