For some students, summer break is a time to relax from school and return home to visit family. As an F or M student, it is important to maintain your status during your annual vacation, especially if you depart from the United States.

F students become eligible to take an annual vacation after completing at least one academic year of their program in the United States. Students on a semester schedule should take their annual vacation during their summer break. Students on a quarter or trimester schedule may take their annual vacation during any term allowed by the school, as long as they have completed one academic year of study. If you plan to travel this summer, talk to your designated school official (DSO) about your eligibility to take annual vacation. Your DSO needs to approve travel outside of the United States and endorse your Form I–20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”

You need to return to class within five months, so make sure you are prepared to reenter the United States. You should hand-carry the following documents through a U.S. port of entry:

• Your signed Form I–20,
• Your DSO’s name and contact information, and
• Valid visa and passport.

Remember, never put your required documents in your checked luggage; always carry them with you in an easily accessible place.

M students are not eligible for annual vacation. You must remain enrolled in a full course of study or be engaged in practical training throughout your entire program. If you complete your program of study (including the end of any practical training), you must depart from the United States no later than 30 days after your program end date.

If you have any questions about maintaining status this summer, ask your DSO.