Important Travel Tips Within and Outside the U.S.

Traveling Outside the U.S. Travel Endorsement

Whenever F-1 or J-1 students wish to leave the U.S. temporarily and return to continue studies at the institution in which they are enrolled, they must secure the necessary documents to permit entry to country of destination and re-entry to the U.S.

Students on an F-1 or J-1 student visa must obtain a travel endorsement (signature) by their school’s Principal or Designated School Official (F visa) or Responsible or Alternate Responsible Office (J visa) in order to re-enter the U.S after their travel.  

Make sure your I-20 /DS2019 is endorsed (signed) before you travel.

A travel endorsement is valid for one year within your program period. To request a travel endorsement, complete a Travel Endorsement request in GPS.

It is the students' responsibility to make any travel requests in a timely manner in order to give the Designated School Official enough time to approve the request.

Returning to the U.S.

If you are in need of a U.S. re-entry Visa be aware of wait times at your local embassy before you travel. Visit the website and click on “Get US Visa” to enter your city and see the wait time at your local embassy. Note the wait times are subject to change.

Travel Within the U.S.

Non-US citizens should carry their passports at all times while traveling within the U.S. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months into the future. It is recommended that you carry a copy of your I-20 or DS-2019 document as well. These documents should be carried during all trave and should not be placed in checked baggage.

‱ Do not carry your Social Security card with you. Keep it in a safe location available to you only.

‱ A state ID that meets the federal requirements of Real ID may substitute for your passport for travel within the US

  • Additional documents that may be useful when traveling:
    • Transcripts
    • Enrollment verification or proof of registration for the next semester
    • Current proof of financial support

If on OPT or STEM-OPT Visa

You will need to travel with EAD card and either job offer letter or recent pay stub from employer is recommended.