Major & Academic Program Updates

Your F-1 status is based on the program listed on your Form I-20.
If you add or change your major or academic focus, you must update your SEVIS record within 21 days of the change being approved.

You do not need U.S. government approval to change your major or academic program. However, your Form I-20 must always reflect your current program.

Important: Your major/program has implications for CPT and OPT opportunities. Make sure your Form I-20 is accurate at all times.

Undergraduate Students

• Your academic changes are reported automatically through the university system.
• VIS will update your SEVIS record after your major change is approved.
• You will receive a new Form I-20 for changes to your major.
• You will receive instructions by email within 3 weeks to access your updated Form I-20 in accessVIS.
• Changes to a minor are updated in SEVIS, but you will not receive a new Form I-20.
• Contact VIS if you do not receive an update within 3 weeks

Review the University guidelines for declaring or changing a major or minor

Graduate Students

• You must first be admitted and matriculated to your new program.
• Once matriculated, you must request an update to your I-20 in accessVIS.
• Updates to academic program required new financial documentation. View the estimated costs.

How to Apply

1. Log in to accessVIS using your NetID and password.

2. Select F-1 Student Services from the left menu.

3. Submit the Change of Academic Program request, uploading your financial documentation.

4. Upon submission, the request will be routed to your academic department to confirm your new academic program details.

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. If your request is approved, you will receive a new Form I-20 showing the new academic program.