Travel Information 

The ISS office has compiled the following information so students can be informed while planning international travel. It is important that you assess your individual situation and evaluate possible risks when making travel plans in the middle of your academic activities. If you do plan to travel internationally, please remain aware of any updates to the International Travel Advisory web page here.

Please contact our office at iss@okstate.edu for any questions or to schedule an advising appointment with your DSO.

You can find the list of required and recommended travel documents below for your convenience:

 

Required Documents

• Valid passport with an expiration date at least six months beyond your re-entry date
• Valid F-1 or J-1 visa with an expiration date beyond your re-entry date (except citizens of Canada and Bermuda)
• Valid I-20 (F-1) endorsed by an ISS advisor OR Valid DS-2019 (J-1) endorsed by the program sponsor
  • F-1 students in a program of study: endorsement must be within the past 12 months
  • F-1 students on OPT: endorsement must be within the past 6 months
  • J-1 students and scholars: endorsement must be within the past 12 months

 

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

• Proof of full-time enrollment
• Approval of a reduced course load
• Evidence of concurrent enrollment
• Documentation explaining the reason for travel
• Any written communication or emails from professors excusing absences during travel
• OPT EAD and proof of employment

 

Highly Recommended Documents (Not Required)

• SEVIS fee receipt
• Official or unofficial transcript (available from the Registrar’s Office, 322 Student Union)
• Recent tuition receipts
• Proof of U.S. health insurance
• Resume and/or CV
• OSU catalog description of your major
• A list of any publications if you have been published
• Proof of financial support, such as:
  • Personal bank statement
  • Assistantship verification letter (including salary and tuition details)
  • Sponsor’s letter and sponsor’s bank statement

 

Note:

• Students travelling abroad during an active CPT/OPT/STEM period are encouraged to also carry documentation of either approved leave or an official business trip while travelling abroad. In general, work during F-1 employment authorization periods should not be conducted remotely while you are outside of the country.
• If you are missing any of the required documents when you are entering the U.S., you may be allowed to enter the U.S. temporarily. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer may issue you a Form I-515A, “Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor.” If you receive an I-515A you must respond in a timely manner, otherwise your immigration status is at risk of termination.
• S. Customs and Border Protection Officers have the authority to search all electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops brought into the U.S. at a port of entry, as well as the social media accounts of individuals entering the U.S.