Important Reminder for International Students Transferring Schools

If you are transferring to a new school, it is critical that your SEVIS record is transferred in a timely manner. Failure to transfer your SEVIS record on time may result in your record being placed in Completed or Terminated status, which can jeopardize your F-1 status.

Once your SEVIS record has been successfully transferred, you must promptly obtain your new I-20 from the Designated School Official (DSO) at your new institution. If the I-20 is not issued and collected, it may remain in Draft status.

If an I-20 stays in Draft status for more than five (5) months, your DSO will be unable to register your SEVIS record. At that point, additional corrective steps are required to resolve the issue, which may include contacting SEVP for further guidance.

Timely action at each stage of the transfer process is essential to maintaining your lawful F-1 status.