M-1 Students: Three Tips to Maintain Your Status This Summer
July 30, 2015
As an M-1 student at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, you must maintain your status while you study in the United States by following the international student rules associated with your visa type. It is just as important to maintain your status during the summer months as it is during the rest of the year.
Follow these three tips below to help maintain your student status this summer.
- M-1 students are not permitted to take an annual vacation. Be sure to talk with your designated school official (DSO) before you take a leave of absence, take a break from school or travel outside the United States. While you may not have an extended break from classes during the summer, consider exploring the great outdoors of the United States during the weekend or on your days off from school.
- Continue to take a full course of study during the summer while your school is in session. If you cannot study full time or if your classes are too difficult, you must contact your DSO immediately. Read What is a Full Course of Study for details about the types of requirements specific to your program of study.
- You must depart the United States no more than 30 days after your program end date or practical training end date, unless you have filed for an extension with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Remember to talk with your DSO if you have any questions regarding the requirements of your stay in the United States. They can assist in answering your questions or help you find a better resource. You may also contact SEVP by email at sevp@ice.dhs.gov with your issue-specific question.
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