How to Transfer Your SEVIS Record: A Step-by-Step Guide for F-1 Students

Overview

Transferring your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record is crucial for F-1 students wishing to change from one Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution to another. This transfer ensures the maintenance of lawful F-1 status during the transition. Below is a comprehensive guide to facilitate a smooth SEVIS transfer.

Understanding SEVIS Transfer

A SEVIS transfer involves moving your SEVIS record from your current institution (transfer-out school) to your new institution (transfer-in school). This process allows you to retain your SEVIS ID and history, ensuring the continuity of your F-1 status. It’s important to note that only one school can access your SEVIS record. Therefore, coordinating the transfer is essential to maintain legal status and employment authorization.

Eligibility Criteria for SEVIS Transfer

To be eligible for a SEVIS transfer, you must:

• Maintain Valid F-1 Status: You must be in active F-1 status at your current institution.
• Receive Admission from a SEVP-Certified School: Obtain an official acceptance letter from the new institution.
• Begin New Program Timely: The new program must commence within five months of your last date of attendance or the end date of your Optional Practical Training (OPT), whichever is applicable.

Steps to Transfer Your SEVIS Record

1. Notify Your Current Institution: Inform your current school’s Designated School Official (DSO) about your intent to transfer. Please provide them with the acceptance letter from your new institution.
2. Select a Transfer Release Date: In consultation with your current DSO, choose an appropriate SEVIS release date. This data is critical as it affects your employment authorization and the ability of your new school to access your SEVIS record.
3. Complete Transfer Procedures at New Institution: Contact the DSO at your new school to understand their specific transfer-in requirements. Ensure you provide all necessary documentation promptly.
4. Enroll in the New Program: You must report to your new institution and enroll in an entire course of study in the first available term after the transfer.

Important Considerations

• Employment Authorization: Any authorized employment, including OPT, terminates on the SEVIS release date. Plan your transfer accordingly to avoid unauthorized employment.
•  
• Travel Plans: If you plan to travel outside the U.S. after your SEVIS release date and before starting at the new institution, obtain a new Form I-20 from the new school for re-entry.
• Grace Period: If you have completed your program or OPT, you have a 60-day grace period to transfer to a new institution, depart the U.S., or change your status.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. What is a SEVIS transfer?
   • A SEVIS transfer involves moving your SEVIS record from one SEVP-certified school to another, allowing you to maintain your F-1 status during the transition.
2. How do I initiate a SEVIS transfer?
   • Inform the DSO at your current school of your intent to transfer and provide an acceptance letter from your new SEVP-certified institution.
3. Can I work during the SEVIS transfer process?
   • Authorized employment ends on the SEVIS release date. You cannot work at the previous school after this date and must wait for proper authorization from the new school.
4. What happens to my OPT if I transfer to a new school?
   • OPT authorization terminates on the SEVIS release date. Ensure the transfer timing aligns with your employment plans.
5. Is there a deadline to transfer my SEVIS record after program completion?
   • You must request a SEVIS transfer within the 60-day grace period following program completion.
6. Can I travel internationally during the SEVIS transfer process?
   • Yes, but after the SEVIS release date, you will need a new Form I-20 from your new school to re-enter the U.S.
7. What is a SEVIS release date?
   • The SEVIS release date is when your SEVIS record transfers from your current school to the new one, affecting employment authorization and access to your record.
8. Do I need to pay the SEVIS fee again when transferring schools?
   • No, transferring your SEVIS record does not require repayment of the SEVIS fee.
9. Can I cancel a SEVIS transfer after the release date?
   • No, the transfer cannot be canceled once the SEVIS release date has passed.
10. What happens if I don’t enroll in the new school after a SEVIS transfer?
    • Failing to enroll in the new school can result in the termination of your SEVIS record, leading to a loss of lawful F-1 status.

For personalized guidance, always consult with the DSOs at your current and prospective institutions to ensure compliance with all regulations during the SEVIS transfer process.