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.

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.

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.

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.

Tell Us How We Did!

Scan, Click or Touch!

    
 
 
         
   OIS 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and quick response by Jane. Super helpful
  
 
        
   Daria Oleinik 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience at Shepherd School of Language! From the very beginning, everyone was incredibly kind, welcoming, and supportive. The staff truly cares about their students and is always ready to help, especially with questions related to the program and international student requirements. I’m very grateful for how patient, understanding, and helpful everyone was throughout the process. They made everything feel much easier and less stressful. I would definitely recommend Shepherd School of Language to anyone looking for a supportive and friendly place to study English!
  
 
        
   Jean Victor Passos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had a great experience with this school. The staff is very professional, helpful, and genuinely cares about their students. Recently, I needed some important documentation for an urgent immigration matter, and the team was incredibly responsive. They understood how time-sensitive the situation was and provided everything I needed on the very same day. I was really impressed by their efficiency, kindness, and willingness to help. It is very reassuring to know that you can count on the school when you need support, especially in important situations like this. Their excellent communication and dedication to their students really make a difference. I’m very grateful for all their help and would definitely recommend this school to anyone looking to study English in the United States!
  
 
        
   Camila Andrea 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gran calidad de enseñanza en las clases!
  
 
        
   Zaid Badar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An Incredible Experience – Highly Recommended! Choosing the Shepherd School of Language (SSL) has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. From day one, the environment has been incredibly welcoming, supportive, and deeply motivating. The instructors here are phenomenal. They don’t just teach grammar rules out of a textbook, they bring the language to life with dynamic lessons, practical conversations, and personalized feedback. They genuinely care about each student's progress and go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels confident. I am especially impressed by their new College Entrance Preparation (CEP) program. It is exactly what students need to transition smoothly into a university setting, focusing on critical thinking, academic lectures, and mastering standardized exams like the TOEFL and TSI. It provides the perfect bridge to build the real world proficiency needed to succeed in a college degree. Whether you are looking to master the basics or prepare for higher education, this school provides all the tools, resources, and encouragement you need to succeed. If you are looking for a language school that offers high quality education and a fantastic community, look no further than SSL!
  
 
        
   Micky B 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Love this School!! :')
  
 
        
   Damaris Terrani 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jason is an outstanding ESL teacher! He is incredibly patient, kind and understanding, and he always creates a welcoming and encouraging classroom environment. I feel comfortable learning and practicing english with him.
  
 
        
   Micaela Bautista 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is the best English school I've ever been to! The teachers are knowledgeable and supportive, the staff is always kind and helpful, and the learning environment is welcoming and motivating. I highly recommend this school to anyone who wants to improve their English.
  
 
  
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 4.8 of 5, based on 166 reviews

Official Government Resources

USCIS: Check My Case Status – Track your pending application.
Study in the States – Official DHS guide to maintaining F-1 status.
USCIS Address Change (AR-11) – Update your address while your case is pending.
USCIS Form I-539– The official application to restore your status.
CBP I-94 Website– Download your most recent arrival/departure record.
USCIS Case Status Tracker– Check the progress of your pending application.
Guide to Studying in the States – Official rules on maintaining F-1 student status.
USCIS Online Address Change– Update your address while your case is pending (Form AR-11)