Questions and Answers on COVID_19 for International Students

Will on-line courses harm my F1 status?

Normally, Only one online or distance learning class (3 credit hours) can count toward a full course of study for an F-1 student during each term or semester. Because of the COVID-19 outbreak, as for now you are allowed for to take all online courses for this semester only.  Beginning in the Fall semester of 2020, you must be enrolled in at least 9 on-ground courses on the campus and the other 3 hours can be on-line. If you are sponsored by your government, any on-line courses you take must be approved either by your sponsor.

Can I still graduate this semester?

As long as you have met the degree requirement, you may graduate this semester. Please check with the Registrar’s Office regarding graduation.

How will I know if I can travel back to my home country?

Do I need my I-20 signed before departure if I will return to MTSU and continue my study?

First look on page 2 of your I-20 to see if we have already signed it.  If we have, the signature is valid for one year.  If you need to leave without the I-20 being signed, we can print a new one and send it to you via e-shipglobal services.

Can I still apply for OPT?

As long as the university is open you may apply for OPT 90 days BEFORE graduation or up to 60 days AFTER you graduate.

Can I still stay in my dorm?

Yes, but be sure to check your Housing Portal for the instructions.  You will need to register on-line via your Housing Portal to let them know you are coming back and any requirements for quarantine will be handled by Student Health Services. 

What if I have completed my program and am required to return home but I cannot return because my country is designated as Level-3 on the CDC’s warning list for COVID-19?

Please refer U.S. Department of State on Travel Advisory  Please know that the COVID-19 situation is very fluid and the government will update its policies in response to the pandemic development.

Can nonimmigrant students participate in online classes?

SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) is committed to remaining flexible in allowing schools to make temporary procedural adaptations so nonimmigrant students can continue to make normal forward progress in their program of study. They can temporarily engage in distance-learning, either from within the U.S. or outside the country, in light of COVID-19. SEVP will provide updated guidance as additional information concerning the scope and length of this situation becomes clearer.

Can nonimmigrant students participate in online classes from outside the U.S. and still maintain their nonimmigrant status?

Yes, nonimmigrant students can temporarily engage in distance-learning, either from within the U.S. or outside the country, in light of COVID-19. SEVP will provide updated guidance as additional information concerning the scope and length of this situation becomes clearer. More information can be found hereCOVID-19: Guidance for SEVP Stakeholders

Will students be able to return to the United States if they are continuing their studies outside of the country as a result of COVID-19?

 Students who continue to make normal progress in their course of study remain eligible for admission into the United States. However, because of the changing array of travel restrictions, nonimmigrant students should refer to their local embassy’s website through the U.S. Department of State for any updates about visa issuance. Also, DHS and CDC websites both provide information about current travel restrictions to the United States.

 Information Resources:

 Email Inquiries: International@mtsu.edu   Phone Number: +1 615 904 8190