COVID-19: International Student Center Updates

In accordance with the COVID 19 guidance, students are able to keep their F-1 status by maintaining the minimum credit hours required by their level but are not required to remain in residential courses. Please see the minimum requirement for credit hours below.

• Undergraduate – 12 credit hours
• Graduate – 9 credit hours
• Doctoral – 6 credit hours

Students may be eligible for a Reduced Course Load (RCL) if they are in their final semester. Please submit your RCL request with your International Student Advisor (ISA).

Students may maintain their status from their home country if they maintain the full course load, remain a residential student, and notify our office. Please note that if you have been previously told that your SEVIS record will be terminated and submitted a termination form, it is imperative to communicate with our office so that we do not terminate your SEVIS record.

As the guidance is consistently changing surrounding COVID-19, please continue to check your email and review the website for updates. Please also check the Liberty COVID-19 page for updates on classes, student life, health and safety, and other important information surrounding COVID-19.

As of November 8, 2021, all non-citizens entering the U.S. must be fully vaccinated. Please visit the U.S. Department of State website for more information. 

If you decide to travel outside the U.S., please remember to carry all your immigration documents with you, including a valid travel signature on the second page of your I-20. Additionally, make sure you pay attention to any news regarding international travel. Any travel at this time may include many risks, including your return to the U.S.

Please visit Liberty’s COVID-19 Response website for the most updated quarantine guidelines provided by the University regarding international traveling.

In addition, we also recommend visiting the following sites to learn more information applicable to F-1 students who may consider a trip abroad:

• NAFSA Website
• COVID-19 Traveler Information

If you are graduating this semester, and want to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), you are still able to apply as long as you are inside the U.S. For more information about OPT visit our OPT website.

For the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, SEVP considers students who are working in their OPT opportunities fewer than 20 hours a week as engaged in OPT.

If you are in Lynchburg, and are experiencing symptoms, call the clinic on campus and schedule a visit with them. Make sure you have your health insurance ID and your Flames Pass with you.

United Healthcare Student Resources (UHCSR) is covering most of the testing and treatment for COVID-19 at 100% until July 14, 2022. After July 15, 2022, testing and treatment will be covered in a normal rate. Visit their FAQ website for more information about COVID-19 coverage. Please contact UHCSR for case-specific questions. For more information about your health insurance, visit the UHCSR website.

UHCSR and HealthiestYou have partnered together to provide 24/7 access to doctors.