SEVIS

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a real-time electronic system that maintains records for individuals in F or J status. Each F-1 student and J-1 exchange visitor has a unique SEVIS record created by ISSO before issuing your immigration document. Your SEVIS number is located in the upper right corner of your immigration document.

SEVIS enables BU to provide updated program information to government agencies as required by federal sponsorship regulations. Updates, program extensions, and document issuance are all recorded through SEVIS.

Key Immigration Requirements Related to SEVIS:

  • New F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and F-2/J-2 dependents must complete Initial ISSO check-in remotely by answering questions and uploading immigration documents within 15 days of arriving in the U.S. or program start date. Check-in is done via ISSOPortal

  • Continuing F-1 students must register for classes each semester so ISSO can report continued attendance to DHS via SEVIS.

  • ISSO maintains accurate SEVIS records for each student and exchange visitor.

Reportable Events in SEVIS

BU reports only federally required information, including data on your immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019), personal info, program details, dependents, and financial data.

Additional reportable events affecting nonimmigrant status include:

For F-1 Students:

  • Semester registration/enrollment
  • Leaves of absence, suspensions, withdrawals
  • Authorized/unauthorized drops below full course of study
  • Off-campus employment
  • Changes in U.S. residential address
  • Changes in major, program, or expected completion date
  • Transfers to a new college or degree level
  • Employment periods authorized or unauthorized
  • Termination of status (degree completion, status change, failure to maintain status, etc.)

For J-1 Exchange Visitors:

  • Program extensions
  • Changes of status
  • Replacement of lost forms
  • Amendments and corrections
  • Changes in school or sponsor
  • Completion of studies or exchange program
  • Changes in funding

More details on SEVIS can be found on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website.