Transferring a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record between US institutions is a common process for international students (F-1 or J-1 visa holders) who wish to change schools or academic programs within the United States. Here are the key rules and steps involved, as per US regulations and best practices:

Eligibility for SEVIS Transfer

- Maintain Status: You must be maintaining valid F-1 or J-1 student status at your current institution.
- Admission to New School: You must have an official offer of admission (I-20 or DS-2019 issued) from the new SEVP-certified institution.
- Timing: The SEVIS transfer must occur before the end of your 60-day grace period (for F-1 students), which begins after you complete your program or OPT (Optional Practical Training).

SEVIS Transfer Process

1. Inform Current School: Notify your current school’s International Student Office of your intent to transfer.
2. Obtain Acceptance from New School: Secure an acceptance letter and request the new school’s SEVIS code.
3. SEVIS Release Date: Agree with your current school on a SEVIS “release date.” On this date, your SEVIS record will be electronically transferred to the new school.
4. Receive New I-20/DS-2019: After the release date, your new school will issue a new Form I-20 or DS-2019 with the same SEVIS ID number.
5. Reporting: You must report to the new school’s International Student Office within 15 days of the program start date listed on your new I-20/DS-2019.

Important Rules and Considerations

- No Gap in Status: There should be no gap in your student status. You must begin classes at the new institution at the next available term or within 5 months of transferring out of the current school or program completion, whichever is earlier.
- Travel: If you plan to travel outside the US between schools, you must re-enter with the new I-20/DS-2019 from your transfer-in school.
- Employment Authorization: Any on-campus or off-campus work authorization (including CPT/OPT) from your previous institution does not automatically transfer and must be re-authorized by your new school.
- Dependents: SEVIS records for F-2/J-2 dependents are transferred along with the primary student.

Documentation Required

- Copy of admission/acceptance letter from the new school
- Transfer request form (each school may have its own format)
- Valid passport, visa, and previous I-20s/DS-2019s

Additional Support

Pollster Education can guide you through the SEVIS transfer process, ensure correct paperwork, communicate with both institutions, and help you maintain your visa status. If you need personalized advice, please contact us at +919324480791 or info@pollstereducation.com, or visit our Mumbai office.

Would you like specific guidance for your transfer case or help with contacting your target US university?