The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), housed within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, monitors approximately one million international students pursuing academic or vocational studies (F and M visa holders) and their dependents in the United States. It also certifies the schools and programs that enroll these students. The U.S. Department of State monitors exchange visitors (J visa holders) and their dependents, and oversees exchange visitor programs.
Both SEVP and the U.S. Department of State use the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), an Internet-based system, to monitor and enforce student, visitor and school compliance with U.S. laws and regulations. SEVP also collects and shares SEVIS information with its government partners, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, so only legitimate international students and exchange visitors gain entry into the United States.
SEVP values engagement with the academic community and is dedicated to fostering relationships through extensive outreach. SEVP provides robust resources for its stakeholders on the Study in the States website. Stakeholders can participate in webinars, subscribe to newsletters and access statistical data there.
As part of its outreach efforts, on July 28, SEVP will participate in a joint panel with the U.S. Department of State at AACRAO’s 21st Annual Summer Institute for International Admissions. SEVP’s session will:
- Highlight the admissions process for international students, with a focus on the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”
- Note SEVIS enhancements, as well as process changes for designated school officials.
- Explain the U.S. Department of State’s role in issuing visas for international students.
For more information about SEVP, visit Study in the States. The site offers the latest information and resources for international students and school officials through blog posts, news articles, interactive guides and videos. Also, be sure to connect with Study in the States via Twitter (@StudyinStates) and Facebook.
Interested in attending the 2014 Summer Institute for International Admissions? Sign up here!