CPT Error Revokes F-1: Gamble Visa on Re-Entry?

An F-1 student is facing possible deportation after their SEVIS record was terminated due to a Curriculum Practical Training error. They forgot to file the CPT I-20 for their summer internship and later reported the mistake to their Office of International Affairs.

Internship Marked as Unauthorised Work

Because the CPT approval was missing, the internship was classified as unauthorised work. This caused the student’s status to be terminated. They were allowed to graduate in December, but they were officially out of status.

No Clear Guidance on Departure

The student says they did not receive exact instructions on when they must leave the United States. They were only told not to stay too long, which created more confusion and stress during an already difficult situation.

Advisor Suggests a Risky Re Entry Plan

The international advisor proposed a high risk method to regain status. The student could enrol in a new Master’s program and receive a new I-20. They would then exit the country and re enter to reactivate their SEVIS status, with Mexico suggested as the easiest border option.

Re Entry Comes With Major Risks

Leaving and re entering the US may result in losing CPT or OPT eligibility. Students must complete two long semesters to regain eligibility, which makes the plan risky. A mistake at the border could also prevent re entry.

Reinstatement Is Another Option

The Designated School Officer mentioned reinstatement as a second option. But reinstatement is slow and uncertain, and many cases get rejected. This leaves the student unsure of their next steps.

Student Faces a Difficult Choice

The student now has two options. They can attempt the risky re entry plan, which could restore their status but may also fail. Or they may have to leave the country entirely and start over from outside the US.