What Is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It is a web-based system run by US immigration authorities to track and monitor international students and exchange visitors, and the schools and programs that host them. Every international student in F-1, M-1 or J-1 status has a SEVIS record, created when their school issues the I-20 or the DS-2019 form.

What SEVIS records

The record holds your biographical details, the school and program, your start and end dates, your enrollment status each term, your address, and any employment authorization such as practical training. Designated school officials update it, and they must report certain events, such as your registration at the start of each term.

The SEVIS fee

Most applicants pay a one-time SEVIS I-901 fee before the visa interview. You need your SEVIS ID and keep the receipt to show at the interview and at the border. Amounts and exceptions change, so check the current guidance on the official government site.

Why SEVIS matters to you

Your status depends on keeping your SEVIS record active. A record can be terminated if you do not enroll, drop below full-time study without permission, work without authorization or fail to follow transfer procedures. A terminated record can mean loss of legal status.

Practical steps

• Check in with your school official at the start of every term.
• Report changes of address, major or funding quickly.
• Never start work without approval recorded in SEVIS.
• Transfer correctly, by asking your current school to release your record to the new one.
• Keep your documents, including the fee receipt and I-20.
• Ask questions early, since fixes are easier before status problems arise.

Other uses of the word

SEVIS also covers exchange visitor programs for researchers, teachers and interns on J-1 visas, which use the DS-2019 form instead of the I-20.

Related terms

See Form I-20, designated school official, curricular practical training, letter of acceptance and apostille.