Questions and Answers on COVID_19 for International Students
Will on-line courses harm my F1 status?
Normally, Only one online or distance learning class (3 credit hours) can count toward
a full course of study for an F-1 student during each term or semester. Because of
the COVID-19 outbreak, as for now you are allowed for to take all online courses for
this semester only. Beginning in the Fall semester of 2020, you must be enrolled in at least 9 on-ground
courses on the campus and the other 3 hours can be on-line. If you are sponsored by
your government, any on-line courses you take must be approved either by your sponsor.
Can I still graduate this semester?
As long as you have met the degree requirement, you may graduate this semester. Please
check with the Registrar’s Office regarding graduation.
How will I know if I can travel back to my home country?
Do I need my I-20 signed before departure if I will return to MTSU and continue my
study?
First look on page 2 of your I-20 to see if we have already signed it. If we have, the signature is valid for one year. If you need to leave without the I-20 being signed, we can print a new one and send
it to you via e-shipglobal services.
Can I still apply for OPT?
As long as the university is open you may apply for OPT 90 days BEFORE graduation
or up to 60 days AFTER you graduate.
Can I still stay in my dorm?
Yes, but be sure to check your Housing Portal for the instructions. You will need to register on-line via your Housing Portal to let them know you are
coming back and any requirements for quarantine will be handled by Student Health
Services.
What if I have completed my program and am required to return home but I cannot return
because my country is designated as Level-3 on the CDC’s warning list for COVID-19?
Please refer U.S. Department of State on Travel Advisory Please know that the COVID-19 situation is very fluid and the government will update
its policies in response to the pandemic development.
Can nonimmigrant students participate in online classes?
SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) is committed to remaining flexible in
allowing schools to make temporary procedural adaptations so nonimmigrant students
can continue to make normal forward progress in their program of study. They can temporarily
engage in distance-learning, either from within the U.S. or outside the country, in
light of COVID-19. SEVP will provide updated guidance as additional information concerning
the scope and length of this situation becomes clearer.
Can nonimmigrant students participate in online classes from outside the U.S. and
still maintain their nonimmigrant status?
Yes, nonimmigrant students can temporarily engage in distance-learning, either from
within the U.S. or outside the country, in light of COVID-19. SEVP will provide updated
guidance as additional information concerning the scope and length of this situation
becomes clearer. More information can be found here, COVID-19: Guidance for SEVP Stakeholders
Will students be able to return to the United States if they are continuing their
studies outside of the country as a result of COVID-19?
Students who continue to make normal progress in their course of study remain eligible
for admission into the United States. However, because of the changing array of travel
restrictions, nonimmigrant students should refer to their local embassy’s website
through the U.S. Department of State for any updates about visa issuance. Also, DHS and CDC websites both provide information
about current travel restrictions to the United States.
