Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find help with transportation?
Learn where international students can find transportation help, including campus shuttles, public transit, discounted passes, and local travel resources.
Where can I find tutoring or academic support?
Learn where international students can find free tutoring, writing help, study skills support, and academic resources to succeed in college.
How do I change my major as an international student?
Learn how to change your major as an international student while keeping your SEVIS record accurate and maintaining your F-1 or J-1 status.
How do I register for classes in the U.S.?
Learn how to register for U.S. college classes, meet full-time enrollment rules, choose courses, and protect your F-1 or J-1 immigration status.
Do I need health insurance as an international student?
Learn why health insurance is required for J-1 students, often required for F-1 students, and how to choose the right coverage for your needs.
In-state vs. out-of-state tuition
Learn the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition, why international students usually pay higher rates, and possible exceptions.
Can I work or conduct research during my grace period?
Learn whether you can work or conduct research during your F-1 or J-1 grace period and what activities are allowed after your program ends.
What documents do I need to re-enter the U.S.?
Learn which documents F-1 and J-1 students need to re-enter the U.S., including passports, visas, travel signatures, and supporting records.
Can I travel during the school year?
Learn when F-1 and J-1 students can travel during the school year, required documents, and how to avoid problems with re-entry or immigration status.
What happens if I’m questioned at the airport?
Know what to expect if CBP delays or refuses your entry, including secondary inspection, Form I-515A, and the steps to protect your status.
What should I expect at a U.S. Port of Entry?
Know what to expect at a U.S. port of entry, including CBP inspection, required documents, secondary inspection, and your I-94 admission.
Can I travel to the U.S. without my Form I-20 or DS-2019?
Don't travel without your original Form I-20 or DS-2019. Find out what to do if it's lost, delayed, or damaged before returning to the U.S.
What is a travel signature and why do I need one?
Learn what a travel signature is, why F-1 and J-1 students need one, how long it's valid, and how it affects re-entry to the U.S.
How long can I be outside the U.S. without affecting my status?
Learn how long F-1 and J-1 students can stay outside the U.S. without affecting SEVIS status and when a new record may be required.
What should I do if I’m delayed or refused entry by CBP?
Learn what to do if CBP delays or refuses your entry, what happens in secondary inspection, and how to respond to a Form I-515A or denial.
What can I do during my grace period?
Learn what you can do during your F-1 or J-1 grace period, including travel, preparing to leave, and eligible post-program options like OPT or transfers.
What happens if I don’t leave the U.S. within my grace period?
Learn what happens if you overstay your F-1 or J-1 grace period, how it affects your immigration status, and when to seek legal guidance.
What is the 12-month bar, and how is it different from the 24-month bar?
Understand the difference between the J-1 12-month and 24-month bars, who each rule applies to, and how they affect future exchange programs.
When can I invest $800,000 instead of $1,050,000 for EB-5?
See when the reduced $800,000 EB-5 investment applies, which projects qualify, and how targeted areas can offer visa set-aside benefits.
How can I apply for a drivers license?
Learn how international students can apply for a U.S. driver's license, what documents to bring, and how REAL ID rules may affect you.