Return to USF

International students who have taken a break from their studies at USF through a Leave of Absence will need a new I-20/DS-2019 to reenter the United States to resume their program under F-1 or J-1 status. Review the Return to USF request instructions below to request for a new I-20/DS-2019.

International students who have been withdrawn or separated from USF and no longer have active MyUSF credentials will first need to complete the Readmitted Student process before they can request for a new I-20/DS-2019. 


Once you have been readmitted to USF and your MyUSF credentials are activated, you will be able to log into MyISSS to request a new I-20/DS-2019 to reenter the United States and resume your program under F-1 or J-1 status. Review the Return to USF request instructions below to request for a new I-20/DS-2019.
 

Submit your Return to USF request in MyISSS

ISSS recommends that students prepare in advance the following documents which are required for the Return to USF request:

  • Certificate of Finances: Proof of finances to show you can cover the cost of USF tuition and living in the United States. You will need a bank statement (from a checking or savings account) showing that you can cover your living and tuition expenses for the length of your new I-20/DS-2019, up to one academic year (Graduate or Undergraduate). Proof of finances must be dated within the last six months.
  • Sponsor Letter: If your finances are not your own bank account, you will need to submit a signed letter from the account holder that states their name, your name and that they are willing to support you.
  • Proof of Enrollment: You must be cleared of all holds on your account and eligible to register in the term you are returning for. If registration is open for the semester in which you are returning, you must be registered for classes.

Once you have prepared your documentation, log into MyISSS to complete and submit the Return to USF request to be issued a new I-20/DS-2019. If additional documents are required, you will receive an email notification from ISSS to your USF email address. Be sure to check your USF email often! Submitted requests will be processed within 10 business days.
 

Reminders:

  • Plan to enter the US no more than 30 days before the new I-20 start date
  • After you receive your Initial I-20, you must pay your SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) (www.fmjfee.com) for your new SEVIS ID.
  • Only if your visa is expired do you need to apply for a new one before you return
  • ISSS recommends you obtain a new F-1/J-1 Visa, even if your current F-1/J-1 visa will be valid when you plan to re-enter the U.S. The SEVIS I-901 fee must be paid prior to your visa interview appointment. More information about applying for your visa can be found on our Visa Information webpage.

Contact your ISSS advisor if you have any questions regarding the Return to USF process.