The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is a crucial component of the international student journey in the United States. Managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), SEVP ensures compliance with immigration regulations while supporting students in achieving their educational goals.
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What Is SEVP?
SEVP serves as the link between international students, exchange visitors, educational institutions, and the U.S. government. Its primary role is to monitor and regulate schools and students under the F, M, and J visa categories. This is achieved through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a secure online platform that tracks and manages data about schools, students, exchange visitors, and their dependents.
The Role of SEVP in the Student Process
SEVP plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity of the U.S. education system while enabling students to pursue academic and vocational opportunities. Here’s how SEVP impacts the international student process:
1. SEVP-Certified Schools
To host international students, institutions must be certified by SEVP. These schools are authorized to issue the Form I-20, a vital document for students seeking F-1 or M-1 visas. Certification guarantees that the school meets U.S. educational and immigration standards.
2. Form I-20
The Form I-20, or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a document issued by SEVP-certified schools. It is required for:
- Applying for a student visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Paying the SEVIS I-901 fee, which supports SEVP operations.
- Entering the United States and maintaining student status.
3. SEVIS Tracking
SEVIS is an essential tool that:
- Tracks students’ personal, academic, and immigration information.
- Monitors their enrollment and progress.
- Records changes such as program transfers, extensions, or address updates.
4. Maintaining Visa Status
SEVP provides guidelines to help students maintain their legal status while in the U.S. Key requirements include:
- Full-time enrollment in an SEVP-certified institution.
- Compliance with visa terms, such as restrictions on unauthorized employment.
- Reporting any changes in personal or academic circumstances to the school’s Designated School Official (DSO).
Apply for Form I-20 for SEVP
Entering the United States
You are expected to have the signed Form I-20 on hand as you enter the country. Do not pack it away in your suitcase. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer will instruct you to present your Form I-20 at the port of entry. You may arrive up to 30 days before the start date listed on your Form I-20; or
Changing status to F or M while in the United States
You need a Form I-20 if you are already in the United States as another type of nonimmigrant and you are applying to USCIS to change your status to F or M.
Applying for a nonimmigrant visa
The Form I-20 lists your program start date, 30 days before which you are allowed to enter the United States. F-1 and M-1 student visas can be issued up to 365 days in advance of your course of study start date. Your type of student visa must match the type of Form I-20 you have (e.g., F-1 or M-1). You are expected to have the original Form I-20 at your visa interview. The consular officer may accept a copy of the Form I-20 in limited circumstances that warrant visa issuance prior to you receiving the original Form I-20.