If you have been approved for a leave of absence by Northeastern University and you are ready to return to your studies, it is important that you work with OGS to update your SEVIS record or to request that a new SEVIS record be created for you. All F-1 and J-1 students must follow both University processes and OGS processes in order to resume studies at Northeastern follow a leave of absence.

Returning from a Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA)

Before you can work with OGS on your immigration record, you must first apply for and receive re-entry approval from University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS). This is a required first step — OGS cannot process your return until UHCS has approved your re-entry.

  1. Learn more about requesting re-entry from a MLOA on the UHCS website.
    • The UHCS re-entry process typically begins 30 days before the start of the academic term. Contact OGS as early as possible to discuss your timeline.
  2. Once UHCS has approved your re-entry, work with OGS to request an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019. 
  3. If you took your MLOA inside the U.S. and have an active SEVIS record
    • Check in with OGS to make sure your immigration record is up to date and to confirm that you are returning to classes.
    • You may also request an updated I-20
  4. If you took your MLOA outside the U.S. and do not have an active SEVIS record
    • Review Option 1 and Option 2 below and submit the appropriate e-form to request your new/updated I-20.

Returning from a Non-Medical Leave of Absence (NMLOA)

All students who wish to return from a NMLOA must request a new/updated I-20/DS-2019 before they plan their return to the U.S. Please do not attempt to travel back to the U.S. before completing this process!

You can learn more below about your options to request a new or updated I-20/DS-2019.

Option 1: Reactivation

Students who have been outside of the U.S. for less than 5 months may be eligible for Reactivation

Overview 

F-1 Students who have been outside of the U.S. for less than 5-months and who were terminated for Authorized Early Withdrawal (AEW) may be eligible to request the reactivation of their SEVIS record. Reactivation is adjudicated by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and is never guaranteed. If your Reactivation request is approved, then your previously terminated SEVIS record will be reactivated, and you will be able to return to the U.S. with the same SEVIS record that you previously studied with.

Process

  1. No more than 60-days prior to the start date of the academic term in which you will resume classes, you may submit the OGS e-form Return from Non-Medical Leave of Absence less than 5 months
  2. OGS will review your eligibility for Reactivation. If eligible, OGS will submit a letter to SEVP on your behalf to request the Reactivation of your SEVIS record.
  3. If your SEVIS record is successfully Reactivated, OGS will send you an updated I-20 that you may use to return to the U.S.
    • If your Reactivation is denied by SEVP, you must request a new Initial I-20. Please follow the instructions for this process below.
  4. If your visa has expired, apply for a new F-1 visa
  5. You must enroll in a full-time course load with appropriate on-ground presence in the term for which you return, even if you return for the summer.*
    • *If you are returning from a leave of absence and only have one or two courses remaining, you may be eligible for a final term reduced course load. Please consult with an OGS advisor to ensure the maintenance of F-1 student status.

If you have any questions regarding your return from a Leave of Absence or Reactivation, please contact OGS to schedule an appointment by calling +1-617-373-2310. You may also email the advisor that you worked with on your Leave of Absence request. 

Option 2: New Initial I-20/DS-2019

Students who have been outside of the U.S. for more than 5-months must request a new Initial I-20/DS-2019

Overview

All students who have been outside of the U.S. for more than 5-months during a leave of absence must request a new Form I-20/DS-2019 from OGS. This I-20/DS-2019 will have a new SEVIS ID. F-1 students will need to spend one academic year in valid status before gaining eligibility for CPT or OPT.

Process

  1. Complete the OGS e-form Re-entry I-20 Request 
  2. OGS will review your submission and create a new Initial I-20/DS-2019 that will be sent to your Northeastern email
  3. Pay the SEVIS fee online
  4. If your visa has expired or lists the name of another institution, apply for a new F-1/J-1 visa
  5. Complete the OGS Online Immigration Clearance after arrival in the U.S.

Important Reminders

Returning to the U.S. with an Initial I-20/DS-2019 may have an impact upon your eligibility for F-1/J-1 benefits such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and Academic Training. Federal regulations require that students complete at least one academic year (two semesters or three quarters) in order to be eligible for CPT or OPT. Please see the CPT and OPT pages of the OGS website for additional information on eligibility.

Key Resources

Return from Leave of Absence Less Than 5 Months »

This is to request a new I-20 to resume classes after a leave of absence of less than 5 months

Re-entry I-20 Request »

For students returning from leave and not eligible for reactivation, academic dismissal, or after a status violation.