SEVIS: Frequently Asked
Questions
Q. What is SEVIS?
A. Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is an Internet-based
system that maintains accurate and current information on nonimmigrant
students, exchange visitors and their dependents. SEVIS enables schools
and program sponsors to transmit electronic information and event notifications
via the Internet to the USCIS and DOS throughout a student or exchange
visitor’s stay in the United States. The system reflects international
student or exchange visitor status changes, such as admission at Port
of Entry (POE), change of address, change in program of study, and
other details.
Q. How does SEVIS work?
A. SEVIS is a recent computer system that will monitor your stay in the
US as a foreign student. You will be issued a SEVIS ID number by the
USCIS and that will be your USCIS identification number as long as
you are an international student. Different government agencies such
as the State Department, Port of Entries, and others will be able to
access this information.
Q. What if I fall out-of-status in SEVIS?
A. Because SEVIS will monitor everything electronically, there will be
little room for negotiation and trying to get reinstated. Your class
load will be automatically reported to SEVIS, so if you drop below
the class limit without permission, there is not much we can do to
help you. You must go to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
(USCIS) and get reinstated. This will not be an easy process. Failing
to notify USCIS of any changes such as address, name, etc., within
10 days will be considered a violation and put you out-of-status.
Q. What new information does SEVIS need?
A. In order for you to obtain a new SEVIS I-20, we will need to have
information about your home country. We will need your current foreign
address as well as your current address where you live in the United
States. PO Boxes are not allowed in SEVIS.
Q. Can I enter information into SEVIS myself?
A. No. Only the International Student Service will be able to do so.
Q. What else should I expect with this new SEVIS?
A. Not just a new I-20, but also a lot of new regulations. As soon as
the new regulations are ratified, we will let you know and post them
on the office web site.
Q. I still don’t understand!
A. If you have more questions about SEVIS and/or the new regulations,
please do not hesitate to contact our office at Havican 14. We will
be happy to assist you.
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