SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System)

What Is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, an online database managed by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The system tracks and maintains up-to-date information about:

• International students (F-1 and M-1 visa holders), 

• Exchange visitors (J-1 visa holders), (J FORMS)

• Their dependents (F-2, M-2, and J-2 visas).

SEVIS connects schools, exchange program sponsors, and U.S. government agencies — including the Department of State and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — to ensure accurate data sharing. 

The main purpose of SEVIS is to verify compliance with visa regulations, prevent misuse of student visas, and enhance national security while supporting lawful educational exchange.

How SEVIS Works

Every international student or exchange visitor approved to study in the U.S. is entered into the SEVIS database by their school or program sponsor.
Upon acceptance to a certified institution, the student receives one of two key documents:

• Form I-20 for F-1 or M-1 students, or

• Form DS-2019 for J-1 exchange visitors.

Both forms include a unique SEVIS ID number, which starts with the letter “N” (for example, N0012345678). This number is used to track the individual’s status from visa issuance through program completion or departure.

Students must also pay a SEVIS I-901 fee before applying for a visa. This fee supports the maintenance of the SEVIS database and helps fund compliance monitoring.

Once the student arrives in the United States, their Designated School Official (DSO) or Responsible Officer (RO) must update their SEVIS record regularly — recording changes such as address updates, course enrollment, or completion of studies.

Maintaining SEVIS Status

Keeping SEVIS information accurate and current is a legal requirement for all international students and exchange visitors.
To maintain valid visa status, individuals must:

• Attend the school or program listed on their I-20 or DS-2019,

• Enroll full-time unless otherwise authorized,

• Report any changes in address, program, or financial sponsorship within 10 days,

• Avoid unauthorized employment,

• Depart the U.S. upon completion of their program or within the permitted grace period.

Failure to comply with SEVIS requirements can lead to termination of status, visa revocation, or future difficulties when applying for U.S. immigration benefits.

For this reason, understanding SEVIS obligations is just as important as maintaining academic performance.

How USPassportApplicationOnline.com Helps Students

Although USPassportApplicationOnline.com does not operate SEVIS or process student visas, it provides clear, educational resources to help students and exchange visitors understand the broader U.S. visa process.
The platform offers:

• Explanations of SEVIS and its connection to F-1, J-1, and M-1 visas,

• Guidance on preparing visa documentation such as Form DS-160 and Form I-20,

• Tips for maintaining SEVIS compliance during studies,

• Practical advice on travel, re-entry, and documentation updates.

By providing transparent information, USPassportApplicationOnline.com helps international students prepare more effectively and avoid common errors that can lead to visa delays or compliance issues.

Why SEVIS Is Important

SEVIS plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the U.S. student and exchange visitor system. It ensures that students and schools comply with immigration laws while promoting legitimate educational and cultural exchange.
The system helps:

• Strengthen national security through verified records,

• Support institutions in managing foreign student data,

• Facilitate communication between agencies and schools,

• Protect lawful students from unintentional status violations.

Ultimately, SEVIS is more than a database — it is a cornerstone of the U.S. educational immigration system, balancing openness to global learning with responsible oversight.

Conclusion

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is essential for managing international education in the United States. It keeps track of every student and exchange visitor’s journey — from visa approval to graduation or program completion.

Through USPassportApplicationOnline.com, applicants can better understand how SEVIS fits into the overall visa process and what responsibilities come with maintaining status in the U.S.

By staying informed and compliant, students and exchange visitors can focus on what matters most — learning, collaboration, and building a successful international experience in the United States.