Applying for a U.S. Visa in Canada or Mexico as a Third-Country National

Before leaving the U.S., prepare the following documents. On your return flight to the U.S., make sure these documents are in your carry-on luggage. 

Valid passport (must be valid at least 6 months into the future from your return date)
Valid U.S. visa in the passport (except citizens of Canada and Bermuda)
Valid form I-20 (F-1) / DS-2019 (J-1) with ISSA travel signature. Request a travel signature in iStart, under Other Requests, well in advance of travel. 

Students on OPT or STEM OPT: In addition to the above documents, you will need:  

Employment letter 
EAD card  

Note: Re-entry is not permitted during the grace period at the end of F-1 or J-1 status. 

Recommended (Not Required) Documents for Current Students 

Transcripts  
Enrollment verification or proof of registration for the next semester  
Current proof of financial support 

Additional information on returning to the U.S. is available at Department of Homeland Security FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) under F Non-Immigrants: Entry and Exit 

Applying for a U.S. Visa in Canada or Mexico as a Third-Country National

If you apply for a U.S. visa in Canada, Mexico, or another country that is not your home country, please check in with the U.S. consulate in that country first to ensure that your visa request can be processed there. 

If you choose to apply for a U.S. visa in Canada or Mexico to regain your immigration status: 

Wait until the visa is issued (automatic visa revalidation is not applicable in this situation).  
If the visa is denied, be prepared to return to your home country directly from Canada or Mexico.