As WSU international students, we know that the COVID-19 outbreak is very challenging. Wayne State is working hard to address your concerns and support you during these difficult times. This includes making sure you earn the credits that you registered for this term and that you can complete your degree requirements on time.

By now, you have received the email from Provost Whitfield about the suspension of face-to-face classes and the move to online instruction. Additional information for international students is listed below.

NO IMPACT OF ONLINE COURSES ON VISA STATUS
The switch to online classes for the remainder of the semester will NOT impact your visa status.The Department of Homeland Security eased these regulations and will allow international students to continue this semester’s courses online without jeopardizing their visa status.

You must remain enrolled full-time and continue making progress toward your degree. Your visa status will remain open. This temporary accommodation is in place until this health crisis ends and in-person classes resume.

OISS IS OPEN AND OPERATING
Wayne State University and the Office of International Students and Scholars are and will remain open during this transition. Our operating hours are as follows:

OISS Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Walk-in Advising Hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 am – Noon and 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm. Fridays, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm.

These hours will continue for the entire Winter 2020 term.

We are also activating virtual advising. Students who do not wish to visit the office in person can call 313-577-3422 or via email at: oissmail@wayne.edu to schedule a virtual/remote meeting.

CANCELLING OISS EVENTS
In keeping with the recommendations of the CDC for social distancing and avoiding large gatherings, all OISS events and programs have been cancelled for the winter 2020 term.

TRAVEL ISSUES
With the uncertainty around travel and possible travel disruptions and restrictions, we encourage you to avoid travel unless necessary. However, if you plan to leave the U.S., please review OISS travel information online at: https://oiss.wayne.edu/international/general-travel. You also MUST come into OISS prior to your departure to meet with an advisor.

For international students who are outside the country, please contact us to discuss your plans and support/assistance you may need to return to the U.S. and/or complete your semester remotely.

OPT FOR F-1 STUDENTS
Students on OPT are still considered F-1 students at Wayne State University. When applying for OPT you must be physically in the U.S. at the time you submit your Optional Practical Training (OPT) application. OISS will process OPT as soon as we receive your complete application. If you have not applied for OPT yet, but plan to do so, we strongly encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

For the latest on WSU’s plans including FAQs on dealing with this pandemic, please visit WSU’s COVID-19 and www.oiss.wayne.edu for the latest updates on international students related matters.

Please know that Wayne State University is committed to supporting our international student and scholar community during this health emergency. While we may not have all the answers immediately, we assure you that we are and will always be ready and available to support you, address your concerns, and ensure that you have the opportunity to complete your Wayne State degrees.

Ahmad M. Ezzeddine, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President
Educational Outreach and International Programs

Kelli E. Dixon, Ph.D.
Director, Office of Study Abroad and Global Programs and
Director, Office of International Students and Scholars