How to transfer universities in the USA on an F-1 visa

Transferring universities in the USA while on an F-1 student visa can feel overwhelming, especially with strict government regulations and tight deadlines. However, understanding the SEVIS transfer process and maintaining your visa status is essential for a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide explains how to transfer universities in the USA on an F-1 visa, covering key steps such as SEVIS release dates, obtaining a new I-20, reporting requirements, travel considerations, and the impact on Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

If you're an international student currently studying in the USA and considering a university transfer, this article will help you navigate the process confidently and avoid common pitfalls.

Understanding the F-1 university transfer process in the USA

The F-1 visa is tied to your specific school’s Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record. When you transfer to a new university, your SEVIS record must be transferred from your current school to the new institution. This is called a SEVIS transfer.

Key terms to know:

• SEVIS release date: The date your current school releases your SEVIS record to the new school.
• New I-20: Your new university will issue a Form I-20 after receiving your SEVIS record.
• Transfer window: The 15 days from the program start date on your new I-20, within which you must contact your new school's DSO to keep your F-1 status.

Your current university’s international student office plays a crucial role in initiating the transfer by setting your SEVIS release date and communicating with the new school.

Step 1: Confirm eligibility and admission to the new university

Before initiating any transfer steps, you must:

• Apply and be formally admitted to the new university.
• Confirm that the new university is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and issues Form I-20s.
• Check that the new program meets your academic and career goals.

It is important to research and compare universities carefully. You can use tools like our University check and Compare pages to evaluate options based on costs, programs, and credibility.

Step 2: Inform your current university and request SEVIS transfer

Once admitted to the new university, notify your current school’s international student office of your intent to transfer. You will typically need to:

• Provide the new school’s SEVIS school code.
• Submit a transfer release form or written request as required.
• Confirm your intended transfer release date.

Your current school (the one you are leaving) sets the SEVIS release date, usually agreed with you. It does not have to be the last day of your term: it can be the date you expect to transfer. This date is crucial because it marks when your SEVIS record becomes available to the new university.

Step 3: Understand and meet SEVIS transfer timing and reporting deadlines

The SEVIS transfer process has strict timing rules to maintain your F-1 status:

• Your current school releases your SEVIS record on the agreed release date.
• Your new school must issue your new I-20 form after receiving your SEVIS record.
• You must contact the designated school official (DSO) at your new school within 15 days of the program start date on your new Form I-20 (Study in the States). The 15 days run from that start date, not from the SEVIS release date.
• Your classes at the new school must start at its next available term, and within 5 months of the date you transfer out or finish your current program, whichever is earlier.

Failing to report within this window can result in a loss of F-1 status.

Note (24 September 2026): a DHS rule that took effect on 15 September 2026 would stop most students transferring during their first academic year. NAFSA, a party to the lawsuit against it, reports that a federal court granted nationwide preliminary relief blocking the rule on 14 September 2026, while the case continues. Ask your DSO which rules apply before you plan a first-year transfer. It is important to stay in close contact with both schools’ international offices to confirm dates and paperwork.

Step 4: Receive your new I-20 and complete enrollment

After your SEVIS record is transferred, the new university will send you a new Form I-20. Review this document carefully to ensure your personal information, program dates, and financial details are correct.

You must:

• Sign and keep the new I-20.
• Complete any required enrollment or orientation procedures at the new school.
• Maintain full-time enrollment as required by F-1 visa regulations.

If you plan to travel outside the USA during the transfer, be aware that you will need a valid travel signature on your new I-20 for re-entry.

Step 5: Travel considerations during the transfer process

Traveling internationally while transferring can complicate your F-1 status:

• If you leave the USA after your SEVIS record is transferred and before you report to the new school, you must carry your new I-20 when returning.
• A valid F-1 visa stamp is required for re-entry (unless you are from a visa-exempt country).
• If your visa has expired, you will need to apply for a new visa stamp at a U.S. consulate abroad before returning.
• Travel during the transfer period may delay your start date or cause issues if paperwork is not complete.

It’s best to avoid travel during the transfer process unless absolutely necessary and to consult your international student advisors at both schools.

Step 6: Understand the impact on OPT and CPT

If you have applied for or are planning to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), transferring universities can affect your eligibility:

• OPT: You must complete your entire academic program at the school that recommends your OPT. Transferring before finishing your degree may require reapplying.
• CPT: Authorization is school-specific. You will need to obtain new CPT approval from your new university after transfer.
• Make sure to discuss any OPT or CPT plans with both schools’ international student offices before transferring.

Step 7: Maintain your F-1 status throughout the transfer

Maintaining your F-1 status during transfer is critical:

• Do not take unauthorized breaks or reduce your course load without approval.
• Avoid gaps between the SEVIS release date and new program start date.
• Keep copies of all transfer documents and communications.
• Stay in contact with both international student offices for guidance.

More detailed information on maintaining visa status and work rights can be found on our Visa and work rights page.

Common challenges and tips for a smooth transfer

• Delays in SEVIS release: Some schools have set timelines for processing transfers. Start early to avoid missing deadlines.
• Confusion about reporting dates: Clarify with your new school when you must check in to avoid status lapses.
• Travel complications: If you plan to travel, get travel signatures on your I-20 and confirm visa validity.
• OPT timing: Plan your transfer around OPT application windows to prevent losing eligibility.
• Financial proof: You may need to provide updated financial documentation to the new school.

For more on transfer issues and solutions, visit our Switch and transfer section.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the SEVIS transfer process take?

The timeline varies by school but usually takes a few weeks. Start early and communicate with both schools to avoid delays.

What if I miss the reporting deadline at my new school?

Missing the deadline can result in falling out of status, which may require reinstatement or other immigration remedies. Always prioritize timely reporting.

Can I work during the transfer process?

You can continue authorized CPT or OPT work if approved, but unauthorized employment is prohibited. Check with your international office for guidance.

What is the SEVIS release date in the F-1 transfer process?

The SEVIS release date is when your current school releases your SEVIS record to the new university, so the new school can issue your I-20. The 15-day reporting window then runs from the program start date on that I-20.

How soon must I report to my new university after SEVIS transfer?

You must contact your new school's DSO within 15 days of the program start date on your new I-20. The 15 days run from that start date, not from the SEVIS release date.

What role does my current university play in transferring SEVIS records?

Your current university’s international student office initiates the transfer by setting your SEVIS release date and communicating your SEVIS record to the new school.

How long do I have to contact my new school's DSO after transferring?

You must contact the designated school official (DSO) at your new school within 15 days of the program start date on your new Form I-20 to maintain your F-1 status.

When does the 15-day transfer window start for F-1 visa students?

The 15-day transfer window begins on the program start date listed on your new Form I-20, not from the SEVIS release date set by your current school.

Can I start classes at any time after transferring on an F-1 visa?

Your classes at the new school must start at its next available term and within 5 months of transferring out or finishing your current program, whichever is earlier.

Who sets the SEVIS release date during a university transfer?

Your current school sets the SEVIS release date, which initiates the transfer of your SEVIS record to the new university.

Get help with your study decision

Transferring universities in the USA on an F-1 visa involves many steps and strict deadlines. If you need personalized advice on your transfer, visa status, costs, or university choices, contact UniversitySwitch for expert support. We can guide you through your country, university, visa, cost, transfer, or application decisions to help you make the best study choice.

Contact UniversitySwitch today for assistance!