International Student Services

Reinstatement

Reinstatement refers to an appeal to reinstate F-1 status. This can be done for anyone who has recently had their SEVIS record terminated.

Reinstatement requests are considered on a case by case basis. If the DSO cannot support your request, ISS will not respond to a second request.

Requesting reinstatement

  • You must request an appointment with an advisor in ISS at UWB to talk about the process.
  • Your termination must have happened within the past 5 months.
  • You must not have repeated violations.
  • You must be enrolled in a full course load and be in good academic status.
  • You must not have registration holds of any kind.
  • You must write a letter of explanation, detailing the cause of violation was because of unexpected reasons beyond your control.
  • You must be prepared to submit new financial documents to support one academic year.

Submit your reinstatement request to the international student portal.

Please note

  • If you have been unresponsive to UWB communication, especially ISS communication, you will not be considered for reinstatement.
  • If you have taken no action to remedy a registration hold, you will not be considered for reinstatement.
  • If your academic record shows a history of willful violations or not attending class, you will not be considered for reinstatement.

How to apply

  • If the DSO approved your request, you will be issued a new I-20.
  • You will use this I-20 to complete an online I-539 with USCIS.
  • USCIS will review your case, including your letter of explanation.
    • You must respond to any request for evidence sent by USCIS.
  • If approved by USCIS, your SEVIS record will be returned to active status.

While waiting

  • You are permitted to remain in the US.
  • If you leave the US, you will not be able to re-enter as an F-1 student.
  • You must remain in a full course load and comply with all F-1 regulations.
  • You will not be eligible for F-1 benefits until USCIS approval.
  • This process can take anywhere from 9 – 12 months (or more) depending on the caseload at USCIS. If your case has not been adjudicated by the time you complete your degree, we advise to leave the US or contact an attorney for more advice. There is an option for premium processing to expedite your case which is more expensive but takes less time.

Approval

You must inform ISS as soon as you receive approval.

  • You will receive an approval notification by mail from USCIS. Make sure you’re checking your mail.