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We hope you're enjoying the summer and finding time to relax and recharge. As temperatures rise in Seattle over the coming days, we encourage you to stay cool, drink plenty of water, and take breaks from the heat when needed especially if you’re living in housing without air conditioning.
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For those of you currently abroad, summer is also a common time to renew your U.S. visa. If your F-1 or J-1 visa has expired or will expire before you return, be sure to review the visa renewal information included in this newsletter to help you plan ahead.
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We also know many F-1 students who recently graduated are beginning to receive their OPT approvals. If that’s you, congratulations! Be sure to visit our SEVP webpage for detailed guidance on what to do once your EAD card arrives and how to report your employment.
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Renewing Your Visa during the Summer Break
Summer break is the perfect time for many international students to travel home, reconnect with loved ones, and take care of important matters including renewing a U.S. visa. If you’re an F-1 or J-1 student planning to leave the country this summer, and your visa has expired or will expire before your return, you will want to understand the visa renewal process and plan ahead.
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OPT Processing Times
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F-1 students can check the current OPT (Optional Practical Training) processing times by visiting the USCIS Case Processing Times webpage. Select Form I-765 and choose the service center listed on your receipt notice. This will show the estimated time USCIS is taking to process OPT applications. Keep in mind that processing times are estimates and can vary. You can also track your case status using your receipt number at uscis.gov/casestatus or through your USCIS account.
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Visa Screening & Vetting
On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued updated guidance implementing expanded screening and vetting procedures for nonimmigrant visa applicants, including F-1 and J-1 student categories. These changes are part of broader efforts to enhance national security and ensure thorough review of applicants’ backgrounds prior to visa issuance.
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- July 24: STEM OPT Information Session (Register)
- August 22: End of Summer quarter
- September 01: Office Closed (Holiday)
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