International Student Frequently Asked Questions

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Page last updated 03/31/2025 09:40 AM

St. John’s University values all students and scholars in our community, and we are committed to making all members of our community feel welcome, secure, and well-supported throughout their time at St. John’s and in the United States.

International students and scholars planning to travel outside the United States should familiarize themselves with U.S. laws and policy.  Travel restrictions, visa procedures and processing, re-entry requirements, and other travel-related delays may affect travelers’ ability to return to the U.S. when traveling internationally.  These considerations may also be prudent for U.S. permanent residents (“green card” holders).

The following FAQ is based on currently available information.  Ultimately, you must decide whether to travel outside of the United States. This FAQ webpage is intended to help you make an informed decision and is not legal advice.

The International Student and Scholar Services Office (ISSSO) is here to assist international students and scholars, and our advisors are available for in-person or virtual meetings with students.  You can schedule an appointment here. 

Permanent residents considering study abroad may also wish to contact the Office of International Education at studyabroad@stjohns.edu or 718-990-6105 for advisement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Possibly. ISSSO will endeavor to alert international students and scholars of any travel bans or restrictions. 

Possibly. ISSSO will endeavor to alert the university community of any travel bans or restrictions.

No, federal officials at an airport or land border decide whether to admit someone as a nonimmigrant each time the person presents their immigration documents and seeks admission to the U.S. This has always been the case. 

 ISSSO will endeavor to alert international students and scholars of any travel bans or restrictions.

International students and scholars traveling within or outside the United States should always check-in with ISSSO before travel, and always carry the following documents:

  • A valid passport (valid for at least 6 months into the future)
  • A valid visa (This does not apply to citizens of Canada or Bermuda.)
  • Their current I-20 or DS-2019 with a valid travel signature
  • Their most recent I-94
  • SEVIS Fee Receipt
  • Proof of Enrollment (the unofficial transcript which can be found in the New UIS portal is sufficient)
  • If on OPT: their EAD and a Letter of Employment.  Students on OPT should contact their ISSSO advisor for more information about what the letter should contain. You can schedule an appointment here.