Ibrahim Gardner
International students in the United States on an F-1 visa must follow specific procedures to transfer to another school. The process involves transferring their SEVIS (I-20) record, which is separate from an academic transfer. Students must request their current school to transfer their SEVIS record to the new school before commencing full-time studies there. This process ensures the student's original SEVIS ID and history are maintained. The transfer-in school then creates a new Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status, which the student must obtain as soon as possible. Students should also be mindful of maintaining their F-1 status and coordinating travel plans with their international student adviser.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student type | F-1 student |
| Transfer type | SEVIS transfer |
| Transfer procedure | Transferring students must contact the new DSO within 15 days of the program start date and register for classes. |
| Form requirements | Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" |
| Additional requirements | Students must provide proof of eligibility and maintenance of F-1 status, such as past enrollment, CPT, OPT, or reduced course loads. |
| Transfer timing | Students must request a transfer before beginning classes at the new school. |
| Travel considerations | Students should discuss travel plans with their international student adviser to coordinate a "transfer out" date and new I-20 issuance. |
| Visa implications | Students can use their current, unexpired F-1 visa to re-enter the U.S., even if it has the previous school name printed on it. |
| OPT considerations | OPT authorization ends on the "transfer out" date, so students planning to work between programs should coordinate with their international student advisers to choose an appropriate date. |
| Record maintenance | Students are expected to keep all Forms I-20 issued during their academic career. |
| Reinstatement | If a student's record was terminated, the transfer-in DSO must create a Reinstatement Request I-20, and the student must apply for reinstatement with USCIS. |
| International students | International students already in the U.S. can submit a Transfer I-20 request after official admission to a full-time program. |
| E-form processing time | E-form processing may take up to 15 business days. |
| Transfer release date | The transfer release date is when the responsibility for the student's SEVIS record transfers to the DSO at the new school. |
| SEVIS record access | Once the transfer is complete, the previous school will no longer have access to the student's SEVIS record. |
| New Form I-20 | The new DSO will create a new Form I-20, which the student should obtain as soon as possible to maintain their status. |
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What You'll Learn
Requesting a transfer-in I-20
To request a transfer-in I-20, several steps need to be followed. Firstly, the transferring student must contact the new Designated School Official (DSO) within 15 days of the program start date and register for classes. The student must ensure that the DSO at the new school has all the information required to update the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record, including any change of address.
The next step is to request a transfer of the SEVIS record from the current institution to the new school. This process, called a SEVIS transfer, is different from an academic transfer. The student must work with the DSO at their current school's international office to complete the transfer-out request. The DSO at the current school will set a transfer release date for the SEVIS record, which is when the record will be transferred to the new school.
After the transfer release date, the student should contact the DSO at the new school to create a Form I-20 for the reason of transfer. The student should ask for a Form I-20 that shows their status as a continuing student and that the transfer has been approved. The student must also report to the new school within 15 days of the program start date.
It is important to note that the student must obtain a new valid Form I-20 as soon as possible, as the Form I-20 from their previous school will no longer be valid. The new Form I-20 will have the student's new program start date. Additionally, if the student's record was in Terminated status at the time of the transfer, the DSO at the new school must create a Reinstatement Request I-20, and the student must apply for reinstatement with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Overall, requesting a transfer-in I-20 involves coordinating with the DSOs at both the current and new schools, updating the SEVIS record, and obtaining a new Form I-20 with the updated program start date.
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Getting a new Form I-20
Understanding Form I-20 and Its Importance:
Form I-20, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," is a vital document for international students in the United States. It certifies that you have been admitted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school and provides information about your student status and program details. This form is essential for obtaining and maintaining your student visa (F or M visa) and should be kept safe throughout your studies.
Steps to Obtain a New Form I-20:
- Notify the Designated School Official (DSO): Before starting the transfer process, notify the DSO at your current school, known as the "transfer-out school," about your intention to transfer. The DSO will initiate the transfer process by releasing your student record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to the new school.
- Contact the New School's DSO: Within 15 days of the program start date at your new school, contact the DSO at the "transfer-in school" and provide them with any necessary information to update your SEVIS record. This includes informing them of any change of address.
- Register for Classes: Enroll in classes at your new school, and then request a new Form I-20 from the DSO. This form will indicate your status as a continuing student and that your transfer has been approved.
- Complete the Transfer Process: Work closely with the DSO at your new school to ensure that your SEVIS record is correctly transferred. The transfer process involves updating your personal and program information, as well as financial information, in the SEVIS system.
- Obtain the New Form I-20: Once the transfer process is complete and your SEVIS record is updated, the DSO at your new school will issue you a new Form I-20. This document will reflect your new program start date and any changes to your student status.
- Maintain Compliance: Remember to maintain compliance with the regulations governing F-1 students, including maintaining a full course of study. Failure to comply may result in denial of reinstatement and the need to leave the United States immediately.
Additional Considerations:
- Timing: It is important to obtain your new Form I-20 as quickly as possible. The transfer-in school must create the new Form I-20 within 60 days.
- Travel Plans: Discuss your travel plans with your international student advisor to coordinate an appropriate "transfer out" date and new I-20 issuance. You can use your current unexpired F-1 visa to re-enter the U.S., even if it has your previous school's name printed on it, as long as you have followed the proper transfer procedures.
- Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements for obtaining an I-20, including completing any necessary foreign credential evaluations and providing the required financial documents.
- Processing Time: Keep in mind that processing e-forms and issuing the I-20 may take up to 15 business days, so submit your requests as early as possible to allow ample time for processing.
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Maintaining F-1 status
Attendance and Academic Progress:
F-1 students must attend all their classes and maintain normal academic progress. If students experience academic difficulties, they should immediately speak with their Designated School Official (DSO). Maintaining F-1 status requires full-time enrollment each academic term, except during designated vacation periods.
Full Course of Study:
Students are required to register for and complete a full course of study each term, unless there are exceptional circumstances. In such cases, students must contact their DSO immediately and may be eligible for a reduced course load.
Valid Passport and I-20:
International students must ensure their passport remains valid at all times, with a minimum validity of six months into the future when returning to the U.S. from abroad. It is the student's responsibility to renew their passport through their embassy. Additionally, students should maintain a valid I-20 and keep all previous versions for their records.
Transfer Procedures:
When transferring to a new school, students must follow proper transfer procedures to maintain their F-1 status. This includes requesting a transfer of their SEVIS (I-20) record to the new school and obtaining a new I-20. The new I-20 will have the student's new program start date, and it should be obtained as quickly as possible.
Employment:
F-1 students may work on-campus part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the school year and full-time during school vacations. Off-campus employment is generally not permitted during the first academic year, and authorization may be required for off-campus work after the first year.
Compliance with Regulations:
It is the student's responsibility to comply with immigration regulations and maintain lawful status. This includes following the regulations associated with the purpose of their F-1 visa, such as enrolling in traditional academic programs.
By adhering to these guidelines, international students can effectively maintain their F-1 status while studying in the United States. For specific questions or concerns, students should consult their DSO or international student advisor.
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Transferring SEVIS records
Step 1: Notify the Designated School Official (DSO)
Before initiating the transfer, students must notify the DSO at their current school (the transfer-out school) of their intention to transfer. It is recommended to provide the DSO with written confirmation of acceptance to the new school and a written request/permission to begin the transfer process.
Step 2: Comply with Transfer Requirements
To be eligible for a SEVIS transfer, students must meet certain requirements. F-1 students must maintain their F-1 status by pursuing a full course of study or engaging in post-completion optional practical training (OPT) until the transfer release date. Additionally, students must be accepted by another SEVP-certified school.
Step 3: Provide Necessary Information
Students should provide the DSO at the transfer-out school with relevant information, including the SEVIS school code for the new school (transfer-in school) and contact information for the new school's DSO. The DSO will need this information to initiate the transfer process.
Step 4: Transfer-out School Releases the Record
Once the DSO at the transfer-out school has received all the necessary information and confirmed the student's eligibility, they will release the student's SEVIS record to the transfer-in school. The transfer release date is when the student's record is deactivated from the transfer-out school and becomes available at the transfer-in school.
Step 5: Update and Activate the Record at the Transfer-in School
Upon receiving the student's record, the DSO at the transfer-in school will update and activate the student's information in the SEVIS system. They may create a Draft Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," and enter the student's new program start date. The DSO must register the student and set the record into Active status within 30 days of the program start date.
Step 6: Receive a New Form I-20
After the transfer is complete, the student should receive a new Form I-20 from the transfer-in school. This document confirms the student's continuing status and the approval of the transfer. The new Form I-20 will have the student's new program start date and replaces the previous Form I-20 from the transfer-out school.
It is important to note that students transferring their SEVIS records may retain certain benefits, such as CPT eligibility, at their new school. Additionally, if a student's F-1 visa expires between degree programs, they can remain in the U.S. as long as they follow the correct SEVIS transfer procedures. However, if they travel internationally, they must apply for a new F-1 visa.
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Submitting required documents
To submit the required documents for an I-20 transfer as an international student, there are several steps and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that you are eligible for an I-20 transfer. This typically applies to F-1 students who are transferring from one school to another, SEVP-certified in the case of F-1 students. Check with your designated school official (DSO) to understand the specific requirements and procedures for your transfer.
Next, gather the necessary documents. You will need to submit a Transfer I-20 request, which may include providing proof of acceptance to the new school, such as a confirmation email or letter. Additionally, you may be required to submit financial documents, such as a sponsor letter or affidavit of support if your sponsor is a non-blood relative. Ensure that all documents are in digital format, such as PDF or JPEG. If you are submitting financial documents in a currency other than US Dollars, provide a currency conversion from a reputable source.
It is important to initiate the transfer process as early as possible. Contact the new school's International Admissions office or International Office to arrange the transfer of your I-20 and understand their specific requirements and timelines. They will guide you through the process of receiving your new I-20, which confirms your transfer approval and continuing student status.
Keep in mind that your previous school's DSO will need to release your SEVIS record to the new school, allowing them to create a new Form I-20. This process may take up to 15 business days, and you should maintain your student status during this time. Additionally, if your student record was in Terminated status at the time of transfer, the new school's DSO must first create a Reinstatement Request I-20, and you will need to apply for reinstatement with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Throughout the process, maintain open communication with the DSOs at both your current and new schools. They will help ensure that all necessary information is transferred accurately and that your SEVIS record is updated accordingly. Remember that you should also keep all Forms I-20 issued during your academic career, as they contain important information about your student status.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to request that your current school transfers or releases your SEVIS record (I-20) to your new school.
Once your transfer release date arrives, the Designated School Official (DSO) at your new school will create a new Form I-20. It is important to get a new Form I-20 as quickly as possible.
You must register for classes and contact your new DSO within 15 days of the program start date listed on your new Form I-20.
Yes, it is important to discuss your travel plans with your international student adviser to coordinate an appropriate "transfer out" date. Additionally, ensure that you have followed the F-1 transfer regulations and other relevant guidelines.
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