WEEKLY UPDATE – Dec. 1

As you wrap up your fall 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 winter, please read the information below for guidance on what to expect and what documents you need to re-enter the U.S. As always, please call, email, or walk into 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 U.S. port of entries and consulates, longer visa processing times, and current and potential country-specific visa and travel restrictions, ISSS encourages all travelers to assess individual risks and take precautions before planning any international travel. Students should review the FAQ on the International Student Support web page, which includes information on travel considerations, documents required for visa renewal and travel, and travel restrictions.

Please note that the proposed rule to eliminate Duration of Status still hasn’t been finalized and published. Once finalized, the rule will take effect 60 days from the publication date. ISSS is continuing to follow immigration updates closely, and we will communicate updates with students on our International Student Support web page.

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.

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 planning to travel during the winter holiday season, ISSS will be hosting Travel Signature Days from Nov. 26 to Dec. 3. During this period, any travel signature requests submitted via MyISSS will be processed and ready by the end of the day on Dec. 9, so that students have the necessary documentation for a smooth return to the U.S.

Congratulations to the upcoming fall 2025 grads! Commencement ceremonies will be held on Friday, Dec. 12, in person and streamed virtually on USF's website and  YouTube. Please note that guests are required to have a ticket in order to attend the commencement ceremonies.

For international students who would like their family members to attend commencement, ISSS offers an Invitation Letter template that you can personalize. This letter can help your family demonstrate the purpose of their visit to the United States when applying for a tourist visa.

Learn more about USF fall 2025 graduation »

        Tuesday, Dec. 2 | 4:30–6 p.m.       Gleeson Library 145 - Monihan Atrium

Join the University Ministry's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, a cherished campus tradition featuring a performance by the Good Shepherd School first-grade choir, a tree blessing from our university chaplain, and a community sing-along.  Enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, or apple cider. Ornaments will be available for students, faculty, and staff. All are welcome.

RSVP »

Dec. 5–11

As we enter the final examination period, remember to check when and where your exams will take place. Additionally, Gleeson Library offers study rooms where you can quietly study or collaborate with others. Reserve a room, use your resources, and best of luck on your finals!

The ISSS office will be closed from Wednesday, Dec. 24, to Thursday, Jan. 1, for winter break. The submission deadline for requests to be processed before winter break is Friday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m. If you submit your request after Dec. 12, it is not guaranteed that your request will be processed before the break.

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 requests are processed within 10 business days. 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. Find upcoming workshops on the ISSS Events and Workshops calendar.

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Want to submit content for future newsletters? For a student feature, fill out this form, and for all other contributions, email our office at isss@usfca.edu for more information.