If you are an international student in the U.S. with a Form I-20 visa, and your current school is not the right fit, you can transfer to a different nursing school. While the decision to change nursing schools is highly personal, you don’t have to navigate the process alone.
International Enrollment Advisors at FVI School of Nursing and Technology are here to guide and assist you throughout this transition. Our nursing school for international students in Miami and Miramar, Florida, offers a welcoming, supportive learning environment to make you feel comfortable and at ease as you expand your skills and prepare for a successful healthcare career.
Why Do I-20 Students Transfer Schools?
International students may choose to change schools for a variety of reasons:
- Find a Better Fit: Students may not feel their current program sets them up for success, and a new program is better equipped to help them reach their career goals.
- Grade requirements: If students do not meet grade requirements for their program, they risk potentially losing their visa. Transferring to a new nursing program can possibly allow them to reset and start again while maintaining their status.
- Program change: Students may decide to change their specialty or train for a different nursing role.
- Location: Students may prefer a nursing school that is more convenient or closer to home, family, or friends.
- Cost: Affordability is important when choosing a nursing program. Transferring to a less expensive school often makes good financial sense.
- Program completion: After completing one nursing program, students can enroll in additional courses to expand their knowledge and skills.
How to Transfer Nursing Schools on an I-20
Once an international student is accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school like FVI, their information is entered into a government database called SEVIS. This web-based system tracks information about nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors in the U.S.
The process of transferring while on the I-20 involves several steps:
- You must first be accepted into the new school and give your current school a copy of the acceptance letter and the SEVIS transfer code supplied by the new school.
- Both schools will agree on a transfer date.
- Once the date is determined, the new school issues a new I-20 to reflect the transfer, and the student can begin their studies.
How FVI Helps I-20 Students Navigate the Transfer Process
At FVI, our dedicated international enrollment advisors are here to explain the steps involved and assist you throughout the transfer process. From determining your eligibility to explaining the nursing programs available at FVI, we strive to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Our popular two-year nursing program in the USA for international students prepares students to work in a wide range of careers and care settings. Contact FVI to discuss the transfer process, or apply now to get started today.
