The March 2020 Covid guidelines for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) have been extended to the 2022-2023 academic year. As such, an extension for attending classes via distance learning is supported. The guidelines are applicable to nonimmigrant students who have been enrolled and actively taking classes at a qualifying U.S. school on March 9, 2020. Students must also comply with all terms of the nonimmigrant status, whether U.S. based or abroad. There are no changes to the March 2020 guidelines that will remain in effect for the 2022-2023 school year.
Overview of March 2020 Covid Guidelines for Continuing Students
The March 2020 guidelines allow active F and M students to include online courses toward the requirements to qualify for a full course of study. To qualify, students must be continuing F and M nonimmigrant students who have not been eligible for F-1 or M-1 status on March 9, 2020. This qualification includes students enrolled entirely in online courses, outside the U.S., and trying to re-enter the U.S. for the 2022-2023 school year. Students who were enrolled in qualifying U.S. schools and started online courses while outside the U.S. can re-enter the country.
Individuals with an F or M status who were not already enrolled in a qualifying program on March 9, 2020, cannot enter the U.S. as a nonimmigrant student for the 2022-2023 school year if their classes are entirely online. Students enrolled in a hybrid program with some level of in-person learning are allowed to enter the U.S., if all other requirements are met.
SEVP-Certified Schools
If a SEVP-certified school submitted a change plan for their alternate procedures, there is no need to submit the plan again for the 2022-2023 school year, unless there are substantive changes. If so, updated procedures must be filed within 10 business days of the finalization of the new procedures.
Additional information is available on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website.
If you have questions about your status as a student or updates for your SEVP-certified school or how to become one, contact us at ILBSG. Our extensive experience with individuals and organizations of all sizes ensures you get the right advice.
