International Student Visa FAQs
Marymount University proudly welcomes scholars from around the world. Our international community enriches campus life by bringing worldwide perspectives to our classrooms, contributing to academic excellence, and fostering a vibrant, global learning environment.
Recent reports of visa revocations and SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record terminations at institutions nationwide have understandably raised concerns among international students. Fortunately, some of these actions have been reversed and a pause on future actions has been announced. Nevertheless, we want to assure you that Marymount fully supports our international community. Our International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) director has actively monitored updates and guidance from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, and we remain in close communication with peer institutions to better understand how we may best serve our students. We continue to advocate for our international students as we believe in protecting the rights and dignity of all community members, and consider it important for everyone to be properly informed.
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding immigration status, SEVIS, visa issues, and available support services. Please contact the Office of the General Counsel with any additional questions or concerns.
Contact Information
Office of General Counsel:
703-526-6962
Campus Safety:
703-284-1600
International Student & Scholar Services:
703-526-6922
Q: Can I travel internationally while on a visa?
A: If you’re planning to travel outside the United States, it’s important to be aware that international travelers are currently subject to heightened scrutiny by both the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This increased review may occur at embassies and consulates abroad, as well as at airports and border entry points. Before making any travel plans, we strongly recommend reviewing the latest immigration and security guidelines to understand the potential risks and requirements for re-entering the U.S.
Q: If my visa is revoked, do I have to leave the United States?
A: If the Department of State revokes your F-1 visa, we strongly recommend consulting with an immigration attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and next steps.
Q: Are immigration enforcement officials allowed on Marymount’s campus?
A: Marymount’s campus includes both public and private areas. Federal immigration officials may access public spaces, such as sidewalks, lobbies, or open common areas, without a warrant. However, they are not permitted to enter private or restricted areas such as classrooms, residence hall rooms, faculty and administrative offices, or any location that requires card access or is otherwise secured, unless they present a valid judicial warrant.
Only Marymount’s Office of General Counsel is authorized to evaluate the validity of a warrant and determine whether access to private spaces will be granted. If you ever encounter a situation involving law enforcement or federal agents on campus, please notify the Office of General Counsel (703-908-7703) and Campus Safety (703-284-1600) immediately.
Q: What should I do if I see immigration enforcement authorities on campus?
A: Do not obstruct or interfere with law enforcement activity in any way. Remain calm and maintain a safe distance. If you observe immigration enforcement agents on campus, immediately notify Campus Safety and the Office of General Counsel. You may document the interaction from a safe distance, but do not engage with the agents directly. Do not tip off or alert anyone who may be the subject of an enforcement action.
Q: What should I do if I am presented with a subpoena, an arrest warrant, or a search warrant?
A: Do not accept a subpoena on behalf of someone else or a University office, even if you work in that office. If you are shown an arrest or search warrant, do not attempt to interpret or challenge it yourself. Politely ask the agent to wait, and direct them to the lobby of the Administration Building. Immediately notify the Office of General Counsel and Campus Safety. University officials will review the documents and determine the appropriate course of action.
Q: What should I do if federal immigration enforcement officials proceed with an enforcement action without listening to requests to wait?
A: Even if officials do not pause or comply with requests to wait, you must not obstruct their actions. Stay calm and keep a safe distance. Contact Campus Safety and the Office of General Counsel immediately. You are permitted to observe and document the situation from a distance, but you must not interfere. Again, do not tip off others and do not attempt to block or delay the enforcement activity.
Q: What should I do if federal immigration enforcement officials attempt to take me into custody?
A: For your safety, do not resist. You have important legal rights—you have the right to remain silent and to request to speak with an attorney. Do not sign any documents unless you fully understand them and have spoken to legal counsel. You have the right to a phone call—make it to a trusted family member, friend, or lawyer. We recommend memorizing key phone numbers in advance. Marymount’s Office of General Counsel can connect students with outside legal resources as needed.
Q: I am in the U.S. as an F-1 student. Are there any basic steps I should take, such as carrying identification?
A: Yes. If you are in the U.S. as an F-1 student, there are a few important steps you should take to remain in compliance with immigration regulations:
- Report any change of address promptly. Federal law requires all international students and scholars to report a change of address in the U.S. within 10 days of moving. This can be done through Marymount ISSS and must also be updated in the SEVIS system.
- Carry proof of your immigration status. All foreign nationals age 18 and older are required by law to carry proof of their immigration status (“registration”) at all times. Your most recent I-94 is your registration. It is advisable to save a screenshot of your current I-94 (not your travel history) on your phone or carry printed copies of your I-94 and other immigration documents if you prefer not to store them digitally.
- Keep other immigration documents accessible. In addition to your I-94, we recommend keeping screenshots or printed copies of your valid I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students and scholars), as well as the ID page of your passport. These documents can help verify your lawful presence and status if ever requested by an official.
- Know your rights and resources. While carrying documents is legally required, remember that you are not obligated to provide access to your devices, and you are not required to answer questions about your immigration status without the presence of legal representation. Marymount’s Office of General Counsel is available to help you navigate any inquiries or situations that may arise and connect you with outside legal counsel when necessary. Staying organized and informed will help ensure your continued compliance and peace of mind while studying or conducting research in the United States.
Q: How will I know if my visa has been revoked?
A: If your visa is revoked, you will be notified directly by the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. embassy or consulate where you originally applied for your visa. This notification is typically sent to the email address you used when applying for your visa, so it’s important to regularly check that inbox (including your spam or junk folder). Please note this information is only sent to you—Marymount ISSS does not receive a copy of the notification. If you receive a notice or have concerns about your visa status, contact Marymount ISSS as soon as possible. Staff can guide you on your next steps and connect you with resources for support.
Q: What should I do if I receive a letter revoking my visa?
A: If you receive a visa revocation email, contact Marymount ISSS as soon as possible. An advisor will help you understand what the revocation means for your immigration status and guide you through your next steps. It’s very important not to delay—acting quickly can help protect your status and keep your options open.
Q: How will I know if my SEVIS record has been terminated?
A: If your SEVIS record is terminated, you will be contacted directly by Marymount ISSS. Our advisors review SEVIS records daily to identify any terminations made by the Department of Homeland Security. If your record is affected, we will reach out to you immediately. If you ever have questions or concerns about your SEVIS status, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Q: What should I do if Marymount ISSS notifies me that my SEVIS record has been terminated?
A: If you receive notice that your SEVIS record has been terminated, contact Marymount ISSS right away. Termination of your SEVIS record has significant implications, so it’s important to speak with an advisor as soon as possible. We’ll help you understand what happened and work with you to determine your options and next steps.
Q: What kind of support is available to students if they want legal counsel?
A: Students seeking legal advice can visit this page, which includes attorney resources under ‘Immigration.’ This is a great resource if you have questions or concerns and want to speak with a legal professional directly.
Q: How can I be vigilant about potential scams?
A: International students are often frequent targets for scams, and scammers will often try to intimidate with empty threats of arrest or deportation. If you find yourself being targeted:
- Do not answer phone calls from numbers you do not know.
- Watch out for “spoofed” numbers.
- If you receive a suspicious email, check the validity before responding or clicking links.
- Never give personal information to someone you do not know.
- Before responding to suspicious messages/calls, check with Marymount ISSS or Campus Safety.
- Let your friends know if you receive a suspicious message.
Click here for more information.
Q: I am a student, faculty, or staff member and I have questions. Where can I go for help?
A: Please contact Marymount ISSS at 703-526-6922 or . Additionally, the National Immigration Law Center is a trusted outside resource and one of the nation’s leading advocacy organizations dedicated to defending and advancing the rights of immigrants and their families.
