Transferring the SEVIS record

When an F-1 or J-1 student changes school, the SEVIS record for the student should be transferred to ensure that all information about the student stays with the SEVIS ID number.

Transfer to UNA

As a current F-1 student, your SEVIS record will need to transferred to the University of North Alabama so that we can update your I-20. Please submit the UNA admission letter to the DSO at your current school and request a SEVIS Record Release Date on or before the start date listed on your admission letter or within 50 days after the current Program End Date, whichever is sooner. After the Release Date, you must have the UNA I-20 to re-enter the US.

 Please follow these steps:

  • Notify your current DSO that you are planning to transfer.
  • Give the DSO a copy of the UNA acceptance letter and page 2 of the SEVIS History Record (see below).
  • Set a SEVIS Release Date to transfer theSEVIS record. See above.
  • On that date, UNA will have access to the SEVIS record and a DSO will update your I-20.
  • If you travel internationally after the SEVIS Release Date, you must have the UNA I-20 to enter the US when you return.
  • You can remain in the US between semesters. 

Your Form I-20 will be available for pick up when you arrive at the UNA campus, or it can be e-mailed to you as needed. 

SEVIS History Record

The Office of International Affairs does not require a "transfer clearance"-type form for application or admission. After admission, OIA requests that all SEVIS transfer students complete a SEVIS Record History form to make sure that the student's important information is recorded at the time of transfer. A DSO will send the form to you after admission and you should return the form prior to enrolling.

Transfer Away from UNA

A student who wishes to transfer to another SEVP-Certified school should be accepted at the new school and then notify a DSO at UNA by emailing oiaservices@una.edu. The student will be instructed to complete the following four steps.

  1. Fill out and return UNA’s transfer form to permission to release information to the new school. Be sure to include the acceptance letter from the new school.
  2. Schedule an in-person exit interview. (Not required for graduating students.)
  3. Finish your final classes or request a complete withdraw from classes by emailing registrar@una.edu. 
  4. Complete the check out procedures with UNA Housing and move out of university residences. There is a specific form and specific actions. Contact housing@una.edu for details.

Timing the Transfer

Transfers of graduated students or students on OPT must happen before the end of the 60 grace period after graduation and/or OPT. You must enroll in the next available session but no later than five months after SEVIS Release Date, whichever is earlier.

For students who are in the middle of their Program of Study, you must enroll in the next available session at the new school but no later than five months after the Program End Date or SEVIS Release Date, whichever is earlier.