Transferring from one US university to another as an international student is a common process, but it does require careful planning and adherence to both academic and immigration regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how it works:

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1. Research and Shortlist New Universities
- Identify the universities you wish to transfer to.
- Check their transfer policies, course equivalency, and credit transfer rules.
- Make sure they are SEVP-certified institutions (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).

2. Meet Academic Requirements
- Ensure you meet the academic and English language requirements (GPA, IELTS/TOEFL, etc.) of the new university.
- Prepare your transcripts, course syllabi, and other supporting documents.

3. Apply as a Transfer Student
- Complete the application process for transfer students at the new university.
- Submit required documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, etc.).
- Pay the application fee and meet any additional requirements.

4. Admission Offer and Acceptance
- Once you receive an admission offer, formally accept it.
- The new university will provide you with a transfer-in form to be completed by you and your current university.

5. SEVIS Record Transfer
- Notify your current university’s Designated School Official (DSO) of your intention to transfer.
- Provide your new university’s details and the transfer date.
- Your current DSO will update your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record and release it to your new university.

6. Receive New I-20 Form
- The new university will issue you a new I-20 form marked as "Transfer Pending."
- Check the details for accuracy and sign the form.

7. Maintain Your Visa Status
- You do not need to leave the US to transfer, as long as you maintain your F-1 visa status.
- You must begin your program at the new university at the next available term or within 5 months of your last attendance.

8. Report to New University
- Upon arrival, report to the new university’s international student office within 15 days of the program start date.
- The university will update your SEVIS record to "Active" status.

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Important Tips:

- Do not terminate your studies or let your F-1 status lapse during the transfer process.
- Coordinate closely with DSOs at both your current and new universities.
- Keep copies of all important documents and correspondences.
- Transferring may affect your eligibility for certain scholarships or on-campus employment—check with both institutions.

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Need Help?
Pollster Education provides expert guidance for US university transfers, including documentation, application strategy, and visa guidance. Feel free to contact us at +919324480791 or info@pollstereducation.com, or visit us at our Mumbai office for a personalized counseling session.

Would you like assistance in shortlisting new universities or understanding credit transfer?