For international students studying in the United States on an F-1 visa, transferring to a different university can be a strategic decision for academic, personal, or professional reasons. Whether you are seeking a program better aligned with your career goals, a university with more resources, or a location that better suits your lifestyle, transferring requires careful planning to maintain your legal F-1 status. Understanding the transfer process, SEVIS requirements, and timing considerations is essential to avoid interruptions in your studies or visa complications. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps international students must take to transfer universities while on an F-1 visa.
Understanding the F-1 Visa and Transfer Requirements
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to study full-time at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution in the U.S. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) tracks the status of F-1 visa holders, including school enrollment, program changes, and transfers.
When transferring to a new university, you must ensure that your SEVIS record is transferred correctly, that you maintain full-time enrollment, and that your new I-20 form is issued in a timely manner. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in a loss of F-1 status and potential complications for future visa applications.
For official guidance, refer to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVIS Student Guide: SEVP Student Transfer Guidance.
When Can You Transfer Schools on an F-1 Visa?
You are eligible to transfer to a different SEVP-certified school if you:
- Have maintained F-1 status: You must be enrolled full-time and not have violated the terms of your visa.
- Have a valid SEVIS record: Your current school must be able to release your SEVIS record to the new school.
- Are transferring to another SEVP-certified institution: The new school must be authorized to issue I-20 forms for F-1 students.
Transfers are typically completed between programs or academic terms. The exact timing depends on whether you are transferring after completing a degree, mid-program, or during optional practical training (OPT).
Step 1: Research and Apply to the New University
Before initiating the transfer, research potential universities carefully. Consider:
- Program offerings and majors
- Accreditation and SEVP certification status
- Transfer credit policies
- Location, tuition, and financial requirements
Once you select a target university, submit an application for admission as a transfer student. Ensure that you provide:
- Academic transcripts from your current institution
- Test scores (if required)
- Proof of financial support
- English language proficiency documents, if applicable
It is crucial to be accepted by the new institution before your current SEVIS record can be released.
Step 2: Notify Your Current School
Once you have been accepted, inform your current Designated School Official (DSO) of your intent to transfer. The DSO will:
- Verify that you are in good standing and maintaining F-1 status
- Determine your transfer release date in SEVIS
- Provide instructions on the transfer process and documentation needed
The transfer release date is significant because it marks the day your SEVIS record becomes available to the new institution. You cannot start classes at the new university before this date.
Step 3: Obtain a Transfer Release from SEVIS
Your current school’s DSO will initiate the transfer in SEVIS by entering the transfer release date and the new school’s SEVIS code. Key points to understand:
- The release date can be set up to 60 days in advance of your last day at the current school.
- Once the release date is reached, your SEVIS record is automatically transferred to the new school.
- Your new school’s DSO will then issue a new Form I-20 for enrollment.
During this period, you remain in valid F-1 status but cannot work or enroll in classes at the new school until your SEVIS record is active there.
Step 4: Receive a New Form I-20
After the SEVIS record is transferred, your new university will issue a new Form I-20. This document is essential for:
- Maintaining legal F-1 status
- Registering for classes at the new school
- Applying for OPT, STEM OPT, or other work authorizations in the future
Ensure the new I-20 lists your correct program, major, and expected completion date. Keep a copy for your records and use it for any travel or immigration-related purposes.
Step 5: Update Your Visa and Travel Plans
If you plan to travel outside the U.S. before or after the transfer, your visa may need to be checked:
- Your F-1 visa remains valid if it has not expired.
- You must carry the new I-20 when re-entering the U.S.
- Check that your SEVIS ID matches the current active I-20 issued by your new school
If your F-1 visa has expired, you must apply for a new F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate abroad before re-entry.
Step 6: Enroll and Maintain Full-Time Status
Once transferred, you must:
- Register for classes at the new school within the timeframe specified by the university
- Maintain full-time enrollment as required for F-1 status
- Keep your address and contact information updated in SEVIS
Maintaining full-time status is crucial. Any gaps or violations can result in the termination of F-1 status, which can have long-term immigration consequences.
Special Considerations
Transfer During Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Students on OPT can transfer SEVIS records, but there are additional considerations:
- OPT is tied to your previous program; transferring may affect eligibility
- You cannot start a new program while on post-completion OPT unless authorized
- Consult your DSO for guidance before transferring during OPT
Changing Degree Levels
Transferring from one degree level to another (e.g., bachelor’s to master’s) requires careful planning:
- Ensure the new program qualifies for a new F-1 program start date
- Obtain a new I-20 reflecting the new level
- Understand that OPT eligibility will reset based on the new degree level
Financial Considerations
Your new university may require proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for visa compliance. Ensure you provide:
- Bank statements
- Financial sponsorship letters
- Scholarship or assistantship letters
Failure to provide proof can delay the transfer process and visa eligibility.
Travel Considerations
Avoid traveling outside the U.S. during the transfer unless necessary. If travel is required:
- Carry the new I-20 and old I-20 for reference
- Confirm your SEVIS record has been released and activated by the new school
- Ensure your F-1 visa remains valid for re-entry
Timeline for a Smooth Transfer
- 2-3 months before transfer: Research universities and submit transfer applications
- 1-2 months before transfer: Obtain acceptance and notify your current DSO
- Transfer release date: Current school releases SEVIS record to new school
- Immediately after release: Receive new I-20 and complete enrollment
- First day of classes at new school: Begin full-time enrollment
Early preparation helps avoid status gaps and ensures continuous compliance with F-1 regulations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying notification to your current DSO
- Assuming your SEVIS record automatically transfers without formal request
- Failing to maintain full-time enrollment
- Traveling without a valid I-20 or visa during the transfer period
- Not updating address and contact details with the new school
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a seamless transfer and continuous F-1 status.
Seeking Assistance
- DSO support: Both your current and new school’s DSOs are your primary contacts for transfer guidance.
- International student office: Provides guidance on documentation, enrollment, and financial matters.
- Legal or immigration advice: Consider consulting an immigration attorney if your situation involves OPT, change of degree level, or visa expiration issues.
Conclusion
Transferring to a different university while on an F-1 visa in the U.S. is entirely possible, but it requires careful adherence to SEVIS, visa, and enrollment rules. By understanding the transfer process, maintaining full-time enrollment, coordinating with DSOs at both institutions, and ensuring proper documentation, international students can move seamlessly between universities without jeopardizing their visa status. Planning ahead, communicating proactively, and following official guidelines ensure a smooth transition and continued progress toward academic and professional goals in the United States.