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F-1 Transfer Student
International students smiling and holding USA flag

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

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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 How to Get Started?

Book a session with one of our counselors for additional support!

Book a Free Consultation

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.

Don't Have Test Scores 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:

Type 1

English Language 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.

Type 2

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 Meeting 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

1

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.

2

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.

3

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 How to Get Started?

Book a session with one of our counselors for additional support!

Book a Free Consultation

Why Choose UniApplyNow?

  • Support until you arrive on campus
  • 300+ university partners
  • Thousands of students assisted
  • No service fees (free support)
  • Free academic advising
  • Personalized university recommendations
  • Scholarship guidance
  • GPA evaluation

Transfer Application Steps

1

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
2

Search and Select Transfer-Friendly Programs

Search by major, location, and budget. Identify schools that accept transfer credits and compare admission requirements.

3

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
4

Meet With an Academic Advisor

Your advisor will review transfer eligibility, estimate credit transfer, confirm start term and program fit, and prepare applications.

5

Submit Applications Through UniApplyNow

Submit applications, track progress, and respond to additional requests quickly.

6

Receive Admission & Choose a School

Review tuition, deadlines, and scholarships. Select the best academic and financial option and confirm the transfer timeline.

7

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.

8

Receive Your New I-20

After SEVIS release, the new school issues your Transfer Pending / Continued Attendance I-20. Review it carefully for accuracy.

9

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.

Quick Facts

Same SEVIS ID

Don't have to pay the SEVIS Fee again

Key Document

SEVIS Release

Timeline

Complete within 5 months