F1 Student Travel Advisory (March 13, 2020)

With Fairmont’s transition to online learning, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Fairmont Schools highly recommend all international students remain in the country during our temporary closure and move to online learning. Remaining in the country allows the student to maintain their status even during school closure. Many areas throughout the world are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions.

Students choosing to disregard our advice and return to their home country during the temporary school closure must be aware of the long-term implications of such travel.

• Due to the fact that we cannot guarantee re-entry to the U.S., this puts your I-20 and F-1 visa in jeopardy along with your current and long-term enrollment at Fairmont Schools.
• Once school resumes on campus all international students must be in the United States to begin course work.
• If you are denied re-entry Fairmont Schools is required to terminate your I-20 which will eliminate all second-semester coursework and credit.
• If a student has traveled to a high-risk area, they must return to the United States for mandatory self-quarantine for 14 days prior to returning to campus.
• Per Fairmont Schools policy, self-quarantine must be with an approved guardian outside of the Boarding and Homestay program.
• The online learning environment requires the student to be active and participating during normal school hours. With time differences overseas and unreliable internet connections, this may impact students’ ability to participate and thus affect students’ grades.
• Health Insurance for international students will be voided if students travel to areas of high risk.

Should you have questions regarding your I-20 and/or F-1 visa you can contact Betty Petersen, bpetersen@fairmontschools.com

*Please understand that this is a working plan and will be updated as circumstances require.