Transferring Schools

A SEVIS transfer allows you to move your J-1 record from one U.S. school to another while staying in the United States. You must follow the correct steps to maintain your J-1 status and continue your studies without interruption.

Transfer to Stony Brook University (Transfer-In)

Eligibility

You can transfer your SEVIS record to Stony Brook if you:

• Are maintaining valid J-1 status
• Are admitted to Stony Brook
• Submit all required documents to receive your DS-2019
  
  

Important Information

• You must be inside the U.S. to complete a SEVIS transfer
• You must receive your Stony Brook DS-2019 before leaving the U.S.
• You must have at least 30 days remaining in your current J-1 program after your SEVIS record is released
• Your program at Stony Brook must begin in the next available academic term
• You must complete the J-1 International Student Check-In process after your transfer

Example: If your SEVIS record is released on July 1, your current program must end on or after August 1.

How to Transfer In

Step 1: Notify Your Current School
Tell your current international advisor that you plan to transfer. Your SEVIS record must be released to Stony Brook before a new DS-2019 can be issued.

Step 2: Request Your DS-2019
Log in to accessVIS and submit all required forms, including the International Student Transfer Report.

Step 3: Receive Your DS-2019
After your SEVIS record is released, you will receive a Transfer Pending DS-2019 from Stony Brook.

Step 4: Complete Check-In
Submit the required J-1 Check-In in accessVIS to activate your record.

Transfer from Stony Brook (Transfer-Out)

Admission to a new school does not allow you to begin classes there until your SEVIS record is transferred.

Eligibility

You can transfer out if you:

• Are maintaining valid J-1 status
• Have been admitted to a new U.S. school
• Submit your transfer request before your last day of study or Academic Training
• Will begin your new program in the next available term

If you are changing your degree level or field of study, speak with Visa and Immigration Services before requesting a transfer.

Important Considerations

• You do not need to pay the SEVIS fee again
• You may remain in the U.S. between programs
• You will keep the same SEVIS ID number
• Your on-campus employment ends when your current school no longer has access to your SEVIS record
  
  

How to Transfer Out

Submit the Transfer Out Request in accessVIS under J-1 Student Services and upload:

• Your admission letter from the new school
• A transfer form from your new school (if required)
• Your requested SEVIS transfer release date

Understanding the SEVIS Transfer Release Date

The SEVIS transfer release date is the date your SEVIS record moves from your current school to your new school.

On this date:

• Your current school loses access to your SEVIS record
• Your new school gains access and can issue your DS-2019
• Your current DS-2019 becomes invalid
• Your on-campus employment at your current school ends

Your SEVIS transfer release date is usually at the end of the academic term, but it may be set earlier if you meet all requirements and your new school’s academic calendar requires an earlier start date.

Travel and Visa

• If you travel after your transfer release date, you must enter the U.S. using your new DS-2019
• You may use your current, unexpired J-1 visa even if it lists your previous school

Reporting to Your New School

You must report to your new school’s international office within 15 days of the program start date listed on your DS-2019. Failure to report may impact your J-1 status.