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How to Transfer Your F-1 Visa to a New School: AELS Irvine Can Help

Are you an international student in Irvine thinking about transferring to a new school? The F-1 SEVIS transfer process can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, it does not have to be. At AELS Irvine, we guide students through every step of the transfer process so you can focus on what matters most: improving your English and achieving your goals.

What Is an F-1 SEVIS Transfer?

When you transfer from one SEVP-certified school to another, your SEVIS record must be officially transferred to the new school. This is not the same as simply enrolling. Your current school must release your SEVIS record, and your new school must issue you a new Form I-20 before you can begin studying. Timing matters a great deal here, especially if you want to maintain your legal status throughout the process.

Key Steps in the Transfer Process

The general process involves notifying your current school of your intent to transfer, choosing your transfer date carefully, enrolling at your new school (such as AELS), receiving your new I-20, and updating your records with USCIS if needed. Each step has deadlines that must be followed to avoid gaps in your status.

How AELS Irvine Supports You

At AELS Irvine, our experienced staff helps international students understand the paperwork, communicate with their previous school, and get their new I-20 issued correctly and on time. We offer flexible small-group ESL classes designed around real conversation and practical communication skills.

AELS Irvine
10 Corporate Park Suite 100, Irvine, CA
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 Ready to start your transfer? Read more on the AELS blog or visit us at www.aels.edu to learn about our ESL programs and get the support you need.

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