News

Immigration Impacts From Fall Decision on Undergraduate Instruction and Activities

The following message went to incoming international undergraduate students who were issued or had requested an I-20 for fall 2020.

Dear JHU International Class of 2024:

Last evening, the university sent you an announcement of the change to all-online courses and co-curricular activities for undergraduates this fall, and we can only imagine how disappointing this news must be for you. The decision was made after consultation with Johns Hopkins’ world-renowned experts in public health and medicine in consideration of the worrisome rise in COVID-19 infections throughout the United States and in Maryland. Johns Hopkins has always committed to putting the health and safety of its students, faculty, staff, and Baltimore neighbors first, and despite considering many options, university leaders concluded that bringing undergraduates back to campus this fall posed an unacceptable risk.

We are deeply saddened that, under the latest guidance from the federal government about international student visas, this decision means that those of you who are not already in the country in F-1 status will not be able to come to the United States this fall on an F-1 visa.

We know that these circumstances pose extra challenges for many of you, particularly those who must contend with unreliable or censored internet access or who live in time zones that make taking place in synchronous activities burdensome. You remain at the forefront of our thoughts, and Johns Hopkins will continue to advocate on your behalf. We are committed to serving you and keeping you apprised of the immigration impacts to your personal situation. Please visit our guidance and FAQ for information on next steps you may take now.

Also, if you experience hardships due to the university decision, please be sure to complete the Resource Support Application sent to you by Student Affairs.

We look forward to welcoming you in the U.S. as soon as the COVID-19 pandemic environment in the U.S. and government guidance for spring 2021 and beyond allow. As always, please direct your questions to [email protected] or 667-208-7001.

Sincerely,

The Office of International Services