Janice Lozano
Transferring universities as an international student can be a complex process, and requirements vary depending on the country and institution. In the United States, international students must navigate the F-1 visa process and SEVIS record transfers, ensuring they maintain legal status throughout. Application deadlines, admission requirements, and transfer policies differ across universities, with some accepting transfer students at any time, while others have more specific criteria. International students should be mindful of these variations and plan their transfers accordingly, allowing ample time to meet requirements and deadlines. Additionally, factors such as English proficiency, financial considerations, and previous academic experience can influence the transfer process and should be carefully considered.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application deadlines | Deadlines may differ from those for first-year applicants |
| Application requirements | Application requirements may differ from those for first-time applicants; for example, English proficiency requirements may vary |
| Transfer policies | Transfer policies vary by school and sometimes by academic program; some schools allow transfers anytime, while others only allow transfers after 1-2 years of study |
| SEVIS record | F-1 international students must request a transfer of their SEVIS record before starting classes at the new school; the transfer release date is the date the student's SEVIS record is electronically released to the new school |
| I-20 form | Students must request a new I-20 form from the new school's DSO and register for classes within 15 days of the program start date listed on the new I-20 |
| F-1 visa | Students can use their current, unexpired F-1 visa to re-enter the U.S. as long as they follow the proper transfer procedures; if the F-1 visa expires between degree programs, students can stay in the U.S. as long as they follow the correct SEVIS transfer procedures |
| Work authorization | On-campus work authorization ends on the SEVIS transfer release date; students may be eligible for certain benefits, such as CPT, at the new school |
| Academic requirements | Academic requirements may include completion of basic Math and English courses and a minimum GPA |
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What You'll Learn
Application deadlines and requirements
For example, Harvard University accepts a small group of exceptional students each year to transfer to Harvard College from other similar liberal arts programs. Students must have completed at least one full academic year and not more than two. Harvard's application process and requirements are the same for international students, and all applicants are eligible for need-based financial aid.
Florida International University (FIU) admits transfer students on a rolling basis throughout the spring, summer, and fall terms. However, students must complete their applications by the deadlines corresponding to their intended term of entry. For instance, the last day for initial I-20s (required for students without an F1 visa) to be created for Spring 2024 was December 8, 2023. Transfer applicants must have completed basic Math and English courses and maintained at least a 2.0 GPA.
Additionally, international transfer students should be aware of the requirements and procedures related to their student visa status. F-1 students must request a transfer of their SEVIS (I-20) record from their current to their new school before starting classes at the new institution. This process maintains their legal immigration status during the transfer. The transfer release date is when the student's SEVIS record is electronically transferred to the new school, and students must continue attending classes at their current school until this date.
Furthermore, students should be mindful of reporting and enrollment deadlines. F-1 transfer students are considered to be maintaining status during the timeframe between completing one program and starting another, as long as the break does not exceed five months. Students must report to their new school within 15 days of the program start date and enroll full-time.
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English proficiency requirements
The English proficiency requirements for international students transferring to universities in the US vary by school and sometimes by academic program. Prospective students are advised to contact the international student services office of the specific institution to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.
However, some universities, such as Arizona State University (ASU), explicitly state their English proficiency requirements for international transfer students. For instance, ASU requires applicants to have their TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo English test, or Cambridge English exam scores sent directly to the institution or provide proof of completion from Global Launch. International students who attended four years of high school in the US are also required to meet English competency requirements, including four years of English composition and literature-based classes.
Additionally, English proficiency can be demonstrated through international extracurricular activities and foreign language skills, which may showcase an applicant's readiness to study internationally. Open admissions policies and strong English programs at community colleges can also make transferring to four-year institutions more attainable for international students.
It is important to note that the transfer process for international students can be complex, with various steps to maintain legal immigration status, such as choosing the appropriate SEVIS release date and obtaining the necessary paperwork, including the Form I-20 and transcripts. Seeking guidance from the designated school official (DSO) at the respective institutions is crucial to ensure a smooth transfer process.
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Academic and professional goals
The exact requirements and transfer process for international students vary by school and sometimes by academic program. Prospective international students who are not yet ready for a four-year university or need time to work on their GPA can consider starting at a community college and then transferring to a university, typically to begin their junior year. Community colleges offer smaller class sizes, lower costs, and strong English programs that can help international students attain a bachelor's degree.
When considering your academic and professional goals, it is important to keep in mind that transferring schools means applying to and enrolling in a college or university while currently attending a different college or university. It is most common for students to transfer after their first or second year of school, and you should carefully choose the school that best aligns with your academic and professional goals. All or most of the college credits you have already earned can be transferred to the new school upon enrollment, and you can pursue a new degree or continue working towards the same degree.
If you are an F-1 student, you are eligible to transfer to another school or program of study, but you must maintain your F-1 visa status. To start the process, bring written confirmation of acceptance to another Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school to your designated school official (DSO), who will work with you to choose a transfer release date. Your DSO will take responsibility for your SEVIS record on this date, and you will no longer be able to access it at your previous school. Get a new Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status,” signed by your new DSO as soon as possible, and register for classes within 15 days of the program start date listed on your new Form I-20.
Additionally, consider the specific requirements of the schools you are applying to. For example, Arizona State University (ASU) requires international transfer students to meet certain academic requirements and demonstrate proof of English proficiency. Transfer applicants with 24 or more transferable semester credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university or recognized international university are not required to submit a high school transcript for admission. Harvard University, on the other hand, accepts a small group of exceptional students each year who have completed at least one but not more than two continuous academic years in a full-time program.
To summarize, when considering your academic and professional goals, research the transfer policies and requirements of your desired schools, plan ahead, and ensure you meet all necessary academic, visa, and English proficiency requirements to achieve a smooth transition to your new institution.
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SEVIS record transfer
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) manages SEVIS, which is an online system that keeps track of data on international non-immigrant students and their dependents in the United States and their student visa status. SEVIS is used by the U.S. government to ensure that students adhere to the terms of their visas and maintain their legal status.
Step 1: Understand the Process
The SEVIS record transfer is not the same as an academic transfer. It involves transferring your SEVIS record, which includes your visa information and status, to your new school. This process allows you to maintain your legal status while switching educational institutions.
Step 2: Timing is Key
The timing of your SEVIS record transfer is essential. F-1 students are considered to be maintaining their status during the timeframe between completing one program and starting another, as long as the gap does not exceed five months. Choose an appropriate transfer release date and work with your designated school official (DSO) to ensure a smooth transition.
Step 3: Notify Your DSO
Inform your DSO about your intention to transfer schools and provide them with any required paperwork, such as your acceptance letter or contact information for your new school. DSOs are required to transfer your SEVIS record upon request and can do so through various means of communication, including phone, fax, mail, or email.
Step 4: Follow Instructions from Your New School
Once your DSO has been notified, they will initiate the transfer process. Follow any instructions provided by your new school's DSO to ensure a successful transfer. This may include providing additional documentation or completing specific procedures.
Step 5: Maintain Your Status
While your SEVIS record is being transferred, it's important to maintain your legal status. Continue attending classes at your current school until the SEVIS release date. If there is a gap of more than five months between programs, you may need to depart the United States and apply for a new F-1 visa before starting your new program.
Step 6: Register at Your New School
After the SEVIS record transfer is complete, register for classes at your new school within the specified timeframe, usually within 15 days of the program start date. Your new school will issue you a new Form I-20, confirming your enrollment and updated visa status.
Remember that the specific requirements and procedures may vary, so always consult with your designated school officials and international student advisers for personalized guidance.
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Visa requirements
International students intending to study in the United States must obtain a student visa. The most common types of student visas are F-1 and M-1. F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while M-1 visas are for those in vocational studies. The J-1 exchange visitor visa is for exchange programs that combine work and study, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants.
To obtain an F-1 or M-1 visa, students must first apply and be admitted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the United States. Once accepted, the school will issue a Form I-20, which is required for the visa application process. Students then need to apply for their visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, presenting their Form I-20 during the visa interview. Additionally, students must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and may need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on their nationality.
For the F-1 visa, students must be enrolled in an academic, language-training, or vocational program full-time. The school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, and the student must demonstrate English proficiency or be enrolled in courses to achieve proficiency. Moreover, sufficient funds must be available for the duration of the course, and students must maintain a residence abroad with no intention of relinquishing it.
Transferring to a different school on an F-1 visa requires additional steps. Students should research the process as it varies by school and program. Generally, transferring involves applying to and enrolling in a new college or university while currently attending another institution. Most college credits earned can be transferred to the new school. To initiate the transfer, students should provide the Designated School Official (DSO) with the necessary paperwork, such as an acceptance letter, and request a new I-20 form from the new school.
It is important to note that students on an F-1 visa must maintain their status and adhere to specific regulations. For example, a transfer student must typically report to the new school within 15 days of the program start date. If there is a gap between the end of classes at the previous school and the start of classes at the new school, the student may need to depart the United States until able to begin the new program and apply for a new F-1 visa.
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Frequently asked questions
The exact requirements and transfer processes vary by school and sometimes by academic program. However, some general requirements include:
- Applying months in advance
- Meeting application requirements, including academic transcripts, exam scores, and English proficiency tests
- Maintaining valid visa status and following proper transfer procedures
- Requesting a transfer of your SEVIS record and coordinating with the designated school official (DSO)
- Registering for classes at the new school within the specified timeframe
Harvard College accepts a small group of exceptional transfer students each year from similar liberal arts programs. To be eligible, students must have completed at least one but not more than two continuous academic years in a full-time program. The application process and requirements are the same for international students, and financial aid is available for all applicants regardless of nationality.
FIU offers a simple transfer process with eligibility through the 2+2 pathway. Students must have completed basic Math and English courses (usually the first 30 credits) and maintained at least a 2.0 GPA for most of their academic program. Official documents, including exam scores, must be sent directly to FIU through approved channels.
