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SEVIS Overview

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is an automated system used by schools and exchange programs to collect current information for nonimmigrant international and exchange students while they are in the United States. The internet-based system allows those using it to access accurate and up-to-date information on nonimmigrant international students, exchange students, and their dependents.

What does SEVIS do?

SEVIS allows schools and exchange programs to electronically relay information and event notifications to the program and the Department of State throughout the student’s stay in the U.S. 

SEVIS is not the same as The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). SEVP is the overall program. SEVIS is an automated electronic reporting system

What information does SEVIS record?

Data Required

  • Student Record (Name, Date of Birth, County of Birth/Citizenship, Gender, Permanent International Address)
  • Personal Info updates
  • Financial Info updates
  • Program Information updates
  • Registration
  • Disciplinary Action resulting from a Criminal Conviction
  • Program Extension
  • Authorized to drop below full-time course of study
  • Resumed full course of study
  • OPT Employment
  • Off-campus Employment
  • Student Termination
  • Student completion
  • Add Dependent
  • Update Dependent
  • Terminate Dependent
  • Reactivate Dependent

Always Make Sure to Update

  • Your address in the Registrar’s Office and Admissions Office is always current to report a Change of Address.
  • Your name on your I-20/DS-2019 matches your passport/visa.
  • You have a CWSL email account and access it regularly (or forward it to an active email address) to receive updates; this will be the primary medium of communication.
  • You check the USCIS and Admissions Program websites REGULARLY for updates; changes happen all the time. Stay updated.
  • You check with the Admissions Office before you make any changes to your program or enrollment.
  • You report status of dependents to the Admissions Office.

Who are considered F-1 nonimmigrants?

F-1 nonimmigrants, as defined in section 101(a)(15)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, are international students pursuing a full course of study in a college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, private elementary school, other academic institution, or language training program in the United States that has been approved by the Service to enroll international students.

An F-2 nonimmigrant is an International national who is the spouse or qualifying child (under the age of 21) of an F-1 nonimmigrant.