WEEKLY UPDATE – May 5

As you wrap up your spring courses, please make sure you have the most current travel information and feel confident in what you need for departing and re-entering the U.S. If you are already outside of the U.S. or decide to travel home this summer, please read the information below for guidance on what to expect and what documents you need. As always, you can email our office with any questions or concerns. Wishing you the best of luck as you prepare for your final exams! 

Given the increased vetting of international travelers at the port of entry and consulates, potential visa delays, and possibility of country-specific visa and travel restrictions, ISSS encourages all travelers to prepare for potential risks and assess whether their international travel is necessary before making plans. We sent an email on April 3 with important reminders and considerations regarding international travel so students can assess their situation. 

If you have questions about your individual situation or international travel plans, please email or schedule an appointment with your ISSS adviser. ISSS has added appointment slots for the rest of the semester to accommodate students with travel questions. The ISSS office continues to follow immigration updates closely, and we will communicate these updates with students on our International Student Support web page. 

Do you need a travel signature? 

Don’t have a valid travel signature? Submit a request in MyISSS:

Note: Students need a valid travel signature to re-enter the U.S., but not to leave. 

For students traveling internationally during the summer break, ISSS will be holding Travel Signature Days between April 30 – May 6 during which submitted travel signature requests will be processed by the end of the day on May 9.

Required Documents for Travel: All international students leaving the U.S. need to be in possession of the following upon re-entry:

For more information on additional items to carry, customs and immigration procedures, and renewing your U.S. student visa, please visit our website »

Tuesday, May 6 | 12–5 p.m.
Lone Mountain 148

This conference will feature an exciting line-up of engaging workshops, insightful panels, and unparalleled networking opportunities along with an opportunity to purchase items from a range of local artisans. This event is open to all USF community members.

May 2 – June 29
Gleeson Library – Thacher Gallery

This juried exhibition showcases juniors and seniors in the Department of Art + Architecture, presented by the Thacher Practicum class led by Rhiannon Evans Macfadyen. In Interlude, USF student artists play and experiment to cultivate an intuitive practice. This event is open to all USF community members.

Saturday, May 10 – Thursday, May 15

The final examination period is just around the corner! Make sure to check your exam schedule ahead of time so you’re prepared. Need a quiet place to study? Gleeson Library offers bookable study rooms to help you focus and finish the semester strong.

Thursday, May 15 – Saturday, May 17

Congratulations to the upcoming spring and summer 2025 grads! ISSS will be tabling at some of the commencement ceremonies and handing out custom buttons! If you miss us, please stop by our front desk on the fifth floor of University Center any time before May 23. (Limited supply!) This event is open to all USF community members.

During the new presidential administration, ISSS is monitoring and communicating immigration updates that may affect our international students. Visit our International Student Support web page for updates and resources.

If you are requesting an immigration document or letter from our office, remember that we request ten business days to process requests. Make sure you plan accordingly so you have enough time to receive your document before you need it. All ISSS requests should be submitted through the MyISSS student portal (log into your MyISSS account, go to Requests & Documents, and select the appropriate icon on the right side of the page). You can view our MyISSS Student Handbook for assistance with your submission.

Click the Chat with ISSS button on the bottom, right corner of any ISSS web page, and the ISSS team can assist you with your inquiry.

Appointments can be made online. Appointments are booked in 20-minute increments.

Our podcast focuses on mindfulness, diversity, and inclusion, featuring episodes that cover diverse topics. Subscribe for engaging narratives, consistent audio quality, and a cohesive visual identity, and join us in building a mindful and inclusive USF community.

Want to submit content for future newsletters? Email our office at isss@usfca.edu for more information.