Study or Research Abroad

Study abroad is an excellent way for undergraduate or graduate students to enhance their academic studies. Learn more about The New School's study abroad programs. International students and exchange visitors may also participate in study abroad or international research while completing a dissertation or thesis preparation.

If you engage in study or research abroad for an academic semester or longer (not including academic break periods such as summer vacations), you must inform ISSS of your study or research abroad plans and take the proper steps to avoid risk to your F-1 or J-1 status.

The Five-Month Rule

International students are not permitted to be outside of the United States for more than five consecutive months. If a student is outside of the United States for more than five months, their SEVIS record will be terminated and their F or J status will end. If you do research or study abroad, you are exempt from this rule if you follow the instructions below to maintain your F or J status.

Steps to Maintain Status