Travel during the ongoing COVID pandemic can be risky. Travel restrictions/bans, quarantines, and COVID vaccine requirements are possible. The U.S. Embassies and Consulates in some countries have also not yet resumed routine visa processing. If you choose to travel internationally, be prepared and plan ahead for possible delays and disruptions. Regularly review our travel alerts information, as well as the other travel resources mentioned below.
If you decide to travel, be sure that you have the required documents for travel outside the U.S. and check page 2 of your I-20 for a valid travel endorsement signature (the signature is valid for one year for enrolled students).
Non-immigrant air travelers to the United States must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the U.S., with only limited exceptions. Review the CDC Air Travel to the US Requirements for additional details.
Please consider carefully your desire to travel internationally.
A travel endorsement is a signature from your Designated School Official (ISS advisor) on your I-20 or DS-2019. The signature serves as confirmation that you are maintaining F-1 or J-1 status. A valid travel endorsement is required for re-entry to the U.S., including trips to Canada.
Newly arrived students will not have a travel endorsement signature on their documents. It is important to request the travel endorsement before planning international travel!
F-1 students can find the travel endorsement section on their I-20, bottom of page 2.
J-1 Students can find the travel endorsement section on their DS-2019, page 1, lower right corner.
It is important to request a travel endorsement at least 10 business days before your trip. To request a travel endorsement, follow the instructions below:
Check our e-form processing page for current processing times and plan accordingly.