Can you leave the USA on a F1 visa?

8 views

I am currently in the United States on an F-1 visa and plan to travel internationally in 2026. Given the increased visa screening, online-presence reviews, administrative processing, and possible appointment delays, is it advisable to leave the United States at this time? What documents should I carry to return, including a valid passport, F-1 visa, travel-endorsed Form I-20, proof of enrollment, and financial documents? How does the risk differ if my visa has expired, I need visa stamping, or I am currently on OPT or STEM OPT? I would also appreciate recent experiences from F-1 students who travelled abroad and successfully re-entered the United States.