Shepherd School of Language

Shepherd
School of
Language

Reinstatement

Let’s Get You Back on Track.

If you have failed to maintain your non-immigrant status, you may be eligible to apply for reinstatement to restore your legal F-1 status without departing the United States.

Step 1

Secure Admission: Apply by filling out the SSL Online Application and receive your official Letter of Acceptance.

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Step 2

Coordinate SEVIS Release: Submit your Acceptance Letter to your current school’s DSO. They will set a “Transfer Release Date” in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).  Yes, your terminated I-20 record must be transferred to us.

Step 3

Let’s get it started: After a few days of the release date, the SSL DSO will file for reinstatement in SEVIS.  Now we need to file your reinstatement to USCIS.

Step 4

Enroll & Thrive: Report to SSL, attend orientation, and begin your classes to MAINTAIN your status.  You must be in GOOD standing, othewise your application will be denied

Option 1

Reinstatement (Stay in the U.S.)

This process involves asking U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to “forgive” your status violation and restore your legal standing while you remain in the country.

Option 2

Travel and Re-entry

Instead of filing an application with USCIS, you leave the U.S. and re-enter with a brand-“NEW” Initial I-20.

Official guidance on Traveling as an International Student and the requirements for re-entering the U.S

Am I Eligible for Reinstatement?

Pursuant to 8 CFR 214.2(f)(16), you may be eligible to regain your status if:

  • The status violation occurred within the last 5 months, or exceptional circumstances prevented earlier filing.
  • The violation resulted from circumstances beyond your control.
  • You are currently pursuing, or intend to pursue, a full course of study.
  • You have not engaged in unauthorized employment.

Disclaimer: Shepherd School of Language is an educational institution and is not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice or legal representation. The adjudication of Change of Status applications is at the sole discretion of USCIS. We strongly recommend that applicants with complex legal situations consult with a licensed immigration attorney.

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Take the First Step Today

Time is critical for reinstatement cases. Click the “Fill Out Now” button the SSL Online Application to start your application, or contact our International Admissions team via WhatsApp for a confidential consultation.

Compassionate Support.
Professional Guidance.

Navigating a loss of F-1 status can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Shepherd School of Language, we specialize in helping dedicated students successfully apply for reinstatement and return to their academic journey.

Reinstatement Document Checklist

  • Form I-539: File online or by mail.
  • I-94 Record: Your most recent arrival/departure history.
  • New I-20: Issued by our school for “Reinstatement.”
  • Passport & Visa: Clear copies of your ID and F-1 visa page.
  • Financial Proof: Recent bank statements (less than 6 months old).
  • Transcripts: Records from all previous U.S. schools attended
  • Personal Statement: A letter explaining why the violation occurred.
  • Evidence of Hardship: Any documentation (e.g., medical records) proving the violation was beyond your control.
Apply Now

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our experienced DSOs will walk you through the Form I-539 filing process.

Official Support

We issue the necessary Reinstatement I-20 and provide a supporting letter for your application.

Continued Education

While your application is pending, you can remain in the U.S. and continue your English studies in our high-quality ESL programs.

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