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How might I lose my F-1 status?
You may lose your F-1 status in one of several ways, including:
by failing to extend your F-1 student program before your I-20 completion date
by failing to notify USCIS in a timely fashion of a change of degree levels
by failing to maintain full-time academic registration without a documented reason acceptable to the USCIS
by working in violation of F-1 status, e.g.: more than 20 hours per week while registered for study; by working off-campus without authorization; or working while registered for less than a full-time academic load without authorization.
if you are a transfer student, by failing to complete your transfer to the UW-Madison within 45 days of arrival at U.W.
What are the consequences of being out of status?
Students who are out of status are not eligible for any of the benefits of F-1 status, including permission to work or eligibility for practical training.
How can I get back into F-1 status?
If you have lost status as a result of any of the reasons listed above EXCEPT by working in violation of F-1 status, you may apply for reinstatement within the US. If you lost status as a result of working in violation of your F-1 status please consult an advisor.
How do I apply for reinstatement within the U.S. if I have not worked in violation of my F-1 status?
Bring your passport and your original I-20 to ISS.
Complete an Application For Reinstatement I-20 and an I-539 Form. Both forms are available at ISS. On Part 2, 1a of the I-539, clearly write "re-instatement."
ISS will issue you a new I-20 for reinstatement.
You will then apply to USCIS Chicago for reinstatement. See the instructions attached to the ISS application.
Am I allowed to work again after BCIS approves my reinstatement?
You will be eligible to work on campus immediately after USCIS approves your reinstatement. If you were a full-time student for nine consecutive months before you became "out of status," you will also be eligible to apply for practical training immediately after USCIS approves your reinstatement.
What if I am out of the US for five months or more?
USCIS ends your F-1 status when you are outside the U.S. for five months or more. You must apply for a new I-20. When you enter the U.S. you will begin your F-1 status. After two semesters or nine months, you will again be eligible for F-1 benefits, such as practical training.
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