If you are on OPT and thinking about transferring universities, pause before submitting anything. A SEVIS transfer may move your record to the new school, but it can also affect your current OPT work authorization. That is why this is a high-risk decision to review with your DSO before moving.

Free options check On OPT and thinking about transferring?

Before choosing a school, check your credit transfer, visa/status situation, work options, total cost and cashback eligibility.

The key point

OPT is connected to your current SEVIS record and completed program. When your SEVIS record is transferred to a new school, your relationship with the old school and its OPT authorization can change. Do not assume you can keep working after the transfer release date.

When students consider transferring during OPT

  • They cannot find a job and want to start a new program.
  • They want to move into a Day 1 CPT program.
  • They want a cheaper or better-fit graduate program.
  • Their OPT is ending and they need a new academic route.
  • They want to protect status while planning a longer-term path.

Questions to ask your DSO

  1. What happens to my OPT on the transfer release date?
  2. Can I keep working before the transfer release date?
  3. When will the new school issue my transfer-pending I‑20?
  4. When must I start the new program?
  5. Does my new program have CPT or internship options?
  6. Will this affect STEM OPT or future H‑1B planning?

Better next step

Before transferring, compare three routes: continue OPT, transfer to a new program, or wait until OPT ends and start a new degree. The right choice depends on your job status, unemployment days, grace period, budget and career plan.

Official sources to verify