2020 - 2021 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to frequently asked immigration-related questions for 2020-2021. These are for current students, scholars and those arriving in spring 2021 and beyond. We review this information weekly and update as needed.
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NEWS
USCIS Extends Flexibilities to Certain OPT Applicants
USCIS today announced flexibilities for certain foreign students affected by delayed receipt notices for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. These flexibilities apply only to applications received on or after Oct. 1, 2020, through May 1, 2021, inclusive.
Tax Filing Information
IRS Requires Form 8843 Even if You Had No Income. Form 8843 is required by the IRS of all Fs and Js (including their F-2 and J-2 dependent spouses and children) who are "nonresident aliens" for federal tax purposes and were physically in the U.S. at any time in 2020, even if you had no U.S. income in 2020.
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USCIS Update Regarding OPT Applications
NAFSA published a copy of the February 18, 2021 email message from the Public Engagement Division of USCIS, in which they acknowledge the impact that the delay in receipting and processing OPT applications has had on F-1 student applicants, and provide clarifications and an update on what they are doing to address the problem.
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International Student/Scholar/Alumni Spotlights
Read stories about our amazing international community!
