Janice Lozano
International students can transfer to another college or university, but the process can be complex and time-consuming. In Canada, international students must inform the government of their plans to switch schools, and may need to apply for a study permit extension. In the US, international students may need to take English proficiency tests and college admissions exams, and should contact individual universities to understand their transfer policies. Regardless of location, international students should be prepared to pay application fees, submit transcripts, and meet the admissions requirements of their desired institution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common types of transfers | Community college to a 4-year institution, 4-year institution to another 4-year institution |
| Visa status | F-1 visa status can be maintained during the transfer |
| Transfer process | Apply and enrol in a new college while attending the current college |
| Transfer credits | Most college credits can be transferred to the new school |
| Transfer fees | Tuition and fees for international students at community colleges are 50-70% lower than at universities |
| Transferring in the middle of a semester | Students must continue attending classes at the current school until the transfer release date |
| Transfer release date | The date the student's SEVIS record is transferred to the new school |
| SEVP-certified school | A DSO must transfer the SEVIS records for any F-1 student accepted at another SEVP-certified school |
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What You'll Learn
F-1 visa status
International students on an F-1 visa can transfer to another US college or university, but the process is different from that of domestic students. Most US colleges and universities accept international transfer students, and usually, all or most of the college credits earned can be transferred to the new school. However, it is important to note that applying as an international transfer student may affect eligibility for financial aid. Some colleges offer scholarships only to first-year international applicants and not transfer applicants, while others offer scholarships specifically to international transfer students.
To transfer to another US college or university on an F-1 visa, students must follow these steps:
- Apply to new colleges and/or universities in the US as a transfer international student.
- Ask the Designated School Official (DSO) at the International Student Services Office (ISSO) of the current school to transfer the SEVIS record to the new school.
- Provide the DSO with any required paperwork, such as an acceptance letter or contact information for the new school.
- Request a new I-20 form from the new school's DSO.
- Register for classes at the new school within 15 days of the program start date listed on the new I-20 form.
It is important to note that some universities accept international graduate transfer students on a case-by-case basis, and it is less likely that all credits will transfer to the new graduate program due to the specialised nature of graduate coursework. Additionally, F-1 students must notify the DSO at their current school of their request to transfer to another school certified by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This notification should include the transfer release date, which is important for maintaining visa status.
Overall, while it is possible for international students on an F-1 visa to transfer to another US college or university, the process requires careful research and consideration of the specific requirements and implications.
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SEVP-certified schools
International students in the US on an F-1 visa can transfer to another college or university. This is a different process from a domestic student transfer, so it is important to do your research before applying to new schools.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) collects, maintains, and provides information so that only legitimate foreign students or exchange visitors gain entry to the United States. SEVP also ensures that the institutions accepting nonimmigrant students are certified and follow the federal rules and regulations that govern them. SEVP manages the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a web-based information system that maintains and allows monitoring of SEVP-certified schools, F-1 and M-1 nonimmigrant students and their dependents, and exchange visitor program sponsors.
For any F-1 transfer, the student must first provide written verification of acceptance at another SEVP-certified school. The options depend on the program start date and when the student enters (or plans to enter) the United States. If the student has received acceptance by another SEVP-certified school with a program start date fewer than 30 days before or after the student’s initial admission into the United States, the student's SEVIS record must be transferred.
The transfer process involves releasing a student's record in SEVIS from one SEVP-certified school to another. The transfer-out school holds the student record and starts the transfer process after the student notifies the designated school official (DSO) of their wish to transfer. The transfer-in school then receives the SEVIS record upon the transfer release date. The student must maintain F-1 status at the transfer-out school by pursuing a full course of study or engaging in post-completion optional practical training (OPT) until the transfer release date. The DSO at the transfer-in school will be able to create a Form I-20 issued for the reason of transfer. Once a transfer student registers, the student should ask for a Form I-20 that shows the status as a continuing student and that the transfer is approved. On the transfer release date, the responsibility for the student’s SEVIS record transfers to the DSO at the transfer-in school, who can then create a new Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status.”
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Transferring credits
International students intending to transfer to another college or university in the US should be aware that the process is different from that of domestic students. It is important to do your research and plan ahead, as the transfer of credits may vary depending on the institutions involved.
Most US colleges and universities accept international transfer students, and it is common for students to transfer after their first or second year. This allows students to pursue a new degree or continue the same degree they were working towards at their previous institution.
When transferring, it is essential to maintain legal immigration status and follow instructions from the Designated School Official (DSO) at both the transfer-out and transfer-in schools. The DSO is responsible for transferring the student's SEVIS record (I-20) to the new school. Students should also be mindful of the transfer release date, which is when the student's record is electronically released to the new school, and they may need to continue attending classes at the transfer-out school until this date.
In terms of credit transfer, most college credits earned at the previous institution can be transferred to the new school upon enrollment. However, it is important to note that some credits may or may not be accepted by the new institution, and the calculation of the Grade Point Average (GPA) may differ. Therefore, it is recommended that students contact the specific universities to understand their transfer policies and plan their course of study accordingly.
One common type of transfer is from a community college to a four-year institution, which can be a strategic move for international students. Community colleges often have lower costs, more open admissions policies, and strong English programs, making them a good option for students who need to improve their GPA or explore different subjects before committing to a four-year program. Most credits earned at a community college are transferable to a four-year institution, allowing students to obtain an associate degree and a bachelor's degree in four years at a lower cost.
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Community college to a 4-year institution
International students can transfer from a community college to a four-year institution, although the process may be more complex than transferring domestically. International students should be aware of the extra steps and precautions involved in transferring as an international student.
Firstly, it is important to consider your reasons for transferring and your academic and professional goals. Many community colleges are more affordable than four-year institutions and may accept students with lower GPAs and test scores. However, it is worth noting that transferring to a four-year institution can provide benefits such as exposure to a new culture, the ability to study programs that might not be available in your home country, and the potential for language acquisition.
Most US colleges and universities accept international transfer students, and many community college credits are transferable to four-year institutions. It is important to note that different institutions have varied transfer requirements, and some universities have partnerships with local community colleges to make transferring easier. It is recommended that you research whether your desired university has programs designed specifically for transfer students. Official transcripts, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and personal statements may be required for university admission.
Additionally, you will need to consider tuition costs, the cost of living, health insurance, and potential out-of-state or international student fees. Some countries do not permit international students to work while studying, so this is another factor to keep in mind. The application process will also depend on the country and university you are applying to. For example, in the UK, most applications go through UCAS, while in the US, Common App is popular but not used by all universities.
Lastly, visa and immigration requirements will vary by country. Acquiring a student visa can be a long process, so it is recommended to start early.
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Maintaining legal immigration status
International students in the US on an F-1 visa can maintain their legal immigration status while transferring to another college by following the necessary procedures. Here are some key points to ensure maintenance of legal immigration status:
Maintain F-1 Status:
To maintain their legal status, F-1 students must continue pursuing a full course of study or be engaged in post-completion practical training. They must also abide by the regulations governing F-1 students, as outlined by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Notify the Designated School Official (DSO):
F-1 students must notify the DSO at their current school of their intention to transfer to another SEVP-certified school. This notification is crucial, as it ensures that the student's SEVIS record is properly transferred to the new school.
Timing of Transfer:
Timing is essential to maintain legal status. Students can initiate a transfer during the 60-day grace period following the completion of their studies, as they are considered to be maintaining status during this time. If transferring in the middle of a semester, students must continue attending classes at their current school until the SEVIS release date.
Academic Progress:
Students must ensure they are making academic progress. Multiple transfer requests without academic advancement could result in a violation of their status.
Reinstatement:
If a student's record was in Terminated status at the time of transfer, they must apply for reinstatement with USCIS. The student must continue to maintain a full course of study and follow F-1 student regulations while USCIS processes the reinstatement. If USCIS denies the application, the student must leave the US immediately to avoid removal proceedings.
By following these guidelines and working closely with the DSOs at both their current and new schools, international students can successfully maintain their legal immigration status while transferring to another college in the US.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can transfer to another college. However, there are some important steps to take.
The requirements to transfer as an international student vary depending on the country and institution. In general, you must have spent at least one year in a post-secondary institution, have a valid study permit, and meet the admissions requirements of the new institution. It is recommended to contact the admissions office of your desired institution to clarify any specific requirements.
The documents needed to transfer may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English language proficiency. A valid study permit or visa may also be required. It is important to prepare all the necessary documents and plan ahead to ensure a smooth transfer process.
The process for transferring as an international student typically involves researching and identifying potential institutions, contacting their admissions offices, submitting your application, and awaiting the credit transfer evaluation. Once you have received an offer of admission, you may need to fulfil any specified conditions, such as extending your study permit or visa.
