SEVIS
What is SEVIS?
SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It is a government-mandated, internet-based system that provides users with access to information regarding F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant students, exchange visitors, and their dependents. SEVIS links educational institutions authorized to admit and enroll international students to U.S. embassies, consulates, ports of entry, and the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (formerly BCIS).
How does SEVIS work?
- Once a student is admitted by Nova Southeastern University, the student’s information is entered into SEVIS and a bar-coded I-20 is issued.
- The student then visits a U.S. consulate/embassy abroad to acquire the F-1 visa. The consulate/embassy confirms that the I-20 is valid and issues the visa.
- When the student enters the U.S., the immigration officer records the event in SEVIS.
- The student then reports to the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) at NSU to confirm arrival so that we can notify the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), that the student has begun classes.
- NSU continues to provide regular electronic reports to USCIS throughout the student’s academic career.