What Happens If You Take a Break from Your Studies or Drop Out on an F-1 Visa?

🚨 Taking a break, withdrawing, or dropping out of school can affect your F-1 visa status and legal stay in the U.S.

---

🔹 1️⃣ What Happens If You Stop Studying?

🔴 If you stop studying without prior approval:

• Your SEVIS record will be terminated, and your F-1 status will be lost.

• You must leave the U.S. immediately (no grace period).

• You may face future visa issues if you try to return to the U.S.

🔴 If you take an authorized break:

• You may be able to stay in the U.S. or re-enter later without problems.

• Your school must approve your leave and update your SEVIS record.

📌 Always talk to your Designated School Official (DSO) before making any decisions!

---

🔹 2️⃣ If You Need a Temporary Break (Medical or Personal Reasons)

✔ You may request a Temporary Leave of Absence (LOA) for:

• Medical conditions (with a doctor’s letter).

• Family emergencies.

• Other serious personal issues.

✔ Your DSO can authorize a Reduced Course Load (RCL) or temporarily suspend your SEVIS record.
✔ You may need to leave the U.S. and return later with a new I-20.

📌 You must resume studies within 5 months, or you’ll need a new visa.

---

🔹 3️⃣ If You Drop Out or Take an Extended Break

🔴 Your SEVIS record will be terminated → You must leave the U.S. immediately.
🔴 You cannot stay in the U.S. on an F-1 visa without active enrollment.
🔴 To return later, you may need to apply for a new F-1 visa.

📌 If you transfer to another U.S. school within 5 months, you may be able to keep your status.

---

🔹 4️⃣ Can You Stay in the U.S. If You Take a Break?

✅ Yes, if you qualify for an exception (like medical leave or RCL).
❌ No, if your SEVIS record is terminated—you must leave and reapply.

🚀 Best option: Transfer to another school quickly to maintain your F-1 status.

---

🟢 Summary: What Happens If You Take a Break or Drop Out?

❌ If you stop studying without approval, your F-1 status is terminated, and you must leave the U.S.
✔ If you take an approved leave, you may return later with a new I-20.
✔ Transferring to another school within 5 months can help maintain your status.
📌 Always talk to your DSO before making any decisions!

🚀 Need help with school transfers or reinstatement? 😊

1 Lakh+ Prime Vendors Email Contacts : https://topmate.io/story_hustle/1492585