Absence/Departure from Penn

How to Arrange an Absence or Departure from Penn

Your immigration status is directly associated with and affected by your full-time enrollment in an academic program. If you intend to, or are thinking about, taking a leave or withdrawing from Penn please discuss with ISSS as soon as possible.

Depending on the circumstances:

  • Your SEVIS record may be terminated

  • You may have limited time for departing from the US (0-15 days)

  • You may be excluded from or restricted in future F-1/J-1 student employment benefits

  • AND You may need to obtain new immigration documents for re-entry in the future.

If you plan to return to the US to study at Penn, please make sure to read the Return from Absence section below.

 

How To Return from an Absence

Below are the procedures for F & J students to return to the US to resume study at Penn after an absence.