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20 Aug 2025

The U.S. college where I obtained my master’s degree was accredited when I graduated but then lost its accreditation a few years later. Can I use this degree to qualify for a PERM position that requires a master’s degree?

Answer If the college was accredited at the time the degree was conferred, the degree typically can be used to meet a PERM position’s degree requirements. (20.Aug.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click...

12:28 / F-1 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
23 Jun 2025

Consular Posts to Resume F, J, and M Visa Appointments with Expanded Screening

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently announced that U.S. consular posts soon will resume scheduling visa appointments for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applicants. The resumption comes alongside the implementation of expanded screening and vetting procedures that will include comprehensive review of applicants'...

10:44 / Consulates / F-1 / For Individuals / J-1 / M-1 / NewsBrief / Student / Travel
17 Jun 2025

My school operates on a quarter-based schedule with summer, fall, winter, and spring academic quarters. Instead of taking courses this coming winter, am I permitted to take a vacation?

Answer If a student attends a school on a quarter or trimester calendar, they may take one vacation per year during any one of the quarters or trimesters, as long as they have completed the equivalent of an academic year prior to taking the vacation. (17.Jun.2025)Sheela...

17:53 / F-1 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student
18 Sep 2024

I applied for my 24-month STEM OPT extension and it currently is pending. My first-year OPT EAD expired two weeks ago. I just received news that I must travel back to my home country for a couple of weeks to attend to a sick relative. Will I be able to return to resume my STEM OPT?

Answer Your EAD and F-1 status are automatically extended for 180 days while your STEM OPT is pending. If you travel during this time, you should be able to come back with an expired EAD and the STEM OPT receipt notice. You should also be able...

10:43 / F-1 / FAQs / For Individuals / Student / Travel