Leave of Absence

This form is for F-1 students and J-1 scholars ONLY. Please inform ISSS before you leave the U.S. so we can update our records and your SEVIS record appropriately. Failure to keep ISSS informed will result in an invalid visa status.  This form should only be used if you will be away from ODU for less than five months.

If you will not be coming back to resume your academic program, please submit the Program Departure Form instead.

Family Name*

First Name*

UIN*

SEVIS ID*

E-Mail*

Phone*

Current Visa*F-1 J-1 Other

Academic Level*Bachelors Masters Ph.D.

Anticipated Departure Date*

Anticipated Return Date*

What will your address be while you are out of the U.S.?*

Additional Information (Please use this box to provide the reason for the last option above and any other details you feel are necessary.)

• If you are out of the U.S. for a semester or longer, you will need to re-activate your student file with the University. NOTE: This does not apply to Study Abroad program participantsor individuals doing academic research.
• If you did not take any classes during your absence, you simply need to submit a new admission application form (no fee is required).
• If you took classes overseas during your absence, please submit a new admission application form (no fee required) and official transcripts.
• If you are out of the U.S. for five or more months, you will need to re-new your F-1 status with three steps: 1) obtain a new I-20 from International Admissions (new, original financial documentation will be necessary), 2) pay the SEVIS (I-901) fee and 3) obtain a new F-1 visa stamp from the U.S. consulate.
• You can re-enter the U.S. within 30 days of the start of the coming semester you will attend.
• F-1 students must leave the U.S. within 15 days of the first day of classes for the semester in which a leave of absence is requested.  For later requests, the departure must be within 15 days of the last class attended. 
• An itinerary for your departure from the U.S. required for processing of this request.
• You will receive an e-mail when processing is complete.