The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reversed a controversial policy update regarding F-1 visa holders studying abroad, alleviating months of uncertainty among international students and educational institutions. The revised rule reinstates the long-standing understanding that F-1 students can maintain their active SEVIS status during study abroad programs exceeding five months, provided they remain enrolled in a certified institution.

The initial change, introduced in an August 27 policy manual update, stated that students studying abroad for over five months would lose their active status and require a new Form I-20 for readmission. This sparked widespread confusion and forced some institutions, such as Minerva University, to alter study plans for students to protect their visa status.

The correction, issued on November 26, removes the problematic language and redirects stakeholders to the Study in the States webpage for guidance. However, the manual still asserts that students unable to stay enrolled at an ICE SEVP-certified school during extended absences cannot maintain their status.

Stakeholders, including Minerva University, NAFSA, and immigration advisers, had urged USCIS to address the issue, with immigration lawyers warning about the potential compliance risks in the upcoming administration of Donald Trump.

“This correction ensures that study abroad remains integral to an F-1 student’s education,” said Aaron Blumberg, a partner at Fragomen Immigration.

The revision brings relief to students and universities, reinforcing the importance of study abroad in a globalized education system. However, experts emphasize the need for better alignment of immigration policies to avoid future conflicts.

This development highlights both the value of international education and the complexities of navigating the U.S. immigration system.