Frequently Asked Questions - Covid-19
Frequently Asked Questions for International Students
Q. Is the International Programs Office open?
A. Yes. The Office of International Programs is open remotely. Office staff will continue to
produce immigration documents, respond to phone calls, emails, CANVAS, and Zoom. It is essential that you read any emails you receive from the University and monitor the Clark Atlanta University web page. All requests should continue to be submitted online at: www.bit.ly/CAUIntl
Q. If a student leaves the U.S. and wants to return will he/she be able to do so?
A. Yes. It is very important that you have all the required immigration documents when trying to reenter the U.S. Additionally, you should remain aware of travel restrictions to enter the United States.
Q. Instead of traveling back to my home country, may I go elsewhere in the U.S.?
A. Yes, as long as you maintain your student visa status while taking your full-time on-line classes, you may go elsewhere in the U.S. You must provide the address where you are residing to the Office of International Programs.
Q. Do I still need a travel signature to travel outside of the country?
A. Yes, you must have a valid travel signature on your I-20 to return to the U.S. after international travel. Each signature is valid for one year. All requests for travel signatures should continue to be made online at:
www.bit.ly/CAUIntl
Q. If I am in the U.S., can I submit my OPT application to the Office of International Programs remotely?
A. Yes. You can mail your application to the Office of International Programs for processing. The staff in the Office of International Programs will contact you for details on pick-up for you to mail to USCIS. The Office of International Programs staff will continue to process OPT as soon as we receive your completed application and supporting documentation. If you are in valid immigration status and scheduled to graduate in May, we strongly encourage you to do so. All requests should continue through the online format: www.bit.ly/CAUIntl
Q. Will online courses affect my visa status?
A. No. U.S. universities received guidance from the Department of Homeland Security that allows international students to continue this semester’s courses online without jeopardizing their immigration status. This means that you must continue to maintain full-time enrollment and be making normal progress toward degree completion. Regardless of where you are participating in online classes, your immigration status will remain active.