Same SEVIS ID
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F-1 Transfer Student
F-1 Transfer Student
For students currently in the United States on an F-1 visa who want to transfer from one U.S. school to another. This process requires a SEVIS transfer (SEVIS release).
SEVIS Transfer
Current F-1
Already in US
Quick Facts
Key Document
SEVIS Release
Timeline
Complete within 5 months
Are You a Transfer Student?
A Transfer Student is currently in the United States on an F-1 visa and wants to transfer from one U.S. school to another.
This process requires a SEVIS transfer (SEVIS release) from the current school to the new school.
Two Types of Transfer Students:
ESL → University
Transferring from an ESL school to a university.
University → University
Transferring from one U.S. university to another.
Before reviewing the transfer steps, it is important to determine whether you already meet the English requirements or if you need additional ESL classes or a pathway program.
You can contact one of our academic advisors to request a free English placement test if needed.
Still Not Sure About How To Get Started?
Book a session with one of our counselors for additional support!
Book an Information Session
Do I Meet the English Requirements?
Most universities require proof of English proficiency before admission. It is important to know whether you qualify for direct admission or if you need English (ESL) or a pathway program first.
Have Test Scores?
If you've taken Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL, your scores determine direct admission eligibility.
No Test Yet?
That's fine! We can help explore pathway programs, ESL certificates, or free placement tests.
Our Team Can Help You Explore:
- University pathway programs (English + academic courses)
- Universities that accept ESL certificates (OHLA / ILAC students)
- A free English placement test to assess your current level
What Is a Pathway Program?
A pathway program is designed for students who are not yet ready for direct university admission but want a smooth, supported transition into a degree program.
Before You Start: Confirm Readiness
Just like transfer students, it's important to confirm if you meet the requirements:
English-School Pathways
English schools with university agreements accept their English completion certificates (such as OHLA or ILAC) in place of TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
If you are currently studying at one of these schools, you may be able to use your certificate to waive the English requirement. Please confirm with one of our academic advisors.
University Pathway Programs
Offered directly by universities and ideal for students with intermediate to high English levels and slightly lower academic requirements than direct admission.
Pathway Programs Are Ideal If:
- Your GPA is slightly below the direct requirement
- You need to improve your English
- You want extra academic and cultural support
- You want guaranteed or streamlined progression
Key Benefits:
Conditional progression
Smaller class sizes
Academic advising
Start without all requirements
Faster than English-only
Pathway Options Through Our Network
Pathways Through OHLA
- Intensive English programs in the U.S.
- Academic reading, writing, and speaking prep
- Accepted by 300+ partner universities
Pathways Through ILAC
- Internationally recognized programs
- Strong academic English focus
- Accepted by 300+ partner universities
University Pathway Programs Include:
Academic courses + English support
Smaller class sizes and advising
Conditional or guaranteed progression
Credit-bearing coursework
Steps to Complete Before Starting Your Transfer
What Do I Want to Study?
Having a clear idea of your intended major helps you:
- Choose the right university
- Avoid delays
- Save time and money
- Strengthen your application and visa profile
You do not need to be 100% certain—but a clear direction helps our team guide you effectively.
Do I Meet the Academic Requirements for My Major?
Each university and program has academic requirements. One of the most important factors is your GPA (Grade Point Average).
1.0 – 2.4
Associate Degree
2.5 – 3.0
Bachelor's Degree
3.0 – 4.0
Master's Degree
Our Team Can Help:
- Choose the right university
- Avoid delays
- Save time and money
- Strengthen your application and visa profile
Completed a degree outside the U.S.?
If applying for a higher degree (e.g., Bachelor → Master's), most universities require a credential evaluation from a NACES member. We partner with IEE, a NACES-member credential evaluation agency, to assist you.
Note: Credential evaluations are NOT required when transferring from one U.S. university to another U.S. university.
What Is My Budget for the University?
International students must show they can cover their expenses.
Your Budget Should Include:
Tuition and fees
Housing and living expenses
Health insurance
Books and personal expenses
About Scholarships:
- Most scholarships are partial, not full
- Primarily based on GPA and sometimes test scores
- Higher GPA means better scholarship opportunities
Still Not Sure About How To Get Started?
Book a session with one of our counselors for additional support!
Book an Information Session
Why Choose UniApplyNow?
-
Support until you arrive on campus
-
300+ university partners
-
Thousands of students assisted
-
No service fees (free support)
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Free academic advising
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Personalized university recommendations
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Scholarship guidance
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GPA evaluation
Transfer Application Steps
Create or Update Your Profile on UniApplyNow.com
Log in and update your profile.
Current school info
U.S. address
Contact details
F-1 status
Search and Select Transfer-Friendly Programs
Search by major, location, and budget. Identify schools that accept transfer credits and compare admission requirements.
Upload Required Transfer Documents
Passport biographic page
Current F-1 visa
Most recent I-20
Most recent I-94
Current school transcripts
Previous transcripts
English test scores
Meet With an Academic Advisor
Your advisor will review transfer eligibility, estimate credit transfer, confirm start term and program fit, and prepare applications.
Submit Applications Through UniApplyNow
Submit applications, track progress, and respond to additional requests quickly.
Receive Admission & Choose a School
Review tuition, deadlines, and scholarships. Select the best academic and financial option and confirm the transfer timeline.
Request the SEVIS Transfer (SEVIS Release)
Request a SEVIS release from your current school's International Office (DSO).
You typically need:
- Acceptance letter from new school
- New school SEVIS code
- Transfer-out form if required
Our team will guide you through this step.
Receive Your New I-20
After SEVIS release, the new school issues your Transfer Pending / Continued Attendance I-20. Review it carefully for accuracy.
Check In & Maintain Status
- Check in with the new school on time
- Enroll full-time
- Avoid gaps in enrollment or unauthorized work
In Summary
As a transfer student already in the U.S., success depends on:
Choosing the right university
Submitting the transfer correctly
Completing the SEVIS release properly
UniApplyNow keeps everything organized, and our academic advisors support you step by step to ensure a smooth transfer and continued F-1 status.