Center for Education Abroad
Research or Study Abroad
At this time, it is strongly recommended that non-U.S. citizens avoid unnecessary international travel. If a study abroad program, an internship, or research outside of the U.S. is required for degree completion, students should consult with an International Services Office advisor (ISO), program advisor in the Center for Education Abroad (CEA), Career Center, or academic advisor before making travel plans.
In addition, please ensure you have all necessary travel documents including a valid passport, valid F-1/J-1 visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 (with a valid travel signature). Recommended documents: Evidence of current enrollment as a full-time student at the University of Rochester. You may request Enrollment Verification from the Registrar’s Office or print a copy of your current course registration. You should also have a copy of your “Letter of Enrollment” from the CEA office.
Be aware that visa issuance decisions and entry into the U.S. remain at the discretion of U.S. consular officers and Customs and Border Protection officials, respectively. Lastly, make sure you register your travel in the Travel Registry.
Please refer to ISO’s travel page for more details and information regarding re-entry to the U.S.
Eligibility
International students sometimes elect to study or conduct research abroad as part of their academic program. It is possible for ISO to maintain your current F-1 or J-1 record in SEVIS while you are out of the country, but only if you will continue enrollment at the University of Rochester. To be eligible for study or research abroad:
- You must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic term in Rochester.
- You must continue full-time registration at the University of Rochester for the academic term(s) and maintain progress toward your degree requirements while abroad.
Here’s what you’ll need to know
Our staff will monitor your academic record and report registration information to SEVIS while you are away from Rochester. You must carry full-time registration at the University of Rochester for the academic term(s) and maintain progress toward your degree requirements while abroad.
We’ll help you obtain an updated travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 prior to your return to the United States. Please allow sufficient time for a new document to be issued and emailed to you prior to your planned re-entry.
During your time overseas, you must maintain communication with ISO to ensure that your F-1 or J-1 status remains valid and that you are able to re-enter the country and resume your studies in Rochester as planned. If your activities abroad will extend more than 12 months beyond the travel signature found on your I-20 or DS-2019, it may be necessary to issue an updated I-20 or DS-2019 while you are away.
If you’ll be out of the country for an academic term and are not participating full-time in authorized study/research abroad, you’ll need to take a leave of absence. This means your current SEVIS record will be terminated.
Learn more about leaves of absence
Consult with an ISO advisor to discuss your plans before leaving the US and to request necessary documentation.