How to Transfer to a Different School on F-1 Visa

Overview

A SEVIS transfer allows F-1 students to move their student record from one SEVP-certified school to another without losing their immigration status. This is required whenever you change schools, whether transferring to a new degree program or starting fresh at a different institution.

When Do You Need a SEVIS Transfer?

• Transferring from one university to another
• Moving from a language program to a degree program at a different school
• Changing from community college to a 4-year university
• Starting a new degree program at a different institution
• Transferring after completing a program (e.g., bachelor’s to master’s at a new school)

SEVIS Transfer Timeline

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

1. Get accepted to your new school: Apply and receive official admission from a SEVP-certified institution
2. Contact your current DSO: Inform them you intend to transfer and provide your new school’s information
3. Request SEVIS release: Your current DSO will ask for the new school’s name and SEVIS school code
4. Set a release date: Coordinate with both schools on when to release your SEVIS record
5. Current school releases record: Your DSO transfers your SEVIS record to the new school
6. New school issues I-20: Your new DSO creates your transfer I-20
7. Report to new school: Arrive and check in with your new DSO within 15 days of your program start

Transfer During Different Situations

Transferring While Classes Are in Session

• You may transfer mid-semester if both schools agree
• Coordinate carefully to avoid gaps in enrollment
• Maintain full-time enrollment until transfer is complete

Transferring After Program Completion

• You have 60 days after completing your program to transfer
• Request transfer before your 60-day grace period ends
• You cannot work during this grace period (unless on OPT)

Transferring During OPT

• Transferring schools will automatically end your OPT
• You must stop working once the transfer is complete
• Consider timing carefully if you want to maximize OPT

Required Documents

• Acceptance letter from new school
• New school’s SEVIS school code
• Current I-20 from existing school
• Valid passport
• Financial documents for new I-20 (bank statements, sponsor letter)

After the Transfer

Once your SEVIS record is transferred:

• Your old I-20 is no longer valid
• Your new school becomes responsible for your SEVIS record
• You’ll receive a new I-20 with the same SEVIS ID number
• Report to your new DSO within 15 days of your program start date

Maintaining Status During Transfer

• DO: Keep copies of all I-20s, stay in communication with both DSOs, meet all deadlines
• DON’T: Let your transfer request expire, miss your program start date, travel internationally during the transfer process

Common Questions

Do I need a new visa stamp?

Not necessarily. If your F-1 visa stamp is still valid, you can continue using it with your new I-20. However, if your visa has expired and you travel abroad, you’ll need to apply for a new visa.

Can I transfer to any school?

You can only transfer to SEVP-certified schools. Verify certification at the ICE SEVP School Search website.

What if my transfer is denied?

Transfers are rarely denied if both schools are SEVP-certified. Issues typically arise from missed deadlines or falling out of status before requesting transfer.