International Students

Important Information

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented a system of tracking international students, called SEVIS on January 30, 2003 that tracks data for each international student. SEVIS daily updates any changes that occur (like adding a course, withdrawing from a course, etc.).

ISSS has issued a set of guidelines for international students, which you can find on their web page (http://www.isss.umn.edu/SEVIS/SEVIS.html). Please read these guidelines carefully, as not complying with the rules will result in termination of your status as a graduate student. Once you lose your legal status, the DHS will know about this within a day, and you will be required to return home. There is no guarantee that you will be able to return to the U.S. You are responsible to get appropriate advice, and you should contact the ISSS whenever an issue arises that can affect your legal status, including any travel abroad.

Here are the most important guidelines that you must follow to maintain legal status. The ISSS web page lists many more and you should consult their web page.

• You must be a full time student at all times, that is you must be enrolled for at least six credits each semester (you do not need to register during the summer). If you fail to enroll for full time studies prior to the beginning of the semester or if you fall below six credits at any time during the semester, the DHS will view this as a violation of legal status.
• If you intend to Withdraw or Cancel from a course, make sure you do not fall below six credits at any time (even for a day).
• Any reentry into the U.S. made after 1/30/03 will require a SEVIS generated I-20 or DS 2019 (formerly known as IAP-66). Students departing the U.S. during break period or for short periods during the academic year while enrolled full time are NOT required to report to ISSS for SEVIS action. But if you do take a trip, make sure your documents are in order. If there are any doubts, ask the ISSS. The ISSS also offers travel workshops for updated information.
• Students and scholars who need a new entry visa stamp are now required to have a personal interview before the visa is issued. Frequently, there is a long wait for these appointments. If you need to apply for a new entry visa stamp, you may be subjected to a Security Clearance.
• Make sure the University has your current US mailing address and telephone number. If you move, update your address and phone number, you MUST give notification within 10 days of your new address. See the ISSS web page on where to send your change of address (http://www.isss.umn.edu/INSGen/F_address.html). Note that the DHS requires a residence address. SEVIS will not accept a PO Box or departmental address.