Transferring Out

If you plan to study at a different U.S. institution, you can request your F-1 SEVIS record to be transferred to your new school. This allows you to keep the same SEVIS ID number and maintain your F-1 status without interruption.

Eligibility for Transfer

You may transfer your SEVIS record if you meet the following requirements:

• Maintaining Status: You are currently maintaining your F-1 status with Stony Brook University.

• Admission: You have received an official admission letter from another SEVIS-certified institution.

• Timing: Your new program starts at the next available term, or within five months of:

  • your last day of classes, or

  • your OPT or STEM OPT end date

How to Request a Transfer

Follow these steps to complete your transfer:

1. Receive Admission
   Obtain your official acceptance letter from your new school.

2. Choose a Transfer Release Date
   Your transfer release date is the day Stony Brook University will transfer your SEVIS record to your new school. Choose your date based on your current situation:
   • If you are currently studying:
     Select a date after your final class or the end of your academic term
   • If you are graduating:
     Choose a date within your 60-day grace period after your program end date.
   • If you are on OPT or STEM OPT:
     Select a date on or after your last day of employment or work authorization. Your transfer must be completed no later than the end of your 60-day grace period.
3. Submit the Transfer Out Request
   Log in to accessVIS and submit the Transfer Out Request under F-1 Student Services. Be sure to upload the following:
   • Your admission letter
   • Transfer-in form from new institution, if required. This will be completed and sent back to you upon review of your transfer out request. 

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. On your release date, VIS will no longer have access to your SEVIS record. Your new school will issue your new Form I-20 or DS-2019.

Important Deadlines

You must submit your transfer request before your grace period ends.

This is no later than 60 days after your program end date or OPT/STEM OPT end date.

Key Requirements

• Employment: You must stop all on-campus and off-campus work (including OPT or CPT) on or before your transfer release date.
• Travel: If you travel outside the U.S., you must re-enter using the Form I-20 or DS-2019 from your new school.
• Record Updates: After your release date, Stony Brook cannot update your SEVIS record. Make sure your information is correct before the transfer.