Academic Verification Requests

Use this guide to review and complete academic verification requests in accessVIS for F-1 and J-1 students. Your responses help VIS verify academic requirements, document your department’s determination, and assess a student’s eligibility for an immigration benefit or employment authorization.

What You Are Verifying

Many international student requests require "second approvers" from the academic department. Depending on the request, you may need to confirm:

• Remaining academic requirements

• Academic standing and anticipated degree completion

• Degree applicability and program details

• Department support and academic basis

Helpful Tips for Completing Requests

• Use the login information provided in the email. Each request has unique login credentials. Do not save accessVIS login information in your browser, as it may interfere with accessing other requests.

• Review the student’s submission. Select the link at the top of the request webpage to view the information the student provided.

• Respond from your department’s perspective. You may reference the student’s responses, but independently verify the information against your department’s records and program requirements.

• Ensure accuracy. Provide complete, accurate answers that reflect your department’s academic determination. Assume the student will successfully complete any coursework currently in progress. Your responses may be reviewed during a compliance audit.

Processing Time and Expectations

Please complete academic verification requests within 2–3 business days to help prevent delays.

If a student has an approaching deadline, encourage them to notify VIS. Expedited processing is not guaranteed.

Your department’s approval does not guarantee approval of the student’s request. VIS reviews all applicable eligibility requirements and makes the final determination for immigration benefits.

Troubleshooting

• Cannot find the student

  • Student ID numbers cannot be included in accessVIS email notifications because the system automatically masks them for security reasons.

  • Email vis@stonybrook.edu for assistance identifying the student.

• Incorrect second approver

  • Email vis@stonybrook.edu with the correct approver’s contact information.

  • Specify whether the change applies only to the current request or to future requests as well.

• Cannot log in to accessVIS

  • Your browser may have saved login information from another student or scholar’s request.

  • Use Google Chrome, the recommended browser for accessVIS.

  • Clear your browser cache and browsing history, including saved accessVIS login information.

  • Try accessing accessVIS in an incognito window.

• Received a request in error

  • Email vis@stonybrook.edu.

  • Include the student’s name and date of birth so VIS can identify the request.

Need Help?

Contact vis@stonybrook.edu if you have questions about a request, need clarification about what you are being asked to verify, need to correct an approver, or experience accessVIS issues.