International Students

Student working on art project in the art classroom.
Student working on art project in the art classroom.

We welcome students of diverse backgrounds from around the world!

University of the Cumberlands welcomes international students from over 40 countries in both our undergraduate and select graduate programs.  From maintaining your international student status to participating in orientation programs and international student association events, UC has a variety of support resources available to help you excel!

Getting Started Internationally

Getting Started Internationally

We welcome all international students. Regardless of citizenship or geographic location, all applicants must complete the application.

Getting Started as an Undergraduate Student

  1. Complete your Cumberlands application as an on campus undergraduate student
  2. Prepare all required documents including transcript evaluation and translation along with English proficiency scores. 
  3. Learn more about the F-1 visa process and how to maintain status – you can review this information further down the page. 
  4. After receiving an admission decision and paying your enrollment deposit, complete your I-20 request form through UC Global. Keep in mind, you will need to upload a bank statement showing sufficient funding for the year. If you have a sponsor, you will also need to complete the Affidavit of Support. Your application may take a few days for your DSO to process. 
  5. Request your official I-20 through MyEduDocs. The UPS mailing cost must be paid directly to MyEduDocs shipping service by credit card (Visa, Mastercard or Discover cards only).
  6. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
  7. Schedule an appointment at your local US Embassy or Consulate as soon as you receive your official I-20. Make sure you review how to prepare for your visa interview and check appointment wait times at your embassy. 
  8. Apply for housing.
  9. Once your visa is approved, you can begin making travel arrangements! Complete your airport pick up form and review your pre-departure guide. 
  10. Register for orientation and meet with your Student Success Coordinator regarding scheduling classes. 
     

For any questions, please email the admissions [at] ucumberlands.edu (Office of Undergraduate Admissons) or Courtnie.kirby [at] ucumberlands.edu (Office of Student Affairs) or call 606-539-4245. 

Undergraduate non-native English-speaking applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency for admission to the university through submission of an official test score report from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or a report from Duolingo. Requirement is waived if transferring from a U.S. institution. 

The minimum acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores for admission are: 

  • ACT – 17
  • SAT – 920
  • TOEFL (internet-based) – 65
  • IELTS – 6
  • Duolingo - 95 

Prospective international students are required to submit official transcripts demonstrating the level of education completed (high school or postsecondary) prior to being considered for admission by the university. Transcripts from institutions in the United States may be sent directly from the institution. All transcripts from institutions outside of the United States must be evaluated by one of the transcript evaluation services listed below:

The cost of a transcript evaluation varies depending on the detail involved in the evaluation. Most general evaluations cost $75 - $150, while course-by-course evaluations (required for students transferring from foreign colleges and universities) cost $150 - $250. Please be aware that transcript evaluations based on unofficial transcripts or in-progress coursework are acceptable for admission to the university, but official transcripts that include completed course information are required prior to enrollment.

Prospective students are also required to demonstrate English proficiency for admission to the university.

You can submit documentation to admissions [at] ucumberlands.edu (admissions[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu) or upload to your Patriot Portal. 

International undergraduate students will need to complete several forms to make the transition from your country of origin to the United States. The forms and information detailed below will help get you started. Make sure you reach out to us with any questions you may have. 

  • SSN Card Form 
    If you need to upload a copy of your SSN card, please login to your Work Day account. Select Profile -> ID’s -> then upload a copy of your SSN card. If you have questions about this process, you may reach out to registrar [at] ucumberlands.edu (registrar[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu) 
  • DMV Request Form
    DMV Letter Request for currently enrolled students. Contact courtnie.kirby [at] ucumberlands.edu (courtnie[dot]kirby[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu) for information and assistance. 
  • Process for Letter of Invitation
    Please reference this information to invite your relatives and/or friends to visit you in the United States. This link also includes information related to the graduation commencement ceremony.  
  • Travel Information
    Please refer to this information for assistance with travel-related questions and documents.    
  • UC Affidavit of Support
    To be completed if you are applying for a Form I-20 and are submitting financial documents that are not in your name. 

Graduate Admission Requirements

Documentation of language fluency for non-native speakers of English, such as a score report from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the 8 International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or a report from Duolingo. This requirement is waived for students who have completed bachelor’s or master’s level coursework in the U.S. at an accredited institution.

The minimum acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores for admission are: 

  • Paper-based TOEFL (PBT) - 550 
  • Internet-based TOEFL (IBT) - 79 
  • IELTS - 6
  • Duolingo - 100

Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts demonstrating the level of education completed (high school or postsecondary) prior to being considered for admission by the university. Transcripts from institutions in the United States may be sent directly from the institution. All transcripts from institutions outside of the United States must be evaluated by one of the transcript evaluation services listed below:

The cost of a transcript evaluation varies depending on the detail involved in the evaluation. Most general evaluations cost $75 - $150, while course-by-course evaluations (required for students transferring from foreign colleges and universities) cost $150 - $250. Please be aware that transcript evaluations based on unofficial transcripts or in-progress coursework are acceptable for admission to the university, but official transcripts that include completed course information are required prior to enrollment.

Prospective students are also required to demonstrate English proficiency for admission to the university.

Admitted International Students

Congratulations on your admission to the University!  Now that you are admitted, you need to complete several additional steps in order to receive your I-20 and apply for your F-1 student visa. All non-immigrant visitors are required to have a valid visa (*except Canadians) in their passport to be allowed entry into the U.S.   For general information, see the U.S. Department of State website.

To get an F-1 Entry Visa

1. Obtain I-20 (F-1) From  The University Of The Cumberlands

  • You will receive an I-20 form directly from your Admissions Counselor for completion.
  • Submit your financial documentation to the Office of Admissions that demonstrates funding for your first year of enrollment.   
  • If you have dependents traveling to the US with you, complete F2 dependent request form.
  • Complete the MyEduDocs request (see below for more information)

2. Check The Current Wait Times For Visa Appointments And Issuance In Your City.

3. Pay The SEVIS Fee.

4. Make A Visa Appointment And Go To An Interview At A U.S. Embassy Or Consulate.

*Canadian Citizens: Canadian citizens are not required to apply for a visa to enter the U.S. as an F-1, but must still pay the SEVIS Fee and present their I-20 at the port of entry to the US.

Read the U.S. Department of State web site for more information about the visa application process and Temporary Visitors to the U.S.
 
Visa Wait Times

Since visa processing times can be very lengthy, please make the appointment as early as possible. Consulate offices will typically accept appointments up to four months prior to the start of studies. There may be long waiting periods for appointments during peak times (May through August). Check The Current Wait Times For Visa Appointments And Issuance In Your City.

When going to the visa interview, be sure to bring:

  • Passport (valid at least six months into the future)
  • Certificate of Eligibility I-20 (F-1)
  • Your admission letter from the University of the Cumberlands
  • Evidence of financial support
  • Visa application forms and fees
  • SEVIS Fee Receipt (F-1)

*Please note, some consulates may require additional documentation, so check the consulate web site for visa application instructions.


 

The UPS mailing cost must be paid directly to MyEduDocs shipping service by credit card (Visa, Mastercard or Discover cards only). To request express mailing of your documents, go to the following secure website: https://ucumberlands.myedudocs.com/ 

Please carefully enter your identifying information when registering for an account with MyEduDocs.  

Please pay close attention to the information submitted, as errors in the credit card information or submitting incorrect or incomplete address information will result in a delay of your I-20 being mailed.

If you have questions about how to use this service, please contact the DIGS Office.

Travel Information

Important Travel Information

THE U.S. IMMIGRATION SERVICE HAS AN INFORMATION SHEET THAT PROVIDES USEFUL INFORMATION ON WHAT AN F-1 STATUS INDIVIDUAL CAN EXPECT UPON ARRIVAL AT A U.S. PORT OF ENTRY. IT IS HELPFUL TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT THIS FORM TO CARRY WITH YOU AS YOU TRAVEL TO THE U.S. DOWNLOAD INFORMATION SHEET

**All information is subject to change without notice.

Directions to University of the Cumberlands

Cumberlands is located in Williamsburg, Kentucky.  Williamsburg is located at Exit 11 on Interstate 75.  If you are traveling from the north, then you will turn left after taking the exit.  If you are traveling from the south, you will turn right after taking the exit.  At the first traffic light, turn left.  Travel on this street to the top of the hill where you will come to a traffic light at Main Street.  Turn right at this light.  Travel a short distance to the main entrance to the university.  Turn right.  Immediately on the left is the Bock Security and Information Building.  You can stop at this building for additional directions to the buildings where you want to visit.  (Office of International Relations, Residence Halls, etc.)

Pre-Arrival Information

Take these steps before you arrive…

  • Submit all required university forms.  download here
  • Submit your $1,000 non-refundable tuition deposit.
  • If you have not already paid the balance due for your charges in advance, these fees must be paid in full at the time of registration.  Arrange to send or take funds with you. DO NOT TRAVEL WITH LARGE AMOUNTS OF CASH.  Local banks do not exchange currency from different countries.  It is best to make arrangements to pay funds with Travelers Checks or by Credit Card.

**NOTE – If you intend to pay your fees by Credit Card, be sure to check with your bank about raising the daily amount that can be charged to the credit card.  Many banks put daily limits on cards as a security measure for your protection.  With these limits in place, it is not possible to pay a large on-time payment on your account.  Please make the necessary arrangements to insure that you can make the payment on arrival.  If this is not possible, it would be best to pay the amount due in advance.  To make an advance payment by credit card, click here.

Your expected date of arrival on campus is listed as the Program Start Date on your I-20 form.  It is important that you make plans to arrive by this date so you can participate in our welcome, registration and orientation programs.   

If you have not yet received your I-20 form, you may want to contact Undergraduate Admissions to check on your expected arrival date by emailing: admissions [at] ucumberlands.edu (admissions[at]ucumberlands[dot]edu).

As you make travel arrangements to ensure that you arrive by the expected arrival date, be sure to also check the appropriate departure date for the end of the semester or the end of the academic year.  Your scheduled departure date should be the earliest opportunity after the last date of your final examinations for the semester.  Final exams are given during the week following the last day of class.  To view the academic calendar, click here

University of the Cumberlands is located in Williamsburg, Kentucky.  Williamsburg is centrally located between Lexington, Kentucky (2 hours from campus) and Knoxville, Tennessee (1½ hours from campus). It is conveniently located just off Interstate 75 at Exit 11. 

For more information on traveling to campus, please visit our Transportation Information page. That page provides information on travel to and shuttle services from a regional airport as well as alternate travel information. 

 **Note: If you will be participating on an athletic team, be sure to communicate with your coach before making your flight arrangements. Student athletes who will participate in fall sports are often required to arrive on campus for practice sessions a few weeks prior to the beginning of the school semester (which is prior to the Program Start Date on your I-20 form).

Residence Hall Check-in 

Residence Halls open for international students on the expected date of arrival. Students who arrive before the residence halls open must make their own arrangements for off-campus housing until the residence halls open (see local hotel information below). Students are responsible for the cost of housing and their meals until the Residence Halls are open.

Residence Halls and room assignments are assigned on a first come first served basis, as Housing applications are received. In order to reserve a room, we must have the required forms completed as soon as possible, but not later than 2 weeks before you leave your home country:

**NOTE:  Residence Halls and campus food services close for extended breaks between the fall and spring semesters (Mid December through Mid January), during the first week university spring break (Mid March), and throughout the summer (Early May until Mid August).  Students should make advance plans for their housing and meals during this time. 

Depending on the length of the break, some students make the following arrangements:

  • Return home (extended breaks and summer)
  • Stay in a local hotel and eat at local restaurants at their own expense. (shorter breaks)
  • Travel to visit with friends or family in the US. (shorter breaks and extended breaks)

Packing for your trip...

  • Buy two good suitcases (as large as possible within size limitations)
  • Put identification marks and labels on the bags
  • Items to Have in Your Checked Baggage:

      -  Copies of all certificates/documents
      -  Medical history files
      -  Essentials (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc)
      -  Clothing  (see What to Bring)

Items to Have in Your Carry On Baggage:
Having a carry-on bag is always a good idea, in case luggage is delayed or lost

  • Original important documents (I-20, visa, tickets, passport, etc)
  • Medication (if applicable)
  • Reading materials for flight
  • Money and Travelers Checks (Arrange to send or take funds with you to pay for the tuition fees.)
  • Computer (if you plan to bring one with you)
  • Eye glasses and prescription

Items to Keep With You (pocket, purse, etc):

  • Emergency contact list
  • Traveler's Checks and cash

Items to Leave at Home:

  • Address & phone number where you can be reached
  • Copies of all important documents (passport, I-20, medical record)

A Week Before Your Flight...

  • Check your flight schedule to see if there are any delays or changes  (Notify the UC Office of Student Services if there are any changes)
  • Rest well for the long journey

On the Day of Your Flight...

  • Wear something comfortable  (visit www.weather.com to learn about weather/temperature)
  • Be at the airport 3-4 hours before departure
  • Collect $20-$30 cash at the airport (part of it in $1 bills)
  • Sleep as much as possible during the flight

Hotel Information

If you arrive in Williamsburg before your expected arrival date, or need temporary accommodations during a break, you may wish to make a reservation at one of these local hotels:

Hampton Inn
510 Highway 92 W
Williamsburg, KY
606.549.3775

Holiday Inn Express
56 Highway 92 W
Williamsburg, KY 40769
606.549.1300

Super 8 Hotel
30 Highway 92 W
Williamsburg, Ky
606.549.3450

If you are scheduled to arrive later than 10:00 p.m. at Lexington or Knoxville airports, you will need to check the airport websites for information about nearby hotel options.  Once you have made these arrangements, be sure to contact the Office of Student Services about where you are staying so they will know where to pick you up.

Please submit your travel arrangements at least two (2) weeks prior to your anticipated arrival to Student Services.  More information can be found on our Transportation Information page. 

**Note: If you will be participating on an athletic team, be sure to communicate with your coach before making your flight arrangements. Student athletes who will participate in fall sports are often required to arrive on campus practice sessions a few weeks prior to the beginning of the school semester (which is prior to the Program Start Date on your I-20 form).

F1 Basics

Once you enter the United States as a University of the Cumberlands student, our international staff are here to help you maintain a positive standing with your F-1 student visa.

You must be full-time (12 credit hours for undergraduate students/7 credit hours for graduate students) each semester.  If you have questions regarding enrollment requirements, please contact the studentaffairs [at] ucumberlands.edu (Office of Student Affairs) or the Department of International Graduate Services.

Your I-20 houses a great deal of information.  If you change your local address, change your academic program or change your employer (if you are in CPT or OPT) you must notify us so we can update your I-20.

Contact your home country's embassy in the U.S. for information about renewing your passport.

F-1 students cannot work without employment authorization from the Office of Student Affairs (undergraduate) or the Department of International Graduate Services (graduate). 

  • On-Campus Employment
    UC offers limited employment opportunities for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Employment on-campus may be full-time in the summer (if summer is not your first or last semester of enrollment) and vacation periods.
  • Off-Campus Employment
    F-1 students cannot work off campus without permission from the Office of Student Affairs (undergraduate) or  the Department of International Graduate Services (graduate).  Either office can help international students navigate the CPT and OPT employment request processes.

Before you leave the US, make sure you request a travel signature for re-entry from a UC Designated School Official. The DSO will sign page 2 of the I-20 for this purpose. The signature is valid for one year, but it is recommended to obtain a new signature every 6 months. A new signature is required every 6 months while on OPT.

A grace period is the lapse of time that occurs before or after you start/complete your program of study. Before you begin your program of study: An F-1 student may enter the U.S. initially up to 30 days before, but no later than, the program start date on the I-20. After completing your program of study:  The grace period ends when you depart the U.S., or no later than 60 days after the end of the I-20 or your EAD card (if on OPT), whichever comes first.

Answers to Your Biggest Questions

20 sec
How do students get an airport shuttle?
Transcript
You will receive an email with a link that will direct you to the school website form to book your shuttle. You will have to fill in all your flight information and then students affairs will provide your shuttle. There are different time slots from 6 a.m. up to late afternoon and they will make sure you will get to the airport 2 hours prior to departure.
How do I get an airport shuttle?
12 sec
Students answer questions about embracing diversity on campus.
Transcript
Biggest thing they do is just get everybody involved. You know, it makes everything feel at home, you know? Just from different races and different cultures, you know, wherever you step foot on campus, you know, it just makes you feel truly loved.
How does Cumberlands embrace diversity on campus?
18 sec
Diversity leadership council member Anne
Transcript
Our goal is to break those cultural barriers that is holding you back from truly thriving in an environment that you have never been in. Because I understand you're probably from Germany or Australia or from Africa like me. So when you come here, we talk, we build and most importantly, you get an education.
What is the goal of the diversity & leadership council?
18 sec
Housing staff answer questions about things to do on campus.
Transcript
For fun. Residents have access to a wide variety of activities and facilities on campus, including a free fitness center, a game room, tennis court, volleyball and basketball courts. Throughout the week, students can engage in a variety of events hosted by Campus Activities Board, athletics, residents life and other departments and groups on campus surf, she said.
What is there to do on campus?
What's included in your tuition? Everything.

What's included in your tuition? Everything.

At Cumberlands we empower you to learn on your own terms, at your own pace, with zero fine print, exceptions, or funny business. One focus: You. One price for everything, all included, even books. Why? Because that's Cumberlands' One Price Promise.

International Undergraduate Employment

No matter where you are from in the world, Cumberlands is home. Learn more about earning your way to a college degree.

Fans cheering in gym bleachers

International Graduate Admissions

The Department of International Graduate Services provides support resources for our international students.

Resources & Forms
Executive students prepare for graduation

Graduate Executive Resources

Use these resources to make your academic journey a successful one.
CPT & Employment
Executive students and professors talking together
A graduate leaping for joy

Executive Academic Programs

International Student FAQ

We hope that we can answer your most pressing questions below. Please reach out to us for any assistance. 

Yes, find out more about accreditation on our Accreditation page. 

You will need to contact your local County Clerk’s office for specific application requirements.  However, at minimum you will need to take your valid I-20 and a letter from UC stating you are in good standing and currently enrolled at the institution. To obtain this letter complete the DMV Request Form.

Anyone who works in the US must have a Social Security card.  A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued once per lifetime.  If you have requested a card before and lost it, you will not get a new number. You are only eligible to apply for an SSN if you have a job offer letter and work permission.  Please note, F-2 dependents are not eligible for an SSN. You can work while you are waiting for your SSN application to be processed.

  • You must be currently in the US before you can apply for your SSN.
  • You must apply with your local SSN office no earlier than 30 days before your start date of employment as recorded on your I-20.
  • You need to take your employment letter and I-20 with you to the Social Security Office in order to apply for a card.
  • You can find your closest SSN Office by clicking here.

Undergraduate Students: If you select to change your program of study or your degree program, you must set up an appointment with the Office of Student Services to review your I-20 and any admission requirements to the new program of study. Once it is determined that you can begin the new program, the respective office will update your program of study on your I-20 and extend your program if necessary.

Graduate Students: Submit a change of program application and meet the admissions requirements for your preferred program. Once it is determined that you can begin the new program you will receive an updated acceptance letter then an academic advisor and DSO will work with you for SEVIS updates and course registration.

All students needing a program extension will need to submit the Program Extension Application in UC Global. Please note, this request must come at least one month prior to the program end date listed on your I-20. Requests for a program extension after the program end date listed on your I-20 cannot be processed.

 

US immigration regulations limit the number of online classes an F-1 student can take in a given semester.  No more than one (1) course can count towards the student’s full-time enrollment.  Please contact the Office of Student Services or  the Department of International Graduate Services for additional clarification regarding the online enrollment restrictions. 

F-1 students can only drop below full-time enrollment with prior permission from their assigned Designated School Official (DSO) and Academic Advisor.  A reduced course load request must be submitted in UC Global. If requesting a medical reduced course load documentation must be provided.

If your passport is lost/stolen there are several key reporting steps that must be completed.   

Step 1: You must file a police report for a lost or stolen passport.  Make sure you make a copy of the report for your records and to present to your consulate office. 
Step 2: You must report that your passport has been lost/stolen to the Embassy or Consulate office that issued your visa.  When you report the missing document, you want to list your full name, date of birth, place of birth, address in the US, and email address.  You are also asked to state when and where it was lost/stolen. 
Step 3: You cannot replace the passport within the US.  As a result, when you go home for a break period you will have to apply for a replacement visa.  You must take all of the documentation referenced above with you when you apply. 

Please note that once you complete these steps, if you find your passport it will no longer be valid and you still have to replace the document.
 

An I-901 is a fee that all F and M students and J exchange visitors must pay before the Department of State can issue a visa. Students pay this fee after receiving their Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” at FMJfee.com.

  • Regulation requires all prospective F-1 students to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee before the U.S. Department of State issues them a visa to study in the United States.
  • The I-901 SEVIS Fee is different from the fees for visa services issued by the Department of State.
  • F-1 students must pay their I-901 SEVIS Fee in order to study in the United States, to remain compliant and to maintain their student status.
  • To pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee , visit FMJfee.com to access the SEVIS Form I-901.
  • F-1 students must print their I-901 SEVIS Fee payment receipt to present as proof of payment at their visa interview and to enter the United States at a U.S. port of entry. Showing an email notification alone will not be sufficient.
  • The SEVIS ID on the payment confirmation receipt must always match the SEVIS ID on the student’s most current Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” unless the F or M student is considered a border commuter student. If the SEVIS ID is different, please email FMJfee.sevis [at] ice.dhs.gov (FMJfee[dot]sevis[at]ice[dot]dhs[dot]gov) to confirm if a new I‑901 Fee payment is required.
 

All F-1 international students must file tax forms with the United States federal government.  You must file taxes regardless of whether you worked in the U.S., earned income in the U.S., or received a scholarship. International Student Services does not have tax experts and, therefore, cannot, by law, answer specific tax questions or help you prepare your tax forms. If you are unfamiliar with filing taxes, we recommend that students get expert advice from an accountant or other tax professional.

The deadline to file taxes in the U.S. is April 15.

Steps to Consider to Complete Fax Forms 
Step 1: Collect Tax Documents: These documents may have come from an employer or the university. 

Step 2: File Tax Paperwork by April 15:  There are several tax professionals available for international students to consider.  UC does not endorse one specific program.  However, we do like to highlight Glacier Tax Prep, which is a specific tax preparation service that is trained in working with international students. You can access their site at https://www.glaciertax.com/.

Commonly Used Tax Forms 
1040Z: Income Tax Return  

Form 8843: Statement for Exempt Individuals (This form is required even if you don’t file taxes.) 

Taxpayer Identification Number:  Students without a Social Security Number 

Form 4868: Application for Extension of Time to File Taxes  

New Student Orientation is a critical and required component of your transition to University of the Cumberlands Graduate Programs. Click here for more information about orientation.

This process requires traveling out of the US, applying for a visa, and paying the SEVIS Fee. Since traveling requires visiting a U.S. consulate outside the U.S. to obtain the new visa stamp, the length of time is dependent on how long that process will take.  Due to delays, long processing times and security checks, we recommend talking with a DSO before choosing this option.

Your re-entry date to the U.S. can be up to 30 days prior to the program start date on your I-20.  If your re-entry date is delayed, it could jeopardize your enrollment for the planned term. 

A person's nonimmigrant status must match the purpose of his/her stay in the U.S.  A change of status may be necessary when the objectives of the visit have changed.

Changing nonimmigrant status can be a complex and time-consuming process. The timing of the change is critical and must be done with care to avoid falling out of status during the transition. Before pursuing a change of status, it is recommended that you discuss your situation with a DSO.

There are two ways to change nonimmigrant status:

1.    Travel outside the U.S. and re-enter in the new status, or

2.    Remain in the U.S. and request a change of status by application to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

To learn more about the Change of Status Process review resources provided by DHS on Study in the States: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/change-of-status

**The above information is to be used as a general reference only. University of the Cumberlands does not issue change of status I-20’s. If you have questions regarding this information please contact the Department of International Graduate Services**

Why would I need F-1 reinstatement?

Examples of how a student may fail to maintain status that would require reinstatement: 

  • Failure to complete the I-20 transfer procedure when transferring institutions
  • Failure to apply for an extension of program before I-20 expiration
  • Failure to complete a full course of study during a given semester
  • Failure to properly follow university withdrawal policies

*University of the Cumberlands will not recommend reinstatement for students whose SEVIS record has been terminated.*

How to gain reinstatement:

Students who fail to maintain F-1 student status have two options as to how to regain their legal immigration status; application through USCIS/DHS or travel. 

Option 1: Apply to the U.S Department of Homeland Security:

A non-immigrant alien who has failed to maintain status may apply for reinstatement to lawful status at the discretion of DHS, but only under limited conditions specified in immigration regulations.

An application for reinstatement may be considered if the following can be proved:

  • You have not been out of status for more than five (5) months
  • You do not have a record of repeat violations
  • You are pursuing a full course of study
  • You are not (or have not been) engaged in unauthorized employment
  • You are not deportable on any grounds other than the status violation
  • The status violation was beyond your control, or failure to timely submit a Program Extension 

Pending Re-Instatement – You are not in legal F-1 status until your application for reinstatement is approved, therefore:

School Attendance: An applicant for reinstatement to F-1 status must maintain full-time academic enrollment while the application is pending.
Employment Benefits: No F-1 employment benefits (CPT) are available until the reinstatement is approved.

How to Apply for Re-Instatement

Students are responsible for the following:

Be prepared to have the following documents to provide:

  • New, original F-1 I-20 issued for reinstatement – This comes from a University of the Cumberlands P/DSO
  • Check or money order, payable to Department of Homeland Security (https://www.uscis.gov/forms)
  • I-94 card
  • Personal letter explaining your situation and requesting reinstatement (must be original with signature)
  • Suggestions for Personal Letter: This letter should establish convincingly why you are out of status by specifically stating the violation, and the reason(s) you are in violation.  State how failure to receive reinstatement approval will affect you; state that you are currently pursuing or intending to pursue a full course of study and specifically request that the Department of Homeland Security reinstate you to student status.  Be sure to state that you have not violated any other immigration regulations and have not been employed without proper authorization; and finally reaffirm your intention that you intend to return to your home country when your F1 status is completed. Be sure to provide a strong letter with facts to support your requests.
  • Completed Form I-539:
    • (on Part 2, Application Type, be sure to select #3 – “Reinstatement to Student Status”;
    • Part 3. Processing Information: check-mark the box at 1.b.)
  • SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt (only required if you have been “out of status” more than 5 months): www.fmjfee.com                    
  • photocopy of passport statistics page
  • photocopy of visa
  • proof of financial support (original or photocopy)
  • copy of academic transcripts (this can be an unofficial copy)
  • All previously issued I-20’s (photocopies)  
    The word "REINSTATEMENT" should be written at the top of the I-539 form to further distinguish it from other uses of Form I-539.

How to Process the Re-Instatment – Once your application is complete you will mail the reinstatement application yourself to one of the addresses below.  It is recommended that you send your packet “certified mail; return receipt requested”.  This allows you to track your application during the mail process and ensures proof that you sent your application and that it was received.  It is important that the Reinstatement application packet be assembled in order as shown above in the “How To Apply” section and sent to: 

“Regular” mail:  

USCIS – TEXAS SERVICE CENTER
ATTN: I-539 – REINSTATEMENT
PO BOX 660166
DALLAS, TX 75266

Certified Mail or Overnight Mail:

USCIS – TEXAS SERVICE CENTER
ATTN: I-539 – REINSTATEMENT
2501 S STATE HIGHWAY 121, BUSINESS SUITE 400
LEWISVILLE, TX 75067

You will receive a Notice of Action from the Service Center, this lets you know that the Service Center has received your application; it does not mean that your application has been approved. Read this notice carefully. If at any time the Service Center requests further information, gather what is asked for submission; pay strict attention to given deadlines.

Please know that, the reinstatement process can take several months to be acted upon.  You must be attending school full-time and stay in compliance with all F-1 student regulations.  Failure to do so can result in the denial of your application.  When you receive your final adjudication Notice of Action, provide your notice to the International Student Services department so that your immigration records can be adjusted accordingly and a copy made for your student file.

Option 2: Travel

As an alternative to applying for reinstatement while in the U.S., you may opt to travel and re-enter the U.S. using a new “initial attendance” I-20.

Please contact the P/DSO to notify which option you choose to pursue to regain F-1 student status or to discuss these option further. 

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