Why reinstatement? Reinstatement is done when you are out of status. As long as you maintain f1 status, as stated in guidelines you need no reinstatement because your visa is expired. My visa expired on 2008 but I am still on status because I am enrolled at college and hold a valid i20 and never had to do any reinstatement.
My query, are you in good academic standing so far? Have you always registered for 12 credit hours every fall and spring (if undergraduate)? Have you ever been suspended from college?
If you answer yes to all except the last one, I don't clearly see any reasons for reinstatement.
The only reason you need to have a current visa is to travel outside the country.
Also please elaborate your situAtion so that other users can also give you suggestions.
