Coronavirus FAQs

(Updated 11/15/2022)

With the ever-changing events surrounding the COVID-19, Rice international students and scholars are directly impacted – personally, academically, professionally, travel plans, as well as caring and communicating with family and friends. In addition, you must manage and maintain your immigration status, as well.

The FAQs below are based on what international students and scholars are asking, and what our OISS advisors believe is important for you to know, as the situation evolves. If your question is not answered below, please do not hesitate to email oiss@rice.edu.

For information that is not specific to international students, including health resources if you believe you have been exposed, please see https://coronavirus.rice.edu/.

This page includes information on the following topics:

  • OISS Operations/Services
  • COVID-19 Mandates/Regulatory Updates
  • Current Students
  • Current J-1 Scholars
  • Travel
  • CPT & OPT
  • New Students
  • Future J-1 Scholars who are currently abroad

Please note that the FAQs below are not exhaustive and the information may vary depending on specific circumstances, or change as new guidelines and regulations are announced. OISS continues to update the FAQs as the situation evolves, so please check back often. Thank you for your patience.

OISS OPERATIONS/SERVICES

1. Is the OISS office currently open?

Yes, the Office of International Students and Scholars is open and we have reception desks on both the First (Room 101) and Second (Room 201) floors of Lovett Hall, Entrance A.

1) Appointments with an OISS advisor
We offer appointments by phone, zoom, or in-person. When scheduling an appointment, please specify your preferred option and we will accommodate accordingly. To schedule an appointment please call 713-348-6095 or email oiss@rice.edu.

2) Document pick-up
Documents are primarily available for pick-up at the first floor reception desk. When the first floor is temporarily closed, documents can be picked up on the second floor.

3) Document Submission
We encourage you to continue using our online options:

As always, you can also reach OISS by phone during regular office hours at 713-348-6098 or by email at oiss@rice.edu. Please also see the rest of our website, as you may find the answer to your question on another page.

2. Can I make an appointment with OISS?

Yes! We are available for in-person appointments as well as remote appointments via telephone or Zoom. Please call our main phone line at 713-348-6095 or email oiss@rice.edu to schedule an appointment.

3. How can I submit request forms, document updates, etc.?

You may submit most requests through our online submission forms. Links are listed below (OISS allows electronic signatures on all internal forms):

4. How can I request a travel signature on my I-20/DS-2019 and how long it takes to receive it?

Please see https://oiss.rice.edu/travel for your options on how to request a travel signature. Generally it takes one business day, but we also offer on-the-spot processing at certain times.

5. I asked my OPT card (or other mail) to be delivered to OISS. How will I get it?

OISS receives mail daily. You will be notified by email when any mail for you is delivered to OISS, and the email will include instructions for picking up your mail or requesting for mail forwarding, whichever is more convenient for you. For more information, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/getdocs.

6. Can COVID-19 affect my I-20/DS-2019 mailing and issuance?

We continue to process immigration documents for newly admitted students as well as issue updated I-20s and DS-2019s for current international students and scholars, as needed. SEVP has given schools permission to issue I-20s electronically, so you can receive a valid I-20 by email. DS-2019s for new students and scholars will be mailed in coordination with the academic departments, please contact them directly with your mailing related questions. For current J-1 students and scholars, please work with your OISS advisor to determine the best way for you to receive any updated documents. Processing times will vary from a week to longer, and mailing times are unfortunately not something we can control.

7. How can I stay informed about Rice updates, as well as OISS?

Rice and the OISS will continue to send updates as needed, and you may access Rice's COVID-19 related messages at https://coronavirus.rice.edu/communication. Rice continues to take the threat of this virus very seriously, and we truly care about your health and safety, following guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For general information, please take the time to also read the following FAQ pages, which offer a lot of important information and resources:

COVID-19 MANDATES/REGULATORY UPDATES

1. Could you provide a summary of vaccine and testing requirements at Rice, resources, etc.?

For information on Rice requirements, please see https://coronavirus.rice.edu/.

COVID-19 Vaccines

COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 News

Travel

Additional Information

2. Can I apply for a Texas Driver License or State ID right now?

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has resumed all services, available by appointment only. More information and a link to schedule an appointment is posted at https://www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/appointments.htm.

3. Can I apply for a Social Security Number right now?

The Social Security offices have resumed in-person services without requiring an appointment. To learn more, please see https://blog.ssa.gov/social-security-administration-to-resume-in-person-services-at-local-social-security-offices/.

Please note that while SSA has confirmed that they will accept electronically issued I-20s (as long as they are printed and hand signed by the student), many other supporting documentation, including Employment Verification Forms for on-campus work, must have original, hand written signatures. See https://oiss.rice.edu/ssn for more information, and check https://www.ssa.gov/ for office locations.

4. What if I have questions about the Coronavirus Stimulus Payments/CARES Act?

It is our understanding that the Coronavirus Stimulus Payment (CARES Act) is intended for U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents based on specific income levels as reported on a 2018 or 2019 tax return. Based on most recent information posted by IRS, nonimmigrant internationals may also be eligible if they are considered resident aliens for tax purposes. Stimulus checks will be sent/direct deposited to qualifying individuals based on the address/bank account listed on their 2018 or 2019 tax return. Additional information can be found on the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.

If you received a stimulus payment and believe it was in error, or just have additional questions, please visit this helpful blog post by Sprintax for guidance on how to return the payment: http://blog.sprintax.com/nonresident-aliens-guide-navigating-covid-19-cares-act-stimulus-payments/

Murthy Law Firm also has helpful information for you to review at https://www.murthy.com/2020/04/08/newsflash-government-report-confirms-many-nonimmigrants-eligible-for-stimulus-payment/

As a reminder, IRS will NOT call, email, or text you regarding this payment. They will not contact you to request personal or bank account information. Please beware of scammers: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-issues-warning-about-coronavirus-related-scams-watch-out-for-schemes-tied-to-economic-impact-payments

5. Where can I get a comprehensive list of regulatory, visa and immigration updates, related to the COVID-19 evolving situation?

Please see the NAFSA Coronavirus Critical Resources webpage at https://www.nafsa.org/regulatory-information/coronavirus-critical-resources.

CURRENT STUDENTS

1. What is the current status of ICE guidelines for F-1 students?

SEVP has confirmed that schools should continue to follow the original guidance (issued in March 2020) for the 2022-2023 academic year.

2. Can you summarize the guidance that is currently in place for F-1 students and what it means for me?

Here’s a quick summary of the current guidance and Rice expectations. Please know that your individual circumstances may vary.

F-1 students currently in the U.S. must enroll full-time (9 credits for graduate students, 12 for undergrads). Students are expected to follow standard in-person enrollment requirements. For more information on standard F-1 and J-1 regulations, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/maintaining-status.

Continuing F-1 students currently abroad are expected to return to the U.S. for the Fall semester by August 22, 2022. If you are unable to get a visa, please work with your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to see if you can continue to enroll full-time from abroad, but please note that this is unlikely to get approved. If you cannot remain enrolled full-time from abroad, we must terminate your F-1 visa status.

Students who have started their academic program remotely from abroad are expected to arrive for the Fall semester by August 22, 2022. If you are unable to get a visa and arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for a late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, or delay your arrival to the Spring or Fall 2023 semester.

3. If Rice offers classes both in person and online, can I just opt to take online courses from anywhere?

Students are expected to follow standard in-person enrollment requirements, which allow you to take no more than 3 credits online. For more information on standard F-1 and J-1 regulations, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/maintaining-status.

4. What if I choose to take a leave of absence?

Please work with your academic department/Dean of Undergraduate's Office to officially request a leave of absence. Once approved, a leave of absence requires OISS to terminate your current SEVIS record. You would require a new initial I-20 under a new SEVIS record when you are ready to return to Rice. Please note that you would have to pay a new SEVIS fee, and your eligibility for off-campus work authorization would be affected, as you would need to complete two semesters in status before qualifying for CPT or OPT (very limited exceptions may apply in case of CPT for some graduate students). Please contact OISS to schedule an appointment if you would like to discuss this option further.

5. I'm on a J-1 student visa, what are the current rules in place for me?

Here’s a quick summary of most recent guidelines provided by the Department of State. Please know that your individual circumstances may vary and further updates to these guidelines are possible.

J-1 students currently in the U.S.must enroll full-time (9 credits for graduate students, 12 for undergrads). Students are expected to follow standard in-person enrollment requirements. For more information on standard F-1 and J-1 regulations, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/maintaining-status.

J-1 students currently abroad who wish to and are able to return to the U.S. should be able to do so, as long as they have maintained valid J-1 status and have a valid visa and a valid DS-2019 with a travel signature no older than 6 months.

Students who have started their academic program remotely from abroad are expected to arrive for the Fall semester by August 22, 2022. If you are unable to get a visa and arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for a late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, or delay your arrival to the Spring or Fall 2023 semester.

6. Do I need to update my address on ESTHER?

Yes, please update all of the address fields that have changed so your ESTHER account and SEVIS record will reflect the most current and up-to-date information.

Please update your mailing address field with the physical address where you are currently residing. Please keep in mind that you must update your address within 10 days of any change in order to maintain your immigration status.

7. I'm currently studying remotely from abroad, can I still accept/continue an on-campus job?

If the work can be done remotely, ICE is currently allowing the option due to COVID-19. OISS will need an email from the on-campus employer explaining how the student is providing the services associated with the position and how the student will be supervised while working remotely. The student should also work with Hiring Department/Payroll to ensure there are no tax reporting or payment issues while the student is abroad.

8. Does my student insurance cover COVID-19?

Please see https://oiss.rice.edu/studenthealth for information on COVID-19 for both Aetna and Wellfleet insurance.

9. Is there a U.S. government website where I can find immigration updates for students?

https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students

CURRENT J-1 SCHOLARS

1. I am near the end of my program, and I am concerned about finding a flight out of the U.S. within my 30-day grace period, what are my options?

We recommend scheduling an appointment with an OISS advisor, as well as contacting your embassy/consulate for travel guidance. Check https://j1visa.state.gov/covid-19/ for updated list of embassy contacts and for other important information. You may also wish to reach out to your Academic Department to see if there is a possibility of extending your program.

2. I am a J-1 Scholar at Rice planning on departing/returning home early, what do I need to do?

Please communicate with your Academic Department so they are able to follow up with the necessary shortening/termination paperwork. In addition, please complete the OISS online Departure Form.

3. Where can I access U.S. governmental resources on COVID-19/my immigration status?

See the following links and phone numbers:

4. If I have questions about my immigration status due to COVID-19, how can I contact an OISS Advisor?

To schedule an appointment with an advisor, please visit https://oiss.rice.edu/appointment.

5. How do I access medical care in the U.S. if I get sick?

In case of a life threatening emergency always call 911. If the emergency is not life threatening call the phone on the back of your insurance ID card to find an Urgent Care within your insurance Network.

To learn about your insurance benefits, to find a health professional or to learn about what your insurance covers for COVID-19 please contact your health insurance company.

Make sure that you have your Insurance ID card at all times. Your Insurance ID card has the information that you need for finding out your plan coverage and submitting a claim. You will have to present your ID card every time you go to the doctor, hospital or pharmacy.

6. Where can I find more information about my health insurance coverage for COVID-19?

If you have Rice's Aetna insurance, please visit the Aetna webpage for the latest information: https://www.aetna.com/individuals-families/member-rights-resources/need-to-know-coronavirus.html. On that webpage you can find detailed information and frequently asked questions regarding telemedicine, test and treatments and other tips to stay safe. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, we encourage you to contact the insurance company and/or Rice's Benefits Team for assistance.

If you have Wellfleet, please visit https://wellfleetstudent.com/covid-19/.
For frequently asked questions please visit: https://wellfleetstudent.com/student-well-being/coronavirus-faq-for-student-health-members/. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, we encourage you to contact the insurance company directly.

For information on free COVID-19 testing sites in Houston, visit the Houston Emergency Operations COVID-19 website: https://houstonemergency.org/covid-19-testing/.

7. I am currently outside of the U.S. but plan to maintain my J status. What do I need to do?

If you leave the U.S. but continue to work towards your exchange program objectives while outside the U.S., you may qualify for “Out of Country” approval. For more information, including required forms and approvals, please contact an OISS advisor.

8. I just recently arrived in the U.S. with my new J-1 status. What should I do now?

Welcome to Rice! Please contact your Academic Department to let them know that you have arrived. If you are paid with Rice, also make sure to contact Human Resources regarding the I-9 and benefits process. Finally, contact OISS to start your check-in process by requesting access to an OISS Portal account. For more information, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/scholar-orientation.

Before visiting Rice campus, please contact your Academic Department for work arrangements. Finally please read any Rice updates here.

TRAVEL

1. Can I travel internationally right now?

OISS recommends caution when traveling. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of State's website on COVID-19 Country Specific Information and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website on International Travel.

Here are some factors you may want to consider if you’re thinking about leaving the U.S.:

  • The expiration of your current immigration document (e.g. I-20 or DS-2019).
  • The validity of your travel signature.
  • The validity of your visa and passport; many U.S. Consulates are still closed or offering very limited visa services, so you may not be able to renew your U.S. visa easily.
  • Are there travel restrictions in place for your destination?
  • Are you able to continue maintaining your status (e.g. through online enrollment) from abroad?
  • The vaccination and testing requirements in place for returning to the U.S. (see below for additional information)
  • If you are unable to return to the U.S. as planned and there are delays, will that cause difficulties for you?

If you choose to travel, please check your I-20/DS-2019 for a travel signature. If you need an updated form with a new signature, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/travel for your options.

For information on getting a COVID-19 test, please see the Frequently Asked Questions on Rice's Coronavirus webpage (section "COVID Testing Questions").

2. What are the vaccination and/or testing requirements for international travel?

The information below discusses the requirements for entering the United States. Please make sure to also research the vaccination and/or testing requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit or transit through as part of your travel, as they may be different from those required by the U.S. For more information, please see the U.S. Department of State's website on COVID-19 Country Specific Information.

Currently all international travelers will be required to show proof of vaccination prior to arrival in the United States, subject to limited exceptions.

As of June 12, 2022, air passengers traveling to the United States are no longer required to show a negative COVID-19 test.

Please see the CDC website on international travel for more detailed information.

For Frequently Asked Questions on COVID Vaccinations and Testing for International Travel, please see: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies/covid-19-faqs-for-travel-to-the-us-information.html.

We encourage you to also reach out to your airline for additional guidance, as they are responsible for reviewing the applicable vaccination documentation, and therefore have the authority to enforce these restrictions.

Additional resources are also listed below.

3. Are there additional resources for international travel vaccination requirements?

White House Proclamation: A Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-⁠19 Pandemic (whitehouse.gov)

White House Statement: Fact Sheet: Biden Administration Releases Additional Detail for Implementing a Safer, More Stringent International Air Travel System (whitehouse.gov)

CDC Information Page: International Travel (CDC.gov)

U.S. Department of State FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Vaccinations and Testing for International Travel (travel.state.gov)

Helpful summary from Foster: Major Updates to Pandemic-Related International Travel Restrictions (fosterglobal.com)

4. How long is a travel signature valid?

We recommend 6 months, but the U.S. government requires the signature to be no older than 1 year from your date of entry back into the U.S. For example, if you got a travel signature on pg. 2 of your I-20 (or pg. 1 of your DS-2019) on 5/27/2022, technically it will be valid until 5/26/2023.

If you need a new travel signature, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/travel.

Special Note: If you are currently on OPT, the travel signature is officially only valid for 6 months.

5. What if the visa in my passport has expired?

If your visa stamp has expired, you will need to apply for a new one in order to re-enter the U.S. (Exception: Canadian citizens do not require visa stamps in their passports.) During this quickly-evolving COVID-19 emergency time, please stay tuned to https://travel.state.gov to learn about the Consulate closures or continued suspension of visa processing.

6. For individuals returning or arriving from abroad, is there a required prohibition period from campus?

Rice does not require self-quarantine following international travel, but all travelers should still exercise caution. Please refer to the official Rice COVID-19 website and FAQs at https://coronavirus.rice.edu/ for the most up-to-date information on Rice policies.

7. I am a J-1 Scholar and I'm trying to find a flight home. Can OISS help me with this?

The U.S. Department of State recommends reaching out to your Embassy in Washington D.C. for assistance. Check https://j1visa.state.gov/covid-19/ for updated list of embassy contacts and for other important information.

CPT & OPT
For general questions regarding CPT & OPT, please visit https://oiss.rice.edu/studentwork.
For general questions regarding STEM OPT, please visit https://oiss.rice.edu/stem.

1. Does OISS accept electronic signatures on CPT and OPT forms?

Yes, OISS allows electronic or digital signatures on all internal forms from students, faculty advisors, and course instructors.

USCIS does not accept digital signatures on paper based applications, so for OPT the Form I-765 should still be signed by hand in black ink on page 5 before mailing your final application to USCIS, if you are filing a paper based application.

2. What happens if I get authorization for CPT but my internship gets cancelled or delayed because of COVID-19?

Please let OISS know at https://bit.ly/cptupdates that your internship is cancelled/dates have changed as soon as you learn about it. We may need to cancel/shorten/update your CPT authorization in SEVIS properly and in a timely manner.

3. I'm authorized for CPT and my employer is now telling me to work remotely. Do I need to do anything with OISS?

Yes! Please submit the new information at https://bit.ly/cptupdates so we can update your CPT authorization in SEVIS.

4. Can I continue my CPT from abroad?

Yes, you may engage in CPT during your time abroad as long as the following conditions are met:

  • CPT is authorized in advance of your start date (as always)
  • It is an integral part of your program of study (as always)
  • Your employer has an office abroad or can assess your engagement and learning objectives electronically

5. Can I apply for OPT or STEM OPT outside of the U.S.?

Current regulations require that you be present in the U.S. when applying for OPT or STEM OPT. We are not aware of any accommodations made by USCIS to change this regulation, but we will update this FAQ if such accommodations are made at any point.

6. Is USCIS currently processing OPT applications?

Yes, USCIS continues to process OPT and STEM OPT applications.

7. I have filed a paper based OPT application (and included the Form G-1145), but I have not yet received a receipt number. What should I do?

If you have a tracking number for your shipment, please check to make sure it’s been delivered. USCIS might take up to 15 business days from that date to send you a receipt number. If you do not receive a receipt number within that time, please email oiss@rice.edu.

If you paid for the application with check or Form G-1450, you can also keep track of whether they are processing your payment.

8. What happens if my OPT/STEM OPT employer requires me to work from home?

If you are working remotely for the same employer as a result of COVID-19, but the terms and other specifics of your employment stay the same, you do not need to report the physical location of your new work site via your SEVP student portal or on your Form I-983. However, you should continue to update the SEVP Portal with any other changes to your employment, your address, etc. In addition, if your immigration status has changed, or you have departed the U.S. permanently and do not intend to pursue the remaining of your OPT or STEM OPT, please notify OISS as soon as possible.

9. What happens with my OPT if only part-time employment is available at the moment?

Due to COVID-19 situation, part-time employment (i.e., fewer than 20 hours per week) is currently considered valid by SEVP for OPT employment purposes and maintaining your status. Please note that this accommodation is currently in place until the end of the 2022-2023 academic year.

10. I’m nearing 90 days of unemployment on OPT/150 days of unemployment on STEM OPT. What are my options?

Please contact OISS (oiss@rice.edu or 713-348-6095) to consult with an advisor about your options.

11. I was selected in the H-1B lottery and I need a Cap Gap extension. What do I do?

If you need a cap gap I-20, you may request for one at https://bit.ly/ineedcapgap. Cap gap I-20 requests will be processed as follows:

  • If your Cap Gap extension is already reflected in SEVIS, we will issue your I-20 within one week.
  • If your Cap Gap extension is not reflected in SEVIS and your OPT does not expire within the next 2 weeks, we will continue to check SEVIS for updates, and issue your I-20 once the extension is available.
  • If your Cap Gap extension is not reflected in SEVIS and your OPT is expiring soon, we will contact you for proof of filing (e.g. USCIS Receipt Notice, delivery confirmation from FedEx, etc.) so we can manually request a preliminary cap gap extension, as necessary.

NEW STUDENTS

1. What do I need to know about admissions processing?

OISS continues to process I-20s and DS-2019s for admitted students. However, we are able to process immigration documents only after (1) the student’s record is created in Rice’s system, and (2) OISS received the initial admission paperwork. At that point the student will receive an invitation to the OISS Portal, where they can upload the required documents and information. Please note that the OISS Portal invitation will be sent to their non-Rice email address.

More detailed information about the process, including step by step instructions and a list of required documents for the OISS Portal, can be found on the following pages:

SEVP allows schools to issue valid I-20s by email, so we will be sending all I-20s to the email address reported for you in SEVIS (typically your Rice University email address). SEVP has worked with both Department of State (responsible for issuing visas) and Customs & Border Protection (responsible for admitting students at the port of entry) to ensure that I-20s issued by email will be honored, as long as they are printed out and signed by hand by the student. An electronic version of the emailed I-20 displayed from your phone or other device will not be considered valid.

2. What is the current status of ICE guidelines?

SEVP has confirmed that schools may continue to follow the original guidance (issued in March 2020) for the 2022-2023 academic year.

3. Can you summarize the guidance that is currently in place for F-1 students and what it means for me?

Here’s a quick summary of what is in place at this time. Please know that your individual circumstances may vary.

F-1 students currently in the U.S.must enroll full-time (9 credits for graduate students, 12 for undergrads). Students are expected to follow standard in-person enrollment requirements. For more information on standard F-1 and J-1 regulations, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/maintaining-status.

Students who have started their academic program remotely from abroad are expected to arrive for the Fall semester by August 22, 2022. If you are unable to get a visa and arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for a late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, or delay your arrival to the Spring or Fall 2023 semester.

New students admitted for Fall 2022 should try to arrive by the start date on their I-20, which is based on mandatory orientation programming. Students unable to arrive by the orientation date must notify OISS to get an updated I-20, and arrive no later than August 22, 2022 for the official start of the semester. If you are unable to arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for: a) late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, b) starting your academic program by enrolling online remotely from abroad, OR c) a deferral of your admission to a future term.

4. When are new F-1 students allowed to enter the U.S.?

New students are allowed to seek entry to the U.S. within a 30 day window based on their I-20 start date (i.e., from 30 days before the start date until the start date listed on the I-20). Please refer to the Earliest Admission Date field on your I-20 for the specific date.

5. If Rice offers classes both in person and online, can I just opt to take online courses from anywhere?

Students are expected to attend courses in-person.

6. I transferred an existing SEVIS record to Rice but I am currently abroad and have not been able to enter the U.S. What do I need to know?

Since we are unable to register students who are abroad in SEVIS, the transfer SEVIS record will automatically close and the I-20 you have received from Rice will be rendered invalid.

Transfer students who start their academic program remotely from abroad may qualify for a SEVIS data fix request to reactivate their SEVIS record, as long as they maintain their student status by enrolling in a full course of study online. Please note that we may only submit the SEVIS data fix request once you are ready to return to the U.S. and resume in-person studies. Generally the requests cannot be submitted more than 60 days before the start of the Spring semester, but if you need to renew your F-1 visa in order to return to the U.S., we can submit the SEVIS data fix request earlier with confirmation of a scheduled visa appointment. Please keep OISS updated on your travel plans and make sure to read all OISS update emails regarding this topic.

You will need a new I-20 that can only be issued after the SEVIS data fix request has been approved in order to enter the United States. A successful SEVIS data fix would keep your SEVIS ID the same.

At this time we do not know for certain if the data fix option will be available beyond Spring 2023.

7. What are the current rules in place for students with J-1 visas?

Here’s a quick summary of most recent guidelines provided by the Department of State. Please know that your individual circumstances may vary and further updates to these guidelines are possible.

J-1 students currently in the U.S.must enroll full-time (9 credits for graduate students, 12 for undergrads). Students are expected to follow standard in-person enrollment requirements. For more information on standard F-1 and J-1 regulations, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/maintaining-status.

Students who have started their academic program remotely from abroad are expected to arrive for the Fall semester by August 22, 2022. If you are unable to get a visa and arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for a late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, or delay your arrival to the Spring or Fall 2023 semester.

New students admitted for Fall 2022 should try to arrive by the start date of any in-person orientation. Graduate students should contact their academic department for recommended arrival date). Students unable to arrive by the orientation date must arrive no later than August 22, 2022 for immigration purposes. If you are unable to arrive by that date, you may contact your academic department (for graduate students) or Dean of Undergraduates (for undergrads) to request approval for: a) late arrival no later than September 2, 2022, b) starting your academic program by enrolling online remotely from abroad, OR c) a deferral of your admission to a future term.

FUTURE J-1 SCHOLARS WHO ARE CURRENTLY ABROAD

1. I was issued a Rice DS-2019. Can I enter the U.S. whenever I want?

You cannot enter more than 30 days prior to your program start date. In addition to having the DS-2019, you must also have a valid U.S. J Visa (Exception: Canadian citizens do not require visa stamps in their passports) and a valid passport.

Make sure to check the CDC website for travel restrictions as well your airline for any flight delays. You may want to purchase travel insurance or request flexible dates for travel as entry to the U.S. during COVID-19 can be very fluid in regards to entrance/no entrance.

2. I already received my J visa stamp and now my program dates are delayed. Do I have to apply for a new visa?

No, you will most likely not need another visa stamp. Please check the expiration date of the visa stamp in your passport. If you are able to arrive before that expiration date, you will not need to apply for a new visa, even if your arrival date will change.

3. If I have decided to not come to Rice, is there anything I need to do?

Yes, please notify your Academic Department, and send an email to oiss@rice.edu. If you have received your DS-2019, you will have to return it to: Rice/OISS at 6100 Main St., MS-365, Houston TX 77005.

4. I don’t think I am going to be able to arrive at Rice by the start date on my DS-2019, what should I do?

Please contact your Academic Department to update your program dates. Keep in mind that you need to have a valid DS-2019 and visa stamp at the time you enter the U.S.

5. Where can I submit my proof of health insurance?

Your health insurance documentation will be collected through the OISS Portal as part of your check-in process. Please see https://oiss.rice.edu/scholar-orientation for more information.

6. I will be paid by Rice and want to enroll in Aetna, when can I enroll in the Rice/Aetna health insurance plan?

You must submit your Beta insurance to OISS as part of your check-in process. For more information, please see https://oiss.rice.edu/scholar-orientation.

You will be able to enroll in Rice Aetna after you check in with HR. Once you have enrolled you will need to send proof of your Aetna enrollment to OISS.

New employees have 30 days from their hire date (or benefits eligibility date, whichever is later) to enroll in benefits.

If you have questions about Aetna plans or how and when to enroll Aetna, please contact the Benefits office at 713-348-BENE (2363) or benefits@rice.edu.