Study Abroad and Research/Thesis Abroad
F-1 students who attend the certified CSU/SF State Bilateral Program or doing Research/Thesis abroad (Graduate Students only) can still maintain F-1 status while physically studying outside the U.S.
General Information
Attending CSU/SF State Bilateral Programs
F-1 students who attend the certified CSU/SF State Bilateral Program can still maintain F-1 status while physically studying outside the U.S. Since students are still maintaining F-1 status while studying abroad, they can return to the U.S. with their current I-20s. Students need to make sure that their passports, F-1 visas, and the travel signature on the I-20s are valid when they return to the U.S. after studying abroad.
OPT eligibility
F-1 students who attend the CSU/SF State Bilateral Program in the final semester of their program will NOT be eligible to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Attending Other Study Abroad Programs
F-1 students who plan to attend a non-CSU/SF State certified study abroad program will not be able to maintain F-1 status.
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Last updated: January 2024
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