A Division of the International Studies Office
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CPT NOTICE
Effective immediately, UVA is suspending the authorization of non-required, course-credit CPT requests. This includes opportunities tied to academic credit, which are integral to the program of study but not required for degree completion. Visit CPT Update | International Students & Scholars Program for the latest information.
Duration of Status & Academic Mobility
On September 14, 2026, a nationwide preliminary injunction was issued, which blocks the Elimination of Duration of Status rule from taking effect and prohibits DHS and USCIS from implementing it. The government is expected to appeal the injunction. Please continue to monitor our FAQ page, which we will continue to update with any developments as the case continues.
The Department of Homeland Security's rule introduces significant changes to regulations governing F and J visa holders, including:
- The elimination of Duration of Status
- Restrictions on academic mobility
For more information visit FAQ: Elimination of Duration of Status & Academic Mobility | International Students & Scholars Program
Do You Need a Visa Document from UVa?
F-1 or J-1
Determine first whether you wish to obtain F-1 status or J-1 status. The vast majority of students at UVA choose F-1 status since J-1 status is only available to certain students and often comes with a two-year home residency requirement. More information about each classification may be found here.
Application for Visa Documents
Once you have made a decision about the visa status for which you qualify, complete the appropriate Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 Request on ISSP Connect
Financial Documentation and Requirements
In addition to the FGF, we will need to review your documents which confirm that ready bank funds exist to cover a minimum of one year of study. Check the FGF for the required amount for your program of study. If the entire sum for all years of study is not immediately available in bank funds, additional documentation - such as a letter of employment for your sponsor - will be needed to demonstrate financial capability to fund the remaining years of study.
Students receiving funding from their department should indicate the amount of funding on the FGF, and enclose a copy of the award letter from the department.
Passport as Indicator of Legal Name
Please provide a copy of your passport identity page, as visa documents must correspond to your legal name as it is entered on your passport.