UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 2023
This page is no longer being updated. If you are seeking information about COVID-19, including what to do if you have symptoms or if you are seeking a vaccine, visit the University Health Services COVID-19 page.
For additional information about COVID-19, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dashboards of PCR test results on the UW campus from Fall 2020-Fall 2022 are still available for historical reference, as well as CRRSA and ARP Acts Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF II and HEERF III) Reports. For more information about UW’s response to COVID-19, contact contact-us@uc.wisc.edu.
Last Updated: July 26, 2022, 1:00 p.m. Central Standard Time
Review the ISS flowcharts for F-1 students.
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with an upcoming program start date.
-
Submit the F-1 Out of Country Reporting form as soon as you know you are unable to make it for your program start term so ISS can make the appropriate immigration update
-
- F-1 students continuing enrollment with an I-20 with a program start date before the upcoming term or change of education level I-20 for the upcoming term.
If you are traveling to Madison from outside the United States
Per the CDC International Travel guidelines, entry to U.S. requires full vaccination and negative COVID test results within one day.
Before travel to the U.S.
Proof of Accepted COVID-19 Vaccination: Air passengers are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. There are exceptions if you are from certain countries.
Testing: As of June 12, 2022, CDC no longer requires air passengers traveling from a foreign country to the U.S. to show a negative COVID-19 viral test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board their flight.
During travel to the U.S.
Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is no longer required in indoor areas such as airport, airplane, and public transportation, but is highly encouraged.
After Arriving in the U.S.
If you are fully vaccinated:
Get tested with a COVID-19 viral test 3-5 days after travel.
Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate and get tested if you develop symptoms.
If you are not fully vaccinated but were allowed to travel to the U.S. by air:
Get tested with a COVID-19 viral test 3-5 days after travel.
Isolate if your test result is positive or you develop COVID-19 symptoms.
You must become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 60 days of arriving in the U.S. or as soon as medically appropriate. UW-Madison offers no-cost vaccination for students.
Please read this page for International Travel Updates announcement from ISS. If you have questions about your situation, we encourage you to review the CDC’s website where you can answer questions to “find out if you can board a flight to the United States“. You can also review any of the following information:
We continue to monitor the impact of global, national, and university COVID-19 updates on F-1 and J-1 international students. The health, wellness, and safety of our students, staff, and community are our highest priority.
We will continue to update the FAQs below to align with the most recent federal guidance. Please refrain from asking additional questions until you have reviewed the information below.
COVID-19 Updates
Respect Statement
COVID-19 is not specific to an ethnicity or race—disease does not discriminate. Racist behaviors or stereotyping are not tolerated at UW–Madison. If you experience harassment or discrimination, students are encouraged to file a bias incident report. Employees may file a complaint with the Office of Compliance.
Recent Posts on COVID-19
U.S. Consular Services Suspended in China
Please be advised that all routine visa services at U.S. Embassies/Consulates in China, with few exceptions, have been cancelled due to the surge in COVID 19 infections across China. We recommend that you carefully consider …
December 29, 2022Negative COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers from China, Hong Kong, Macau beginning January 5, 2023
Starting January 5, 2023, all travelers from China, Hong Kong, and Macau must show a negative COVID test to enter the U.S. Travelers must test within two days of their scheduled departure to the U.S. Acceptable …
December 29, 2022Travel Update: US ends Covid-19 Testing Requirement to Enter Country
US will end Covid-19 testing requirement for air travelers entering the country. Learn more here.
June 10, 2022COVID Testing Update
PCR testing will be unavailable on campus from May 16–20 (the week following commencement). Test kits will also be unavailable for pick up. UHS will still be open for scheduled appointments during this time. Beginning …
April 29, 2022- More COVID-19 posts
Immigration Overview
See ISS Common Immigration Terms for International Students page to have a clear understanding of your immigration documents before reviewing the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.
ISS Services
ISS staff is available to serve you virtually from our individual alternate office spaces. Check here for campus operation updates.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Virtual Drop-in Advising
See our Drop-in Advising page for schedule updates and tips to prepare for advising.
Immigration Advising by Appointment
Advising appointments are not available for students to schedule during the winter break. Please see our virtual drop-in advising hours.
Immigration Document Updates
All immigration updates can be submitted through your Terra Dotta portal. We continue to process your I-20 and DS-2019 updates from our remote office locations. We strive to process your request within 15 business days (weekends and holidays are not included). Our adapted office locations have increased the time it takes for us to complete document processing.
You will receive an email through TerraDotta when the update is complete and your document has been mailed. A scanned copy of your signed document will be uploaded to your TerraDotta portal 2-3 days later.
New Students: If you experience TerraDotta login issues with your NetID and password, contact your admissions office to confirm:
- You are in admitted or matriculated status in the Student Information System.
- Your visa permit information is F-1 or J-1 with issuing authority “UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON”
- Your citizenship information has 2 rows (USA=”alien”; Enter country of citizenship on passport=”citizen” or “native”)
Updates made in the Student Center and SIS take up to 48 hours to update in TerraDotta.
Students should send a Terra Dotta Information Request to their assigned ISS advisor instead of sending an email! Do not send your email or Information Request to multiple ISS advisors, please! This takes a lot of staff time away from advising and I-20/DS-2019 requests.
We strive to answer your email inquiries in 3-5 business days. We are receiving a very high volume of emails and responses may be delayed.
Before you email, please check our website for your answers. You can find answers to your common questions for New Students and Current Students, including Employment Authorization. The search bar is great way to start your search. All COVID-19 related updates will be made on this page.
Include in your email to iss@studentlife.wisc.edu:
- full legal name
- NetID
- Student ID number
- A detailed question about your immigration status and information about your situation
TerraDotta
TerraDotta is your student immigration portal where you can complete immigration document update requests, schedule an appointment with ISS, read important messages from ISS, and find copies of your documents. Students login with their NetID and password.
New Students: If you experience TerraDotta login issues with your NetID and password, contact your admissions office to confirm:
- You are in admitted or matriculated status in the Student Information System.
- Your visa permit information is F-1 or J-1 with issuing authority “UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON”
- Your citizenship information has 2 rows (USA=”alien”; Enter country of citizenship on passport=”citizen” or “native”)
Updates made in the Student Center and SIS take up to 48 hours to update in TerraDotta.
Virtual Engagement Series
Check our schedule on the Events Calendar for upcoming virtual engagement opportunities.
Or go to our Get Involved page for recordings of past sessions.
In-person and phone services
ISS is here to serve you virtually! We encourage all students to seek virtual services.
Our phone line is monitored by our peer advising staff. No immigration advising is provided. Our peer advisors can provide you with the resources to find what you are looking for and answer questions about how to navigate your Terra Dotta portal.
Student Peer Advisors are available for in-person document pick-up and phone services.
Enrollment and Status
Student action items:
- Review the ISS flowcharts for F-1 students.
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with a program start date of the upcoming term
- Submit the F-1 Out of Country Reporting form so ISS can make the appropriate immigration update
- F-1 students continuing enrollment with an I-20 with a program start date before the upcoming term or change of education level I-20 for the upcoming term
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with a program start date of the upcoming term
- Enroll full time in your courses!
- Download the Spring 2023 Support Letter for Travel and Visa Acquisition if you are outside the U.S.
ISS staff are monitoring federal government guidance and university decisions to provide you with guidance to maintain your F/J visa status.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
I am a continuing student in my final semester. Am I required to enroll for one in-person course?
No. You should enroll in the number of credits you have remaining to complete your degree program and have an approved ISS Reduced Course Load (RCL) if you have less than your full-time requirement to complete in your final semester.
Can I request a letter to confirm UW-Madison's in-person instruction and my current enrollment for travel and visa interview? (updated 12/21/2021)
Download your Spring 2023 International Student Travel & Visa Acquisition Support Letter. You can attach this to your MyUW Student Center Enrollment Verification letter.
I am a dissertator outside of the U.S. Do I need permission?
Yes. Review the Worldwide, Worldwide research course through International Academic Programs. You will also need to submit a Travel Warning Waiver Request form for International Safety and Security.
I have been admitted for Fall 2022. Can I defer my admission? (updated 12/21/2021)
Request to change your semester of admission and do not enroll for Fall 2022. You may have to reapply for admission. Please contact your unit below for readmission information.
- Undergraduate students: Contact onwisconsin@admissions.wisc.edu
- Graduate/Professional students: Contact your program coordinator
- VISP/ Special students: Contact VISP@dcs.wisc.edu
My I-20/DS-2019 end date is approaching and I can't return home. What are my options?
ICE/SEVP have not extended the grace period for F/J students. Action needs to be taken before the end of your grace period in order to legally remain in the U.S. Be sure to document your efforts to depart the U.S. and return home.
Please refer to our Program Completion Checklist for a full list of options available to you when you complete your studies.
F-1/J-1 international students who have maintained their status have a grace period at the end of their studies. This grace period allows students to remain in the U.S. F-1 students earn a 60-day grace period, and J-1 students earn a 30-day grace period. This is calculated based on the end date of your I-20/DS-2019 or when you complete all degree requirements, whichever comes sooner.
If you applied for post-completion OPT, you can legally remain in the U.S. while your application is pending with USCIS, even if that is beyond your 60-day grace period.
I changed my address. Do I need to update ISS? (updated 12/21/2021)
Yes. You have 10 days to report any change in your U.S. address or permanent address outside of the U.S. Report your addresses changes in your Student Center.
Updates made in the Student Center and SIS take up to 48 hours to update in TerraDotta.
Is UW-Madison issuing initial attendance I-20s/DS-2019s to new students? (updated 12/21/2021)
Yes, I-20/DS-2019 documents are being issued to students for a Fall 2022 start date.
The I-20/DS-2019 can only be issued after you are admitted to the University and have activated your NetID.
Apply for your I-20/DS-2019 in the Terra Dotta Portal : Carefully read through your options, and select the request that best describes your situation.
What are my options for changing my visa status?
If you are currently in the U.S. on another visa status, such as F-2 or H4, and you need to change your visa status to F-1 or J-1, review your Change of Status options.
I am currently an F-2 dependent
- You can study part-time. No full-time enrollment is allowed.
- You are not eligible for on- or off-campus employment authorization.
I am currently a J-2 dependent
- You can study part-time or full-time.
- You must apply to USCIS for employment authorization to work on- or off- campus.
- If you are subject to 212(e) (2-year home residency requirement), you are not eligible to change status within the U.S. You may be eligible to apply for a 212(e) waiver.
I am in another visa status
- You must review your eligibility to study part-time or full-time and your eligibility for on- or off- campus employment.
I want to take classes in my home country or outside the U.S. Can I transfer my credits back to UW-Madison?
If you desire to enroll in a credit-bearing course(s) at a college or university in your home country for transfer to your program of study at UW-Madison, you will need to apply for a waiver to the international travel policy. This must take place prior to enrollment and travel. For information on this action, please contact International Academic Programs (IAP) as soon as possible to discuss your circumstances and the waiver process. IAP can answer your questions and help you navigate the waiver process. Please direct any non-approved programs questions to non-approved@studyabroad.wisc.edu.
Travel and (Re)Entry
Student action items:
- Review the ISS flowcharts for F-1 students.
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with a program start date of the upcoming term
- Submit the F-1 Out of Country Reporting form so ISS can make the appropriate immigration update
- F-1 students continuing enrollment with an I-20 with a program start date before the upcoming term or change of education level I-20 for the upcoming term
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with a program start date of the upcoming term
- Read the ISS International Travel Updates and Airline Checklist for Flights into the U.S.
- Download the Spring 2023 Support Letter for Travel and Visa Acquisition if you are outside the U.S.
- Frequently review global travel advisories before travel within and outside of the U.S. NAFSA: Association of International Educators has a good summary of U.S. travel restrictions.
- F/J visa acquisition – each consular post website is updated independently with up-to-date information. We have found a helpful resource that consolidates the information. ISS does not review or endorse the information provided.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
How can I get a travel signature while ISS is closed? (updated 12/21/2021)
You can submit a Reprint Request in your TerraDotta portal. ISS will reprint your I-20/DS-2019, give you and any dependents a travel signature, and upload a digitally signed I-20 to your Terra Dotta portal. Do not mail your I-20/DS-2019 to ISS!
Before you submit your Reprint Request, check your most recently issued I-20/DS-2019 to see if you need a new signature.
- For current F-1 students, choose “I-20 Reprint Request” on Terra Dotta
- For current J-1 students, choose “DS-2019 Reprint Request” on Terra Dotta
We do not always have a Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) available for in-person services. We urge you to submit a reprint request. You need a travel signature to re-enter the U.S., not to depart the U.S.
Where can I get a confirmation of my enrollment to help me travel to the U.S.? (updated 12/21/2021)
You can print your Enrollment Verification from your MyUW Student Center.
Download your Spring 2023 Support Letter for Travel and Visa Acquisition Letter.
Can I return to the U.S. to collect my belongings after my I-20/DS-2019 program end date?
You should look at entering the U.S. on a B-1/B-2 visitor visa or ESTA visa waiver program.
If your I-20/DS-2019 program end date is in the future and you have outstanding academic requirements to complete, you may enter with your I-20/DS-2019, valid F-1/J-1 visa, and other required travel documents.
If your I-20/DS-2019 program end date has passed and/or you do not have outstanding academic requirements to complete, you are not eligible to enter the U.S. as an F-1 or J-1 student with your current I-20 or DS-2019.
Are U.S. consulates open? (updated 12/21/2021)
See each U.S. consular website for up-to-date information. We have found a helpful resource that consolidates the information. ISS does not review or endorse the information provided.
Student visas may be considered essential at your local U.S. consulate. Your Form I-20 or DS-2019 is your UW-Madison support to apply for a visa for classes to start on January 25, 2022. We recommend that you carry proof of in-person enrollment or requirement to be on campus if you have an Initial status record.
Are there still travel restrictions? (updated 12/21/2021)
Restricted entry directly from seven southern African countries:
A U.S. presidential proclamation established restrictions on the entry of certain travelers into the U.S. Impacted countries under this proclamation are Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Nonimmigrant students on F-1 and J-1 visas who are physically present in one of these countries 14 days before entry to the U.S. cannot enter the U.S. under this presidential proclamation.
Review Global travel advisories regularly and check with your airline about any restrictions. We do not recommend that you travel to a third country to quarantine because of how quickly restrictions change.
Can I travel outside of the U.S. and come back? (updated 12/20/2021)
We encourage you to make the decision that is best for your health, safety, and well-being, and that of our global community. Before you plan your travel, consider
- Global travel advisories – This is a quickly evolving situation and travel restrictions around the world are updated with little notice.
- I-20/DS-2019 program end date and travel signature validity – Plan in advance if you need a program extension or new travel signature.
- F-1/J-1 visa expiration date – If your visa will be expired when you intend to return to the U.S., you will need to apply for a new F-1/J-1 visa. Many U.S. consulates are open for visa appointments but please be sure to check if your consulate will be open and the status for visa appointments.
- Your Vaccination status – Make sure that you have the proof of accepted COVID-19 Vaccination.
Continuing students with an Active SEVIS record can maintain lawful F-1 status while enrolled full-time outside the U.S.
If I am outside of the U.S. for more than 5 months, do I need to apply for a new visa? (updated 12/20/2021)
If you meet the following conditions, then you will not need to apply for a new F-1 or J-1 visa
- You remained enrolled full-time for Fall 2021
- Your I-20/DS-2019 is valid for Fall 2021
- Your current F-1/J-1 visa is valid at the time you plan to enter the U.S.
- You have not received written notice that your F-1/J-1 visa has been revoked (typically for legal trouble during your time in the U.S.)
The 5-month rule applies when a student has not been maintaining F-1/J-1 status for 5 or more months.
You can contact the U.S. consulate nearest you if you have questions about your visa validity.
I need COVID test results/medical clearance to return to my home country. How can I get a medical clearance letter?
For essential travel, University Health Services, located at 333 E Campus Mall, can provide you with COVID testing and/or medical clearance if this is required by the airline or country immigration/customs at your final destination. Contact uhs.wisc.edu/make-an-appointment or call 608-265-5600 for further evaluation.
Can the university expedite my visa application?
It is not possible for UW-Madison to intervene in regular visa application processes. U.S. Department of State has indicated that F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant student visa applications will be prioritized (along with medical professionals).
Can UW-Madison help me with a visa interview waiver?
There is no visa interview voucher or waiver that a school can issue to a student. UW-Madison is actively advocating for visa interview flexibilities for new students. Students with a current F-1 visa that expired within the past 48 months may be eligible to apply for a new F-1 visa without an interview requirement.
Your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 is your certificate of eligibility for your F-1 or J-1 student visa to attend UW-Madison. This is one of many forms and information the U.S. consular officer reviews to determine your eligibility for your F-1 or J-1 student visa. It is the decision of the consulate to review your application materials and require or waive your visa interview.
For new or re-entry students in Initial status, ISS recommends that you carry proof of in-person enrollment for Fall 2021.
Do I have to quarantine when I arrive to campus? (updated 12/20/2021)
If you are fully vaccinated:
- Get tested with a COVID-19 viral test 3-5 days after travel.
- Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate if your test result is positive or if you develop symptoms.
If you are not fully vaccinated but were allowed to travel to the U.S. by air:
- Get tested with a COVID-19 viral test 3-5 days after travel, unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.
- Stay at home or in your hotel room and self-quarantine for a full 7 days, even if you test negative, unless you have documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.
- Isolate if your test result is positive or you develop COVID-19 symptoms.
- You must become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 60 days of arriving in the U.S. or as soon as medically appropriate. UW-Madison offers no-cost vaccination for students.
If you recovered from a documented COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days (regardless of vaccination status), you do NOT need to get a test 3-5 days after travel. People can continue to test positive for up to 90 days after diagnosis and not be infectious to others. You also do not need to self-quarantine after travel. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms after travel, isolate and consult with a healthcare provider for testing recommendations.
Where can I find the wait time for visa appointments?
Each U.S. consulate will update wait times, hours, and required application materials on its website.
Can I apply for a new visa (or renew my visa) in a third country?
Maybe. Learn about options to apply, renew, or replace your immigration documents, including Third Country National applications. It is also important to review global travel advisories.
Financial Resources
The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) is the central office for emergency funding relief for all UW-Madison students, including international students.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
What emergency funding resources are available?
The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) is the central office for emergency funding relief for all UW-Madison students, including international students.
OSFA staff will assess your situation and connect you with eligible financial resources.
There are also additional community resources available to many students to help meet your basic needs.
Am I eligible to receive the stimulus check?
There is a lot of confusion about the stimulus check. Review our tax resources page for additional information about taxes.
ISS and UW-Madison cannot legally provide you with tax advice or assistance.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the best resource for accurate information.
The U.S. Economic Impact Payment (stimulus check) eligibility (See Question 11)
- You are a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien in 2021 for tax purposes
- You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
- You have a Social Security Number (SSN) that is valid for employment
- Your adjusted gross income qualifies
Individuals who are not eligible:
- You are a non-resident alien for tax purposes
- You filed Form 1040-NR, 1040-NR EZ to file your 2018 taxes
Some students may have received a payment in error. This might be due to incorrectly filed tax returns for 2019 or earlier. If you believe you received the stimulus payment or check in error, you should not spend the money. You should review the IRS website for instructions to return the money, specifically Question 41.
How do I know my residency for tax purposes?
Review your Glacier Tax Prep account and contact Glacier with any questions.
I didn't file my 2020 taxes. Can I still file?
The deadline to file without penalty for 2020 has passed.
If you have not filed taxes for 2020 or earlier, and you were in the U.S. during that time, you should file past tax returns as soon as possible.
Review our tax resources page for additional information about taxes.
ISS and UW-Madison cannot legally provide you with tax advice or assistance.
I departed the U.S. Am I still required to file my 2021 taxes? (updated 12/20/2021)
If you were physically present in the U.S. during the calendar year 2021, you will need to file with the IRS.
Review our tax resources page for additional information about taxes.
ISS and UW-Madison cannot legally provide you with tax advice or assistance.
Employment Authorization
ISS staff are monitoring federal government guidance to provide you with guidance to maintain your F/J visa status. We are only able to advise on F/J employment authorization.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
The Social Security Office is closed/I’m not able to visit the Social Security Office, how can I obtain my Social Security Number?
Call the local Social Security Office to schedule an emergency appointment.
Leave a voicemail for SSA to call you back to schedule an appointment. Do not mail your original documents to SSA!
Do not mail your original documents to the local Social Security Office.
Can international students who are unable to come to Madison get paid and receive tuition remission as graduate assistants?
Visit https://grad.wisc.edu/covid19/#international-students for additional information.
Graduate students with assistantship appointments need to make every effort to return to campus or telecommute from within the U.S. Individuals who cannot return to the campus or the U.S. due to immigration issues may be permitted to telecommute internationally under certain circumstances. Individual graduate students need to work closely with their admitting graduate program and that program’s Human Resources office.
International telecommuting is prohibited from countries deemed to pose the highest risk associated with export control: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the Republic of Sudan.
This guidance applies to international graduate students with research (RA), teaching (TA), and project (PA) assistantships as well as fellowships.
Can international students begin/maintain their 'on campus' employment remotely from outside the U.S.? (added 5/9)
- There is no immigration status established because the student remains outside the U.S.
- The I-20/DS-2019 program start date will change from 9/2/2020 to the start date when face-to-face instruction for full-time enrollment is expected to resume (campus decision)
- No I-94 arrival record. This document establishes status in the U.S.
- Student may not have a SSN. Without establishing F-1/J-1 status, they will be ineligible to apply as an F-1/J-1 student.
- The student is not subject US student visa regulations, such as on-campus employment restrictions.
- Students may maintain their F-1 immigration status and are encouraged to do so. They may be in the U.S. or outside the U.S.
- Advised to follow rules of US student visa regulations, such as on-campus employment restrictions.
- A student may be without the documents listed in section 1 (for new hires).
If I am taking remote courses, can I work more than 20 hours per week?
There is no regulatory change or additional federal guidance to relax the rule for on-campus employment.
On-campus employment is limited to 20 hours per week or less during the fall and spring semesters. You may work more than 20 hours per week during authorized vacation periods (summer break, winter break, and spring break).
Can I work off-campus?
You must have proper employment authorization to engage in any off-campus employment, internship, co-op, or other practical training opportunity.
Is OPT processing or authorization suspended?
OPT applications continue to be processed by USCIS. If you have a valid EAD card, you are authorized to continue using the EAD card for employment authorization.
USCIS launched an online I-765 that F-1 students applying for OPT or OPT STEM Extension are eligible to submit. You may need a copy of UW-Madison’s institutional accreditation. You can download the letter of reaccreditation and attach it to your online I-765.
Is USCIS still processing OPT and other employment authorization applications?
According to the website, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is still processing applications. In-person services are temporarily suspended. Applying for OPT is not an in-person service.
You can review current processing times and check your case status online.
Can I apply for OPT outside of the U.S.?
It is not recommended for two reasons.
- When you sign your Form I-765, Part 3, there is a note that you must file Form I-765 while in the United States. You are subject to the written penalties if you knowingly falsify or conceal information.
- Your I-94 is a required document to submit with your OPT application. You do not have an I-94 if you are outside of the U.S.
I am currently on OPT and I am nearing my 90 days of unemployment. Is there an extension?
There is currently no federal guidance relaxing the 90 days of unemployment. We recommend that you review the same options as after your OPT and take action before you reach 90 days of unemployment.
You can report employment, including volunteer positions, under 20 hours per week as full-time enrollment.
https://www.ice.gov/coronavirus
Can I travel with a valid EAD card on post-completion OPT?
The same travel advice and requirements still apply.
Please be aware of all travel restrictions and advisories and inform your employer or be aware of your company’s policy for traveling.
I am currently outside the U.S. and I cannot return to continue my OPT employment. What can I do?
First, ask your employer if you can work remotely online and maintain your employment. If this is possible, you will continue to maintain your OPT.
If remote work is not possible, you can end your OPT early. Take action on your immigration record by reviewing your options after OPT or requesting ISS to complete your I-20 record.
I may be furloughed. Will this impact my OPT/ STEM extension?
A furlough is a leave of absence. The F-1 regulations state:
“A student may not engage in practical training for less than 20 hours per week, excluding time off taken consistent with leave-related policies applicable to the employer’s similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment.”
This implies that if your company is furloughing employees due to COVID-19, you should be able to maintain status and would not necessarily be accruing unemployment.
Can my employer and I electronically sign Form I-983 Training Plan for my OPT STEM Extension application?
Form I-983 requires ink signatures from the student and employer, per the Form I-983 itself. There has been no additional guidance allowing for electronic signatures on the Form I-983.
Do I have to update my employer information if I am working remotely from home instead of physically at my office location?
No. You do not need to submit an employer information update to ISS. If you are on OPT STEM Extension, you do not have to submit an updated Form I-983 Training Plan.
Can I work less than 20 hours on OPT and maintain my F-1 status?
Yes. Any employment, including volunteer, under 20 hours per week will count toward your full-time employment requirement for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. You must report your employment and address updates to ISS within 10 days of any change.
Health, Wellness, and Safety
Our campus and greater Madison community are still here for you during this time. There are many free ways to stay involved and stay healthy. All campus updates relating to COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and campus health protocols can be found on the COVID-19 Response page.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Mental Health Resources
We understand that this global pandemic leaves us with many uncertainties. Our colleagues at University Health Services have shared a few tools that you may use as you navigate this challenge.
- Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty
- Psychology Tools has created this free guide to help coach you through worry and anxiety. It is translated into multiple languages.
- Managing our Mental Health & Staying Well during a Virus Outbreak
- mindhk has created this tool to help with coping during the global pandemic. It is also translated into multiple languages.
How can I stay active and promote wellness?
RecWell has several resources to keep us all active and involved!
Does my Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) extend through my grace period? (updated 12/21/2021)
For international students that were enrolled for the Fall 2021 semester, SHIP coverage ends on January 14, 2022. That is the default.
SHIP members can also request a pro-rated refund of their SHIP premium from the end date of their visa. In that case, SHIP is refunded from the 15th of the month following the visa end date. For example, for a visa ending on May 8, SHIP coverage would run through May 14, and three months of premium (May 15 to August 14) would be refunded. Additional information is available on page 23 of the Plan Document.
Do I have to tell UW I am vaccinated? (updated 12/21/2021)
No. However, if you do not upload your record, you will be required to do weekly testing. Here is the reason why you need to participate in weekly testing.
We encourage the entire campus community to upload their vaccination record to MyUHS. All records are confidential. Sharing this info helps us make the best decisions to keep our community safe.
Am I required to have a COVID-19 vaccine to live, work or study at UW-Madison? (updated 12/21/2021)
UW-Madison public health and vaccine recommendations are included on the COVID-19 Response page.
At this time, vaccinations are not required to study. However, effective January 4, 2022, all UW-Madison employees, including student hourly employees, must provide proof of vaccination or receive a medical or religious exemption. If you plan to work on UW-Madison campus, you must be vaccinated.
I was vaccinated outside the U.S. Will UHS accept proof of vaccination received outside the U.S.?
University Health Services (UHS) has provided instructions to upload proof of your vaccination to your MyUHS account. UHS will accept vaccines recognized for emergency use by the World Health Organization. Vaccines not currently authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO can still be uploaded and reviewed by UHS staff.
Do not send ISS your vaccine information. Only upload your information to you MyUHS.
I am partially vaccinated, how do I continue or restart the vaccination process when I arrive?
UHS will recognize vaccines maintained on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) emergency use listing. If that vaccine is not on the WHO list by the time you arrive in the U.S., you will be able to get an FDA-approved vaccine. Similarly, if there are recommendations for boosters or additional prevention measures with your initial vaccine, we will try to facilitate with FDA-approved vaccines.
Many of you are also eligible for COVID-19 booster shots available at University Health Services (UHS) at no cost.
I am an international student traveling to Madison from outside the United States – do I need to test for COVID-19 before leaving? (updated 12/21/2021)
Per the CDC International Travel guidelines, all passengers coming to the United States by air, including fully vaccinated people, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result within one day of travel to the U.S.
Before travelling to the U.S., make sure that you have:
- A proof of Accepted COVID-19 Vaccination: Air passengers are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. There are exceptions if you are from certain countries.
- Tested Negative for COVID-19 test within one day of travel to the U.S.
Housing & Basic Needs
University Housing, Dining Services, and University Apartments remain operational for students who remain with us on campus. Off campus housing and local resources are also available.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Will there be on-campus housing for the upcoming term?
You can review the Housing website for application and safe move-in resources.
I do not have a place to live in Madison. Can you help? (updated 12/21/2021)
For off-campus housing Campus Area Housing (CAH) can assist. CAH maintains an online listing of available privately-owned housing units located near campus. The office can also connect you with a variety of off-campus housing-related resources. Please visit the website for a full list of current vacancies. If you have questions or would like assistance with your search, please email campusareahousing@uwmad.wisc.edu or call 608-263-2452. Please see this document for Housing for immediate move-in.
Other Off-campus housing search resources:
- Campus Area Housing resources:
- Sublet and Roommate Board on Facebook (not campus-affiliated)
- Transfer Student resources:
Are there food options available in Madison?
The Open Seat (On Campus Food Pantry)
The Open Seat works hard to come up with a plan for providing boxes of food to be picked up at various locations on campus. Updates can be found on their website
The Keep Food Pantry (On Campus)
The Keep is in the basement of Luther Memorial Church. They are available on Thursdays from 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Bring along your student ID.
Catholic Multicultural Center Food Pantry
Grab and go meals available daily – Monday – Friday 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. CMC food pantry is available in their parking lot on Tuesday 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and Thursday 10:30 am – 12:00 pm.
Grace Food Pantry – Grace Episcopal Church
Located near the Capitol. Food will be given outside of the building. Distribution is scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 1:00 pm – 3:00pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Bring a form of ID for all members in the family. They may decide to cancel this program, so please call ahead or check the website.
The River Food Pantry – COVID-19 Emergency Food Fund
Prepared boxes of groceries will be available for pick up curbside. Curbside pick-up distribution hours will be Monday–Thursday from 10:00am–5:00pm and Friday from 2:00 pm – 7:00pm.
Fritz Food Pantry – Goodman Community Center
Will be distributing pre-packaged bags of food in the Ironworks driveway circle in a drive-thru or walk-up style. Hours are Tuesday 9:30 am – 12:00 pm, Wednesday 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, and Thursday 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm.
Lussier Community Education Center
LCE asks for individuals to stay in their vehicles or outside and they will deliver bags of food to you. There are no limits on pantry visits during this time. Distribution is available Wednesdays 7pm – 8pm and Saturdays 12pm – 1pm.
Issues We Are Tracking
There is a lot that remains unknown about the future. ISS is aware of the stress all of this uncertainty may cause and how this impacts your ability to make plans for the future. We will continue to update this page as we receive additional guidance from federal government agencies and campus.
STUDENT ACTION ITEM: Review the ISS flowcharts for F-1 students.
-
- F-1 students with Initial Attendance or Transfer-pending I-20 with a program start date of the upcoming term
- F-1 students continuing enrollment with an I-20 with a program start date before the upcoming term or change of education level I-20 for the upcoming term
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Will there be a temporary relaxation for online/remote enrollment for Fall 2021 (updated 4/30)
The Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) announced continued flexibilities for the 2021-2022 academic year. The flexibilities depend on your SEVIS status. ISS will email specific action steps to you depending on your SEVIS status. We will also update flowcharts to help follow your options.
When U.S. consulates reopen and resume processing student visas (updated 11/18)
Any updates and announcements about visa processing and continuation of consular office services will be posted on each consular post website and broader messages may appear on the U.S. Department of State page. We have found a helpful resource that consolidates the information. ISS does not review or endorse the information provided.
ISS is monitoring the situation and advising students on a case-by-case basis.
Extension of grace periods, employment authorization, and I-20 end date without academic necessity
ISS has not received regulatory guidance to allow for looser restrictions on these frequently requested needs
- Extended grace period – you are still expected to depart the U.S. or take action on your immigration record before your grace period ends.
- Extend I-20 without academic necessity – you need to follow the same eligibility requirements to extend your program of study as an F-1 student.
- J-1 students: Department of State automatically extended DS-2019 end dates for 60 days for students still in the U.S. Only documents with an original program end date between 4/1/2020-5/31/2020 are eligible for the extension.
- Extend post-completion OPT authorization – you are still expected to follow the traditional options available when your post-completion OPT is ending. There has been no guidance to allow for more unemployment days.
Will I-20/DS-2019 copies be accepted for visa processing and entry to the U.S.
Yes. Department of State and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have verbally confirmed that digitally signed or scanned copies of signed I-20s will be accepted for the purpose of visa processing and entry to the U.S. Electronic signatures on DS-2019s is not allowed and the original document is required.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) guidance states that I-20s issued electronically do not have to be updated or replaced with a hard-copy until there is an I-20 update that requires a reprint of the document when COVID guidance has expired.
ISS will issue electronically signed I-20s for future I-20 updates. Electronically issued I-20s will be uploaded to the student’s Terra Dotta portal.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) provided guidance to allow Designated School Officials (DSOs) to digitally sign or scan signed copies of I-20s. ISS will upload electronically signed copies of I-20s to a student’s TerraDotta portal. This action will trigger an email to the student. ISS will not email scanned copies to the student. ISS can mail the original document, if requested.
Are you sure we will be in-person for fall semester?
The university is planning to resume in-person instruction in the fall. For more information on the coming semester, view the webpage on What to expect this fall.
Is it mandatory to get a COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the U.S.? (updated 12/21/2021)
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines.
Are there still travel restrictions to U.S.? (updated 12/21/2021)
Restricted entry directly from seven southern African countries:
A U.S. presidential proclamation established restrictions on the entry of certain travelers into the U.S. Impacted countries under this proclamation are Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Nonimmigrant students on F-1 and J-1 visas who are physically present in one of these countries 14 days before entry to the U.S. cannot enter the U.S. under this presidential proclamation.
Review Global travel advisories regularly and check with your airline about any restrictions. We do not recommend that you travel to a third country to quarantine because of how quickly restrictions change.