Navigating nursing education as an international student can come with unique challenges, especially when considering transferring to a new nursing school. At FVI, we make it easy to transfer your SEVIS record, allowing you to maintain your F-1 status and continue your academic progress without interruption.
Choosing to transfer should not delay your path to a successful career in healthcare—in fact, it can help you take the next step toward achieving your goals. Here’s everything you need to know about SEVIS transfers, their advantages, and how FVI is here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is a SEVIS Transfer?
A SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) transfer is a process that enables F-1 visa students to transfer their electronic immigration record from one SEVP-certified institution to another. This step is essential when international students decide to continue their studies at a different school without compromising their visa status. By transferring their SEVIS record, students can switch to their new program without interruption and continue their education in compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
Benefits of a SEVIS Transfer for Nursing Students
Transferring your SEVIS record offers several advantages for international nursing students. Let’s break them down:
Maintaining F-1 Visa Status
Transferring your SEVIS record helps you retain your F-1 status, avoiding the complications of starting a new visa process.
Cost Savings
A transfer saves money by eliminating the need to pay the SEVIS fee again.
Streamlined Visa Process
Students transferring their SEVIS record can keep their existing SEVIS ID number, which means there is no need to apply for a new F-1 visa, saving both time and effort.
Flexibility in Staying in the U.S.
Even if your F-1 visa has expired, transferring your SEVIS record allows you to remain in the U.S. between academic programs. This eliminates the stress and inconvenience of having to leave and re-enter the country to maintain your visa status.
Travel Benefits
A SEVIS transfer permits international students to travel freely between programs. Unlike the restrictions for new students, which prevent entry into the U.S. more than 30 days before a program starts, transferring students can re-enter at any time.
Preserving Academic Progress
When you transfer your SEVIS record to a new school, your academic credits and progress transfer with you.
Flexibility in Choosing the Right School
A SEVIS transfer enables you to select a nursing school that better aligns with your academic and career goals. Whether you’re seeking smaller class sizes, better faculty support, or specific clinical training, transferring gives you the freedom to find the best fit.
Steps to Transfer Your SEVIS Record
While the SEVIS transfer process may seem complicated, it’s a straightforward procedure when approached step by step. Here’s an overview:
- Get Accepted to a New SEVP-Certified Nursing School – Start by applying and receiving an admission offer from the new institution. FVI’s admissions team is available to help you get started.
- Inform Your Current School’s Designated School Official (DSO) – Notify your current DSO about your intention to transfer and provide proof of admission to the new school. Together, you will decide on a transfer release date, which is when your SEVIS record will move to the new institution.
- Receive Your New Form I-20 – Once your SEVIS record is released, the new school will issue a new Form I-20, officially transferring your immigration status.
- Finalize Enrollment and Begin Classes – Use the new Form I-20 to complete enrollment and, if needed, travel internationally. You’ll also need this document for re-entry into the U.S.
At FVI School of Nursing and Technology, we assist international students throughout the SEVIS transfer process. Our student support team is here to answer your questions and help in any way we can. Learn more about our nursing school for international students and the resources available to help you succeed.
Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Education
Transferring your SEVIS record is an efficient way to continue your nursing education while maintaining your F-1 visa status. Explore the 2-year nursing program in the USA for international students at FVI and take the next step toward a rewarding nursing career.
