Definition

A J-1 student may transfer from one designated program to another program, provided the two programs have similar objectives.

Eligibility

• The student is in good academic standing.
• The student has not worked without authorization.
• The student is within the time limits specified in part 3 of his/her current Form DS-2019.

Procedures

In most cases, admission to a new institution will have already been processed. The Responsible Officer at the new school will require verification of the student's status as well as institutional information from the current school prior to issuing a new Form DS-2019.

• Student informs current Responsible Office (RO) of intent to transfer.
• SEVIS Transfer Out: Discuss the date of actual transfer with current program RO. Current RO will determine the best date to set for releasing the student from current program. NOTE: This date must be ON OR PRIOR to the current program end date on the Form DS-2019, if the student remains in the U.S. between programs .
• New RO may request you to have your current RO complete a Transfer Form that will include information necessary to complete the transfer process. The RO at the new institution will then have access to and retrieve the student's SEVIS record. A new Form DS-2019 will be created by the RO at the new school.
• Student must check in and report to the new school within 30 days of the new program start date to make the official transfer final.

Note

Students should exercise caution with a casual decision to transfer from school to school. Transferring electronic records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) can be problematic for students who are not serious about moving to another institution and then change their minds. Careful planning and open communication with one's international student advisor is highly recommended.