Common Problems
Learn about the most common problems for international students in the United States - and how to avoid them.
Helpful Guides
International students are frequent targets because scammers assume you're still learning U.S. systems. The good news: most scams share predictable patterns. Here's how to protect yourself.
Most students never face these issues, but if you do, acting quickly and getting the right help makes all the difference. Here's an overview of common legal problems for international students in the United States.
FAQs
Learn about the most common scams targeting international students, how to recognize warning signs, and what to do if you're contacted by scammers.
Find out what to do if you've been scammed, including how to report it, protect your accounts, and reduce the risk of further identity theft.
Compare reinstatement and re-entry with a new I-20 or DS-2019, including timelines, eligibility, and how each option affects your F-1 status.
Find out what happens if you fall out of F-1 or J-1 status, your options to regain status, and why acting quickly is critical.
Stay informed about recent U.S. immigration policy changes, how they may affect your status, and where to find the latest updates and guidance.
Find out what to do if your U.S. visa is revoked, how it may affect your immigration status, and the immediate steps to protect your options.
Understand how an arrest or criminal charge can affect your visa, immigration status, SEVIS record, and future travel or work authorization.
Learn how to recognize common scam warning signs, spot red flags, and protect yourself from fraud targeting international students.
Know when it's safe to share your Social Security number, when to refuse, and how to protect yourself from identity theft and common scams.
Learn the most common reasons a SEVIS record is terminated, how termination affects your status, and steps to avoid losing legal status.
Report scams quickly by contacting your school, bank, law enforcement, and federal agencies to protect your identity, finances, and immigration status.
Learn about the most common reasons for visa denial in this guide for international students.
Learn what to do if your U.S. visa is denied, including understanding the reason, fixing issues, informing your DSO, and reapplying if eligible.
Learn how nonimmigrant intent affects your U.S. visa application, what an INA 214(b) denial means, and how to strengthen a future application.