The travel signature is required for returning to the U.S. It is not required for leaving the U.S.
If your current travel signature will expire before you will return to the U.S., you must request an updated travel signature.
The travel signature is on page 2 of your I-20 or the front page of your DS-2019.
If it happens you have an emergency travel need and you are not able to reach out to a DSO, just go ahead and depart the U.S.
The travel signature is required for returning to the U.S. but not required at the time you depart the U.S. Then we can ship you a new document with the travel signature to you before you return to the U.S. Please be advised that you may be asked to pay the shipping fee.
However, if your travel plans do not allow enough time for us to mail you a new valid document, then you must either change your anticipated return date, or travel without a valid travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019.
If you choose to return without a valid travel signature on your I-20, the Customs and Border Protection officer at the U.S. Port of Entry will issue you an I-515 form. If not, please request Form I-515A at the immigration port of entry. This form would allow you temporary admission to the U.S. for 30 days. If you receive a Form I-515A, alert your DSO as soon as you arrive on campus. It is critically important you work with your DSO to address the Form I-515A within the 30 days given to you.
Please note that temporary admission with an I-515 is at the discretion of the CBP officer and cannot be guaranteed by KSU. On rare occasions you may be denied entry to the U.S., and you should be aware of this risk before travelling.
FAQs from the U.S. ICE ( https://www.ice.gov/sevis/travel#wcm-survey-target-id). This link will take you to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website of frequently asked travel questions