July 12, 2021 Immigration Advisory – Special Edition

1. UPDATE – Enrollment requirements for fall 202

1. UPDATE – Enrollment requirements for fall 2021

Based on the June 30, 2021, announcement by President Kirk that WSU will return to in-person full capacity this fall, the ISSS interpretation of SEVP guidance is that it applies to schools that are continuing to stay all or mostly online. Since WSU is returning to its pre-pandemic settings, to maintain valid F and J statuses international students will need to be enrolled in face-to-face courses, and only one online course will be allowed to count toward full-time enrollment.

Below is a short FAQ to help clarify some of WSU’s requirements for a safe return to our fall semester.

Can international students and scholars travel to the U.S. without the vaccine?

Yes, you can travel to the U.S. without a vaccine. Currently, you do need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before you board a plane to the United States. More information about that is here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/covid-19_testing_required_US_Entry.html

Can international students and scholars receive vaccine upon arrival?

Yes, students and scholars can receive vaccine upon arrival. Please visit our Covid-19 FAQ page for more information.

Students must show proof of vaccination or an approved exception by Aug. 6. You can do that by uploading proof of an acceptable vaccine to Cougar Health Services patient portal, the first shot of one, or that you have made an appointment to get the vaccine. WSU will offer vaccine clinics Aug. 19 and 20 as well.

Are vaccines received outside the United States acceptable?

Vaccines that are received outside of the United States are acceptable only if they are listed on the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Use List (EUL).

Where can I find the vaccines listed on the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Use List (EUL)?

To see the vaccines listed on the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Use List (EUL) visit: https://extranet.who.int/pqweb/sites/default/files/documents/Status%20of%20COVID-19%20Vaccines%20within%20WHO%20EUL-PQ%20evaluation%20process%20-%203%20June%202021r.pdf

Do I need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to come to the United States and specifically to WSU?

No, you are not required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. However, if you have been vaccinated, please provide evidence of that vaccination when you come to WSU.

How do I maintain my visa status this year now that WSU is returning to more normal operations?

You will need to be enrolled in face-to-face courses, and only one online course will be allowed to count toward full-time enrollment. If you want to stay in a virtual learning environment, please contact us so we can advise you of options. WSU programs will be back to face-to-face, which means you should plan to physically come to WSU.

Which offices should I contact if I have questions? 

Current international students and scholars can contact: ip.intlservices@wsu.edu.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions.


If you have any questions about the above announcements, please contact International Student and Scholar Services.