Travel

If you will be traveling to or through countries other than your country of citizenship, please plan well in advance to acquire the necessary visas for the countries you will visit or travel through. If you will be traveling through Canada, you can learn more about obtaining a Canadian visa.

Travel Signatures

F-1 students and J-1 Exchange Visitors should check their Form I-20 or DS-2019 for a recent travel signature prior to any international travel. Travel signatures are valid for one year from the date of the signature. If you are going to travel outside the United States and are unsure if you need a new travel signature, please make an appointment with the DSO at Whitman.  

Important Housing Dates

Due to the logistical concerns of international travel, many international students plan their travel itineraries well in advance of the end of the semester or school year. Please be sure to always consult the important housing dates from the Residence Life Office when planning your travel over academic breaks.

Grace Periods

F-1 students and J-1 Exchange Visitors in "Initial" status may not enter the United States more than 30 days before the Program Start Date listed on the Form I-20/DS-2019.

F-1 students have 60 days after their Program End Date listed on the Form I-20 to apply for a period of Optional Practical Training, finalize a transfer of their SEVIS record to another SEVP-certified institution, depart the United States, or otherwise apply for a change of legal status.

Students who transfer their SEVIS record to another school must begin their studies at the new institution within five months of the end of their studies at Whitman.