Withdraw or leave of absence (F-1)
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
Withdraw or leave of absence (F-1)
This may be possible, but you must coordinate with your DSO first. Done properly, your SEVIS record is closed as an Authorized Early Withdrawal (AEW), which protects your status and gives you 15 days to leave the U.S. Leaving without telling your DSO results in an unauthorized termination.
Withdrawing
Complete your school's withdrawal process and required forms.
Your DSO updates your SEVIS record as an AEW. (Authorized Early Withdrawal)
You then have 15 days from the termination date to depart.
To return later, you'll need a new I-20, to repay the SEVIS fee, and possibly a new visa stamp. Ask your DSO about the possibility of re-activating your SEVIS record, if you are returning within five months.
Taking a leave of absence
Follow your program's leave process and notify your international office.
Usually your record is terminated for AEW and you leave within 15 days.
Outside the U.S. under 5 months: your DSO may request SEVIS reactivation (return on the same SEVIS number) — wait for approval and an updated I-20 before traveling.
Outside 5+ months (or if reactivation is denied): you'll get a new I-20 and SEVIS number, repay the SEVIS fee, possibly get a new visa, and must complete a full academic year before CPT/OPT eligibility.
Important: You only get the 15-day grace period if you coordinate with your DSO. Always confirm your program's rules on leave length and paperwork to resume.
