Termination, Loss of Status, and Reinstatement

Maintaining Your F or J Visa Status at APSU: Important Information

As an international student on an F or J visa, you must follow certain rules to maintain your legal status in the U.S. Failing to do so can lead to termination of your student status.

Understanding Termination of Status

Termination means that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is notified that you no longer have legal non-immigration status due to a violation. This is a serious issue, and you may need to leave the U.S. immediately. Termination often occurs if you:

• Fail to enroll in full-time, in-person courses each semester.
• Are suspended or dismissed from your academic program.
• Fail to complete a required non-immigration check-in with the APSU International Student Services (ISS) office.

Important Note: Not all terminations are negative. Two examples include:

• Authorized Early Withdrawal: If you decide to take a leave of absence (temporary or permanent) in consultation with an ISS advisor, your status will be terminated, but this doesn't indicate a violation. You'll have 15 days to leave the U.S.
• Change of Status Approved: If you obtain a new, valid immigration status (e.g., H-1B or Permanent Residency), your F or J status will be terminated, but this is a positive change.

Regaining Your Status: Re-Entry and Reinstatement

If your F or J status is terminated, you may be able to regain it. The first step is to meet with an ISS advisor. There are two main options:

1. Re-Issuance and Re-Entry: After leaving the U.S., you can request new immigration documents from APSU (if you're still admitted and in good standing). Use these to re-enter the U.S. and resume your studies. However, re-entry is not guaranteed. DHS can deny entry if you have a previous immigration violation.
2. Reinstatement: If you lost status due to circumstances beyond your control, you may be eligible for reinstatement. You must meet with an ISS advisor to determine if your case qualifies. If so, you'll need to file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay the required fees. This process can take 6-9 months, and approval is not guaranteed.

Key Takeaway: Always contact the APSU International Student Services (ISS) office immediately if you have any concerns about your visa status. They are here to help you maintain your legal status and achieve your academic goals.