What are the steps for international students to transfer universities in the US?

April 25, 2024

If you are dissatisfied with your current US university or have other reasons for wanting to transfer universities, you might ask yourself, is it possible to transfer schools while on an F-1 visa? Transitioning to another school on an F-1 visa entails a distinct procedure compared to transferring as a domestic student, hence thorough research is essential before applying to new institutions.

What are the steps for international students to transfer universities in the US?


In the United States, transferring schools entails the process of applying to and enrolling in a college or university while currently enrolled in a different institution. It is typically most frequent for students to transfer after completing their first or second year of studies. Generally, the majority or all of the college credits you have previously earned can be transferred to the new institution upon admission. You have the option to pursue a different degree or continue working towards the same one you were pursuing at your initial school.

There exist numerous valid reasons for international students to consider transferring schools:

  • You were not admitted to your preferred university and seek an alternative opportunity.
  • You aim to switch your area of academic focus.
  • You intend to enroll in a more affordable institution for foundational courses to economize.
  • You are dissatisfied with your present educational institution or program.

What transfer alternatives are available for international students?

In the US, there are two prevalent transfer pathways: transitioning from a community college to a 4-year institution and transferring between 4-year institutions. When deciding on the most suitable transfer option for you, take into account your motivations for transferring as well as your academic and career objectives.

1.Transfer Universities from a community college to a 4-year institution.

Many community colleges welcome international students and often have lower tuition fees compared to 4-year institutions. They may also accept students with lower GPAs and standardized test scores. The majority of credits earned at community colleges are transferable to 4-year institutions. By attending a community college for two years and then transferring to a 4-year school for the remaining two years, you can earn both an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree within four years at a reduced cost.

This option is beneficial for students who are still undecided about their choice of major. International students can explore various subjects at a community college before making a commitment to a 4-year program in the US. Additionally, some universities collaborate with local community colleges to streamline the transfer process.

2.Moving laterally from one 4-year institution to another 4-year institution.

International students currently enrolled in 4-year colleges and universities also have the option to transfer to different institutions. Some colleges have specialized programs with limited academic offerings. Students enrolled in such schools who wish to change their academic focus may need to apply to a different type of institution to complete their bachelor’s degree. Additionally, some students may realize that the culture of their current school is not suitable for them. After exploring different resources available at the school, you may determine that transferring could enhance your overall college experience and better prepare you for your career.

Note: Keep in mind that applying as an international transfer student might impact your eligibility for financial assistance. Certain colleges and universities provide financial aid to international students solely if they apply as first-year applicants, rather than transfer applicants (e.g., Northwestern University). Conversely, some institutions offer scholarships specifically tailored to international transfer students (e.g., Boise State University). Be sure to visit each school’s financial aid webpage to verify eligibility.

How to transfer from one university to another as an international student

The precise requirements and transfer procedures for international students vary among institutions and sometimes among academic programs. Some schools permit students to transfer at any time, whether it’s after three years of study or just one semester. Others only accept transfer students who have completed 1-2 years of coursework.

Transfer applicants may also encounter different admission criteria, application deadlines, and notification dates compared to first-time applicants. For instance, the institution you intend to transfer to may have alternative English proficiency requirements for international student admissions compared to your current institution. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the international student services office at each school for guidance on transferring to or from their institution.

Here are the basic steps on how to transfer universities an F-1 student:

  1. Submit applications to different colleges and/or universities in the US as an international transfer student
  2. Confirm admission to a specific institution
  3. Seek assistance from your current school’s Designated School Official (DSO) at the International Student Services Office (ISSS) to transfer your SEVIS record to your new institution
  4. Furnish the DSO with necessary documentation, such as your acceptance letter or contact details for your new institution
  5. Ask the DSO at your new institution to issue a new I-20 form for you
  6. Enroll in classes at your new institution within 15 days of the program start date indicated on your new I-20

Certain universities may consider admitting international graduate transfer students on an individual basis. Nevertheless, there is a lower likelihood that all your credits will be transferrable to your new graduate program due to the specialized nature of graduate coursework compared to undergraduate studies. If you are a graduate student considering transferring, you can follow the same steps outlined earlier.

Additional factors to take into account for international transfer students

Exercise caution if you plan to travel outside of the US during the transfer process between schools. If your transfer release date from your current school falls while you are abroad, you will be unable to re-enter the US without an updated Initial Form I-20 from your new institution. According to USCIS guidelines, it is advisable to refrain from international travel during the transfer process.

Furthermore, any student work authorization you obtained through your current school, such as OPT or CPT, will be terminated on your transfer release date. If you have secured authorization for a summer internship through your current school, ensure that your transfer release date is scheduled after the internship concludes.

Lastly, remember that transferring will not extend the duration of your allotted OPT time. Regardless of the institution you attend, you are entitled to only 12 months of OPT work authorization per degree level. Even if you change majors during the transfer process, you will not receive additional OPT time. To gain work experience while enrolled at your new institution, consider selecting a program that offers internships aligned with your interests and utilizes CPT.

Conclusion

The majority of US colleges and universities welcome international transfer students, which is advantageous for those studying in the US. If you are dissatisfied with your current institution, you have the option to transfer to another school without forfeiting the credits you have accrued. Although international students must adhere to additional steps and precautions to facilitate a successful transfer, the process is quite manageable.