If your school participates in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), it is imperative that the records kept for each international student are completely accurate. Since these individuals are legal non-immigrants, their ability to stay in the United States is dependent on their having a complete and accurate SEVIS report. Designated School Officers must monitor and review the SEVIS information for each student on a regular basis. If changes need to be made or information is found to be inaccurate, there are specific steps to follow in order to update the report.
Making Changes To Student Information
If you find that a student’s SEVIS information is inaccurate, such as their student status or program dates, you have several means of correcting the information. On the student information page, you will see a list of links on the left hand side. Under the “Corrections” area, there will be several options to follow depending on the exact type of information that needs to be changed.
Typically you will be given multiple areas in which to update the information, as well as an area to make remarks regarding the change. It is very important that you document the reason for any SEVIS change. If the reason for the change is ever requested, you need to be able to describe why the change was necessary.
Other changes might need to be made if the student’s status is inaccurate. Using the “Record Corrections” option, you can made adjustments to the data as needed. Perhaps the student’s record shows as active but should instead reflect it to be in the initial stages. Or, maybe the student just transferred in and needs additional documentation. Student employment or changes in education level also need to be noted. Whatever the scenario may be, the SEVIS system allows for a multitude of changes that can easily be made by the Designated School Officer.
Changes Are Time Sensitive
Remember, the student’s ability to stay in the United States is heavily dependent on the accuracy of their SEVIS information. For most changes, you have a window of 30 days, if not sooner, to make adjustments. If inaccuracies are present on the report and are not corrected, it’s quite possible that the student’s SEVIS report will be automatically cancelled.
The legal processes for international students are complex and can have very serious ramifications if not correctly followed. If you have any questions about the SEVIS program and how to navigate it, call the FordMurray law office today.
