In order for an F-1 student to complete a transfer to another school, you must be sure that your SEVIS record (I-20) is transferred from NOVA to the new school. If the transfer is not done in a timely manner, the record will be terminated, and you will fall out of status.
To request a transfer of your F-1 SEVIS record from NOVA to a new U.S. school, you must submit to an international student advisor:
- Submit online form 125-061 F-1 Request for Services --> Transfer Out
- Upload a copy of your admission letter to your new school
- If the new school has a transfer form, it may be uploaded at the same time
The international student advisor will release your SEVIS record to the new school at the end of the current semester or within 10 working days, whichever is earlier.
Important Reminders
Deadlines
- Students who have completed an associate degree at NOVA have a 60-day grace period during which they are in F-1 status and may transfer.
- Students who have not completed an associate degree do NOT have a 60-day grace period and should request the transfer before classes begin in the next semester or before their I-20 expires, whichever is earlier.
- Students who have completed OPT also have a 60-day period during which they are in F-1 status and may transfer.
- Students who have been enrolled in the Intensive English Program should request the transfer before classes begin in the next semester or before their I-20 expires, whichever is earlier.
New school start date
You must enroll in your new school in the first available term. The first available term cannot be more than 5 months from the last date of enrollment at NOVA or the end of your OPT employment.
Transfer release date for students with OPT
Release of your SEVIS record terminates your authorization for OPT. If you are working on OPT, don’t request that we release your record until you are ready to stop working.
F-1 status while the record is being transferred
Once the SEVIS record is transferred, you will maintain your F-1 status while you wait for an I-20 from your new school. However, it is important to contact the new school’s admissions or international student office after the release date to ensure that they have the record and all the documents required to issue another I-20.
Travel abroad between schools
Your NOVA I-20 cannot be used to travel abroad if you intend to transfer. If you are planning such a trip, you will need the I-20 from your new school before returning to the U.S. The new I-20 will not need a “travel signature” on page 3 for first re-entry to the U.S. You also will not need a new F-1 visa stamp in your passport as long as the current visa has not expired.