Current F-1 Visa Students

Requirements for Re-entry to the United States

Information for Current Students

International students are eligible to travel internationally while you are on academic break or during the Summer. We are here to help you prepare before you make your travel plans. Please make an appointment with a Designated School Official (DSO) at the Office of International Students Services at least three weeks prior to your travel.

Required Documents for Re-entry to the United States

  1. Valid F-1 visa in passport (except students from Canada)
  2. Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the re-entry to the United States)
  3. I-20 with a valid travel signature from the Designated School Official (DSO) at the Office of International Student Services.

Recommended Supporting Documents

  1. Financial support documents (proof of funding)
  2. Cerritos College acceptance letter 
  3. Paper receipt of Form I-901: SEVIS fee payment
  4. Copy of Cerritos College transcript and/or proof of course registration 
  5. Contact information for the Office of International Student Services:
    Office of International Student Services
    Santa Barbara Building
    11110 Alondra Blvd.
    Norwalk, CA 90650
    Phone: +1(562) 860-2451 ext. 2133
    Email: oiss@cerritos.edu

Information for F-1 students on Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Required documents for Re-entry to the United States

  1. Valid F-1 student visa in passport (except students from Canada)
  2. Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the re-entry to the United States)
  3. OPT I-20 with a valid travel signature from the Designated School Official.
  4. Valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  5. Proof of current employment or offer letter.

 For more details on traveling during OPT, please visit the Office of International Student Services.

Emergency Contact Information During Cerritos College Academic Break

  • Emergency at U.S. Port of Entry: Cerritos College Campus Police at (562) 402-3674. Please explain your situation to the respondent and they will transfer your call to the appropriate person to assist you.
  • Office of International Student Services email will be checked periodically during academic breaks. Please note that only inquires requiring immediate attention will receive a response during office closures.