International Students Returning from University Leave

To allow time for I-20 and possibly visa issuance you should begin this process as soon as possible. Requests to return from a University Leave should be submitted no later than October 1 for the spring semester and March 1 for the fall semester. Your College advisor can provide you with guidance and the required Return from Leave form.

For more information about the policies and procedures for University Leave and the difference between University Leave and University Withdrawal please refer to the Registrar's University Leave of Absence and University Withdrawal page.

Financial aid recipients are responsible for filing their aid forms in a timely manner and should consult with their financial aid counselor to determine if Aid can be reinstated. This information will be needed to request your new I-20.

Requesting a New I-20

After you have been approved to return from a leave an academic advisor in the International Student Academic Affairs team within College Center for Advising Services (CCAS) will initiate the New Student Intake Form (NSIF) with ISO. You will receive an email with instructions on how to complete the NSIF.

To prepare for the NSIF read the New Student Intake Forms: Instructions and Required Information page. If you have any questions regarding the process email cascas@ur.rochester.edu.

Please prepare the following documents for the NSIF in advance:

  • Passport photo ID page.
  • Recent bank document and/or confirmation from the Financial Aid Office that you are receiving scholarship or award funding for one year's tuition and fees.
  • A sponsor letter from the account holder indicating that the funds are available to you for your education costs if the bank account isn't in your name.

The start date on your I-20 will be the day classes begin in the semester you are returning. If you are requesting to return during a summer session, please be aware that you need to enroll full time in the summer for a total of 12 credits and only one course can be remote.

If you have specific questions about travel, your I-20, or visa, you should contact ISO directly at questions@iso.rochester.edu or +1 (585) 275-2866.