out of status does not mean the guys will be deported. the law says: a nonimmigrant who remains "out of status" for at least 180 days is deportable and will be unable to re-enter the United States for 3 years. is there any chance of reinstatement? the USCIS does grant reinstatement on a case by case basis. it all depends on the immigration inspector when you submit for reinstatement. i think the most important criteria for reinstatement is that you have to prove you are genuine students and will complete a degree. the worst cases scenario (in case of reinstatement) may be you might not be able to leave USA and come back (on F-1 visa). on this website - http://www.ice.gov/sevis/sevisfactsheet.htm it does say that "Non-immigrant students or exchange visitors who fall out of status for reasons beyond their control may be eligible to apply for a reinstatement of status. The student or exchange visitor must work with the school or program official to determine if reinstatement is an option." can you guys contact another school who will accept you and apply for reinstatement? this might be something to consider. maybe that houston school from a thread above.