Summary
On April 12, 2024 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended Special Student Relief (SSR) to F-1 students from Ethiopia through December 12, 2025. The original SSR notice was set to expire on June 12, 2024.
What is Special Student Relief?
Special Student Relief (SSR) is the suspension of specific immigration regulations for F-1 students who face unexpected hardship due to a situation in their home country. SSR typically provides eligible students flexibilities related to employment and enrollment requirements. This particular notice suspends applicable on-campus and off-campus employment regulations as well as full-time enrollment requirements.
Who is eligible for the SSR extended to students from Ethiopia?
Per the DHS Notice, this extension of SSR applies to F-1 students who:
- Are citizens of Ethiopia regardless of country of birth (or individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Ethiopia);
- Are lawfully present in the United States in an F-1 nonimmigrant status on April 12, 2024;
- Are enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school;
- Are currently maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status; and
- Are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the current armed conflict and humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia.
How do I apply for SSR?
If you are interested in applying for Special Student Relief, please reach out to us through the Contact ISS form.