The U.S. Department of Education announced on Dec. 12, 2016 that it no longer recognizes the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as an accrediting agency.

It is not requires that all SEVP-certified schools be accredited. However, ESL programs must be accredited. Further, F-1 students who would like to apply for a 24 month STEM extension OPT must use a degree from an accredited, SEVP-certified school for the basis of the extension. Finally, H-1B beneficiaries who hold a U.S. master’s degree may only be counted under the U.S. master’s degree cap if the institution granting the U.S. master’s degree is an accredited institution.

Therefore it is critical that F-1 students confirm that the institution they are attending is still accredited as it may affect your current immigration status or future immigration options.

If you need assistance with a family-based or employment-based immigration matter, please contact our office at 804-396-3412 or at info@sumnerimmigration.com to learn how we can assist. We look forward to hearing from you!