Hi all! If you are considering enrolling in the Day 1 CPT program after not being selected in the H-1B lottery, transferring SEVIS might be the most confusing step for you, but actually it’s really quick and easy! Let’s see how to do so
Step 1: Notify your previous school
Contact the International Student Office at the current institution of your intent to transfer. You will likely need to complete specific forms or an online process to initiate the SEVIS transfer.
- Eligibility Check: Make sure that your SEVIS record is active. Be mindful of the 60-day grace period post-graduation or post-OPT to remain eligible for transfer.
Step 2: Set a SEVIS Transfer Release Date
- Coordinate with your current school to determine the SEVIS transfer release date. This date is critical as it affects your OPT status and potential employment continuity.
Step 3: Action Required by Transfer-In School
Once the transfer release date has passed, your new school will take over your SEVIS record and issue a new Form I-20. This form is essential for maintaining your nonimmigrant student status.
- Finalize your transfer and enrollment with the new school’s international office. This transition typically requires 5-8 business days.
- How to deal with the gap while transferring SEVIS??? Let your employer know, and ask them to give you an “unpaid leave.”
To make it clear, let’s see detailedly in the timeline sample:
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May 24: Start the application and submit all required documents.
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June 3: Receive offer letter from the school.
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June 11: Contact your current school to obtain the necessary forms for the SEVIS transfer and schedule the transfer.
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June 12: Connect with Westcliff DSO, and prepare the CPT agreement.
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June 24: Initiate the SEVIS transfer.
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June 25: Submit all CPT-related documents, including the offer letter and CPT agreement.
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June 29: SEVIS transfer completed and new I-20 issued.
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July 1: CPT starts.