Changing to a New Program at BU

Eligibility Requirements

Current Boston University students or recent graduates in active F-1 status may qualify for a Change of Degree Level to obtain a new I-20 for a new program under the same SEVIS record if they:

  • Have been admitted to a full-time program,
  • Have maintained valid F-1 status,
  • Will begin the new program within five months after their last enrollment or post-completion OPT

Change of Level Timing

SEVIS allows only one active F-1 record at a time, so your new I-20 cannot be issued until you complete your current program or OPT period.

Current Students Moving to a New BU Program

Graduate and non-degree students must complete a Program Completion Confirmation to document their transition between programs.

If you graduate from Boston University and begin a new program immediately, you must receive your new I-20 within 60 days of completing your current program. Otherwise, you may need to travel abroad and may need to apply for a new F-1 visa.

Note: Once your new I-20 is issued, you lose eligibility for post-completion OPT at your current level. Consult your ISSO advisor and indicate your plans on the Confirmation request if you are considering OPT.

BU Students on OPT Beginning a New BU Degree Program

OPT work authorization ends automatically when a new I-20 is issued for your new degree program. Carefully consider your employment plans when entering the end date in the Program Completion Confirmation in the ISSOPortal.

Consult your employer or ISSO staff if you have questions about your employment end date. Ensure all employment documents are submitted and review your unemployment days with ISSO to confirm eligibility to continue under your current SEVIS record.

Your new I-20 must be issued within 60 days of your OPT completion. If not, you may need to leave the U.S. and may need to obtain a new F-1 visa. Typically, your new I-20 will be issued within ten business days of your OPT completion date as reported in the Program Completion Confirmation or completion of your file, whichever is later.

Important Details

  • On-Campus Employment: Students moving from one program to another at Boston University may continue or begin new on-campus employment in between academic programs after they have received a new I-20 reflecting their new program of study.
  • SEVIS Number: remains the same after changing degree level
  • F-1 Visa: The F-1 visa issued for study in your previous program remains valid for travel during your program at BU, as long as you return before the visa expiration date.
  • Status Between Programs: Students transitioning between programs at Boston University may stay in the U.S. between their program or OPT end and a new program start if the gap is five months or less.
    If your previous program or OPT ends more than five months before the new program, students should return home or enroll in classes in an earlier semester.
  • J-1 Student Change of Level: J-1 students may qualify for a program change DS-2019 similar to F-1 students but must complete a change of level within 30 days of program completion. After ISSO receives your admissions file, we will contact you for more details. For questions, J-1 students should email issogac@bu.edu.