The PIE: USCIS Revises F-1 Study Abroad Policy Following Sector Confusion
November 27, 2024

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The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has corrected an August 2024 policy manual update that caused confusion over F-1 visa holders’ eligibility for study abroad programs. The initial update restricted students studying abroad for more than five months from maintaining active enrollment without obtaining a new Form I-20. Partner Aaron Blumberg shared insights with The PIE on how this update resolves confusion from the earlier change and why this correction supports clarity for international students and their educational plans.
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