email : Webview : Preparing for the Spring Semester: Key Information for International Students

Dear Student,

OGS has received questions from some members of the University's international community about steps that might be advisable for them to take ahead of the spring semester's start on January 21 (for most NYU students).

At NYU, we deeply value the presence of international students, scholars, faculty, and staff on our campuses, as well as the global mobility of all members of the NYU community. As always, the Office of Global Services (OGS) closely monitors any immigration-related developments. If there are any policy changes or updates that might impact your ability to study or work in the US, we will notify you promptly and provide resources to help you navigate these changes.

We encourage you to reach out to us with any questions or concerns, either via email, scheduling one-on-one advising sessions (details for both may be found on our Contact Us page), or simply by dropping in for an in-person meeting (available at 383 Lafayette Street: M-F, between 10am and 4pm; or at 5 MetroTech Center: M-F, between 1pm and 4pm). In addition, please rest assured that OGS will host information sessions to address any questions that may arise if and when there are policies announced that could affect our international community.

Recommendations for International Travel

If you’re planning to travel internationally before the start of the spring semester, please consider the following:

Prepare Your Documents:

Ensure your passport has sufficient remaining validity.
Have a valid US visa in the appropriate classification.
Ensure you have a valid travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019.

Visa Applications:

If you need to apply for a visa while abroad, be aware of potential delays in issuance due to seasonal demand or other factors.

Plan for Reentry:

We know some of you who are planning on traveling internationally over the break have asked if it makes sense to arrive back in the US prior to the start of the semester on January 21, 2025. At this time we are not aware of any imminent policy shifts that could affect our international students and scholars, but will notify you immediately should that change. That said, with spring semester classes beginning on January 21, it would already be our advice to arrive prior to January 20 to give yourself time to get settled in. Our strong recommendation, therefore, is to arrive by January 19, 2025, if you are able to do so.

Staying Informed

OGS is committed to keeping you informed of any developments that could affect your visa status, and we will be in touch with you if and when any such policy changes are announced. You will also be able to find updates on our Supporting Our International Students and Scholars page.

We’re here to support you every step of the way. And again, if you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact OGS or schedule an appointment with an advisor. Together, we’ll do everything possible to ensure you’re set up for a successful spring semester.

Warm regards,

Sherif Barsoum

Senior Associate Vice President, Global Services