How do I transfer to a new school or change my academic level?
FAQ
Written by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
How do I transfer to a new school or change my academic level?
Once you are admitted to a new U.S. school, a SEVIS record transfer moves your F-1/J-1 record to that new school. If you are remaining at your original school, and changing to a new degree level, that change of academic level (e.g., bachelor's to master's) is processed by your current school in your SEVIS record. Both start with admission to the new program and require close coordination with your DSO/ARO.
To transfer schools
Secure admission to your new school.
Give your current DSO/ARO proof of admission.
Coordinate a SEVIS record "release date" with both schools. After this date, your SEVIS record will belong to the new school. They will then be able to issue your new “transfer” I-20 form.
Follow all of the new school's academic and SEVIS transfer procedures.
(For the full transfer process, see the Maintaining Legal Status transfer guide.)
To change academic level
Secure admission to the new academic program.
Give your DSO/ARO proof of admission and proof of new funding sources and amounts.
Your DSO/ARO will then extend/update your I-20/DS-2019 and your SEVIS record.
Follow your school's procedures to begin the new academic program.
Important timing & work rules
After the SEVIS transfer release date, you can't work on your former campus — and any OPT ends on that date, even if your EAD is still valid.
If you are changing academic level at the same school, any on-campus work can continue once your new I-20/DS-2019 is issued.
Begin classes at your new school/program in the next available term to maintain status.
F-1: record must be released within 5 months of your last attendance or within your 60-day grace period
J-1: within 30 days
Reference: 8 CFR 214.2(f)(8)(ii)
