IMPORTANT: SEVP ICE Policy Guidance for Fall 2020

Dear international students,

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services received guidance on July 6, 2020, from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regarding international student enrollment for fall 2020. A federal judge announced the rescission of that guidance July 14. This means we now return to the guidance regarding COVID-19 and school operations put in place in March while the pandemic continues. We expect additional information to be released by SEVP shortly.

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services remains committed to you and your concerns. We are here to support international students throughout the pandemic and welcome any questions you may have during this time at international@bradley.edu or (309) 677-3980. Below, you will find information regarding how this guidance impacts you.

I am a current Bradley international student physically present in the United States. What should I do?

  1. We recommend you arrive in Peoria at least 14 days before classes begin in order to follow quarantine procedures as necessary.
  2. You will need to enroll full-time for fall 2020 or be enrolled in an approved reduced course load.
  3. Avoid enrolling in online-only courses. You should not apply to have your current courses be offered solely online or you may lose your F-1 status.

I am a current Bradley international student physically outside of the United States. What should I do?

  1. Be sure that your immigration documents are valid for re-entry, including your passport, visa and I-20.
  2. If you return to the United States, we recommend you arrive in Peoria at least 14 days before classes begin in order to follow quarantine procedures.
  3. Once in the United States, you will need to enroll full-time for fall 2020 or be enrolled in an approved reduced course load.
  4. Avoid enrolling in online-only courses. You should not apply to have your current courses be offered solely online at this time or you may lose your F-1 status.
  5. If you choose to remain in your home country for health or safety reasons or if you are unable to return to the U.S. due to travel restrictions, please contact us right away at international@bradley.edu or (309) 677-3980. We can discuss your options and help you make the decision that is right for you. More information regarding a fully online option will be sent soon.

I am a Bradley alum on authorized OPT or STEM OPT. What should I do?

  1. Please continue to report to our office as required by immigration regulations.
  2. The SEVP broadcast messages and guidance in question do not have any impact on your status.

There is still guidance being sought on many specifics of the SEVP ICE regulations. Questions remain unanswered, but we will continue to communicate with you as we learn more about how this may impact you and Bradley University.

Best wishes,

Alyssa and Rachel

Office of International Student and Scholar Services

Bradley University | 1501 W. Bradley Ave | Peoria, IL 61625

Bradley Hall 215 | OISSS

international@fsmail.bradley.edu | 309-677-3980