Jenzabar University

27 July 2020 

A MESSAGE FROM REGINA ROBINSON, DEAN OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

Dear Student, 

In a previous communication, we notified students that Cambridge College is going to be remote and online for the fall 2020 semester. On Friday, we received an important update from Homeland Security that we may not  “issue a Form I-20 to a nonimmigrant student in new or initial status who is outside of the U.S. and plans to take classes at an SEVP-certified educational institution fully online.” (https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/2020/07/read-an-update-on-federal-guidance-for-the-fall-semester). 

We are saddened by this update but excited to work with you to enroll in courses this fall. If you decide to enroll in courses this fall we are requesting that you contact Vera Dimoplon, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and DSO (vera.dimoplon@cambridgecollege.edu). When these guidelines permit us to admit overseas students in initial status we will also work with you to reissue your i20. If you would like to defer your start date to spring 2021, please contact Ms. Dimoplon. 

For students within the United States, we encourage you to maintain lawful presence by ensuring that you are enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits for undergraduates and 8 credits for graduate students this fall. If there are any questions, please contact your PDSO, Maxime Mad-Toingue (maxime.mad-toingue@cambridgecollege.edu).

For students who are seeking OPT, you should cautiously weigh your options to pursue work authorization, maintain active status by continuing your education, or return home. We have provided two links with updated information.  

https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/24/politics/uscis-immigration-citizenship-furlough/index.html

https://fcw.com/articles/2020/07/24/russell-uscis-furloughs-postponed.aspx

We will be updating you periodically as additional information becomes available. We are committed to supporting you through these turbulent times. Please contact our office for additional guidance. 

Warmly, 

Regina Robinson

Dean of Student Affairs

Cambridge College

Prospective International Students

Interested in studying with Cambridge College? Learn more about the application process and required documents, or contact an Admissions Counselor for assistance.

Go to Prospective International Students

Current International Students

Already a member of the Cambridge College community? The International Student Office is here to support you throughout your educational journey.

Go to Current International Students

Maintaining F-1 Status

International students must act in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the US Department of Homeland Security. Each international student at Cambridge College are held responsible for following these 10 rules:

1. To enter the United States, use the I-20 issued by Cambridge College.
2. Students are responsible for keeping their passport and I-20 valid at all times. Any time when there is a change in the information listed on I-20 (i.e., name, major, sponsor, etc.).
3. Students must maintain a full course of study during their first term, as well as every term from September to May. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. Graduate students must be enrolled in minimum of 8 credit hours per semester.
4. When changing one educational level to another within Cambridge College (i.e., bachelor’s to master’s), a new I-20 must be issued to reflect the next degree level.
5. On-campus employment cannot exceed a total of 20 hours per week while school is in session.
6. Off-campus employment authorization may only be obtained from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) through the International Student Office. International students may not be employed off campus without authorization from USCIS.
7. In order to re-enter the United States when traveling abroad, student must obtain a Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) or a Designated School Official (DSO) signature on the I-20 prior to departure. New travel signature is required for each term.
8. Students are responsible for keeping track of the expiration date on their I-20. I-20 can be extended under certain circumstances.
9. Students must report a change of residence to the PDSO/DSO and the USCIS within 10 days of the change.
10. Students must file a tax form by April 15 for each year, regardless whether the student was employed during the previous year or not.

You can find more information about our International Student Services Office on this webpage.

Questions about maintaining your status? Email the International Student Office

Need to make an appointment with the International Student Office?

Click here to request a meeting.