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SEVIS Guide: Student Exchange Visitor Information System - Complete F1 Requirements

SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) is the electronic system tracking international students and exchange visitors in the United States. This comprehensive guide covers SEVIS requirements, registration, fees, maintaining status, and how SEVIS affects your F1 student visa. Understanding SEVIS is critical for maintaining valid student status.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS is the US government Student Exchange Visitor Information System electronically tracking F1 students and exchange visitors throughout their US stay. Schools register students in SEVIS after admission. SEVIS fee ($350) required before visa interview. SEVIS number assigned to each student. Status must be maintained throughout studies. Violations can result in deportation. Schools monitor full-time enrollment and maintain SEVIS records. SEVIS is mandatory for all F1 students.

SEVIS Purpose & Requirements

Federal Tracking System

SEVIS electronically tracks all F1 and J1 visa holders, schools, and status changes. Government monitors student compliance with visa requirements.

School Registration

Schools register accepted international students in SEVIS. Registration creates SEVIS number and I-20 certificate required for visa application.

Status Monitoring

Schools report enrollment status, address changes, employment, and any status violations to SEVIS.

SEVIS Fee

Fee Amount

SEVIS fee is $350 for most students. Fee waiver available in limited circumstances.

Payment & Documentation

Pay online at SEVIS website. Receive I-901 receipt required for visa interview. Payment must be completed before visa appointment.

When to Pay

Pay SEVIS fee after school registers you in SEVIS and provides SEVIS number. Must pay before visa interview.

I-20 Certificate

Definition

I-20 is certificate issued by school certifying student acceptance and financial support. Required for F1 visa application.

Information on I-20

Includes student name, SEVIS number, school information, program duration, and estimated costs.

Obtaining I-20

School issues I-20 after acceptance and SEVIS registration. Student uses I-20 for visa application.

Maintaining SEVIS Status

Full-Time Enrollment

Must maintain full-time enrollment throughout studies. Reduced course load requires school approval.

Academic Progress

Must maintain adequate academic progress as defined by school. Failing grades may affect status.

Address Reporting

Must report address changes to designated school official within 10 days of change.

Employment Authorization

Work is restricted to on-campus employment (20 hours/week during school). Off-campus work requires specific authorization.

SEVIS Violations & Consequences

Common Violations

Dropping below full-time enrollment without approval
Unauthorized employment
Overstaying after program completion
Failing to report address changes
Academic dismissal
Criminal activity

Consequences

SEVIS violations can result in termination from school, deportation, ineligibility for future visas, and bars to reentry.

FAQs

What is SEVIS number?

Unique identification number assigned by school when registering student in SEVIS. Required for visa application and maintaining status.

Can I work off-campus on F1?

Limited off-campus work allowed with specific authorization (CPT, OPT, economic hardship). Otherwise restricted to on-campus employment.

What if I'm not registered in SEVIS?

Cannot get I-20 or visa. Must contact school immediately. School will register you in SEVIS before issuing I-20.

Conclusion

SEVIS is critical system for F1 students. Understanding SEVIS requirements, fees, and status maintenance ensures compliance and successful student visa experience. Maintain enrollment, report changes, and follow work restrictions. VisaGrade provides comprehensive SEVIS guidance for international students.