How early can I apply for a new Student Entry Visa if my Current Student Entry Visa in the Same Visa Status is Still Valid?

Generally, if an entry visa for student status will be valid for a traveler to return to the U.S., a new entry visa for that same status is not required. From our experience, if the current entry visa is valid for 2 or more months beyond planned return date to the U.S., then applying for a new entry visa for that same student status may not be recommended.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When an individual has their visa interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate, common practice is that a previous entry visa in that same status, even if it is still valid, will be “Cancelled Without Prejudice” by the Embassy/Consulate and cannot be used any longer to enter the U.S. Therefore, the visa applicant will need to wait until the U.S. Embassy/Consulate issues the new entry visa in order to enter the U.S. It is important for students, especially continuing students, to be aware of this risk and plan with their academic program for any delays in original schedule for return to the U.S.

For more information, please view the Visas and Travel webpage and the Obtaining a Visa webpage on the ISO website.

Please contact your ISO Advisor if you have any questions.