What is a visa?
A visa is a page in your passport that allows you to enter the U.S. It tells us
- Why you are here in the in the United States.
- If you are a tourist, a student, a professional worker, or a diplomat.
- When you may enter the country and how many times you may enter the country:
- S on your visa means Single Entry. M means Multiple Entry.
What is an I-20?
An I-20 is a document that states that you have permission to be in the U.S. as a full-time student. It tells us:
- Where you are from
- Where you are studying
- What you are studying
- How long you may study
- What your Money/financial ability is
- When your I-20 will expire
What if your visa expires while in the U.S.?
If you have a valid I-20, you may remain in the U.S. If you leave the U.S. and your I-20 and visa are not valid, you must get a new I-20 and visa.
What can I do when my I-20 expires?
Here are your options when your I-20 expires:
- Begin a new program of study
- Change your visa status
- Apply for an extension
- Leave the U.S. within 15 days
What if I haven't finished my studies?
If your I-20 is due to expire before you finish your studies, you must make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor and request a program extension. This must be done within 30 days before the expiration date.
What if I forget to request a program extension?
If you forget to request a program extension and your I-20 expires, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will think you are leaving the U.S. If you remain in the U.S., you must request a Reinstatement of Status. This costs $300 This is expensive and can be difficult to process. PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO REQUEST AN EXTENSION!
What if I have finished my studies, but did not leave the country or begin a new program of study?
Once you finish your studies, your I-20 status is complete and you will have sixty (60) days to transfer your SEVIS record or leave the country. If you do not transfer your record or leave the country within 60 days, you will be in violation of U.S. immigration law.
What if I am going home but will come back to the ELC to study?
If your I-20 has not expired and you do not need a new visa, take your I-20 to the International Student Advisor for an additional signature.
When can I take a vacation?
You may take a vacation for one term (3 months) after you have been enrolled for three (3) consecutive full-term quarters (9 months) at the ELC. However, you must make an appointment with the International Student Advisor to get permission before you can take a vacation.
What if I go on vacation after one or two terms?
If you go on vacation early, you will be out-of-status. Your visa status and I-20 will be terminated. Make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor if you need to take a temporary leave of absence.
What if I get sick while I am an ELC student?
If you are sick, please get a letter from a doctor and make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor. The letter must state your condition and that you are required to take a break from studying or enroll part-time during a specific period of time. The International Student Advisor will review the letter and help you decide about your visa status.
Can I work on campus?
You may work on campus for up to 20 hours a week during the academic term. You may work up to 40 hours a week during term breaks and vacation periods on campus only.
Can I work off campus?
You may NOT work off campus.
What happens if I move?
You must report your new address to the International Student Advisor and to the ELC front desk within 10 days of your move.
I want to transfer to another school. What should I do?
Follow these steps:
- Complete the application process for the school you will transfer to
- Make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor when you receive the acceptance letter
- Bring the acceptance letter and your Drexel ELC I-20 to the appointment
- Complete the ELC Transfer Out form and new program of study I-20 Transfer in form
The International Student Advisor will send the transfer report to your new school and transfer your I-20 in SEVIS at the end of the term. You must report to your new advisor within the first 15 days of the new class start date. The new advisor will complete the transfer and issue you a new I-20.
Will I need a new I-20 to study in a degree program at Drexel?
Yes, you need a new I-20 anytime you begin a new program of study.
I have an F-2, J-2, or B1/B2 visa. Can I change to F-1?
Please make an appointment to see the International Student Advisor. We can only advise about changes of status to F-1. The official approval is made by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What happens if I am dropped from a class?
If you are dropped from a class, your visa status will be terminated, and you will have to depart the US. If this happens, contact the International Student Advisor immediately to review your options.