Embedded Files
If you are a current SFBC student in valid F-1 status and you have been admitted to a new educational program at SFBC, you need to complete a change of education level form.
Change Your Education Level
Check your eligibility:
You must be in valid F-1 status at South Florida Bible College (SFBC).
You must be formally admitted to a new program of study at SFBC.
You must request the change of education level within 60 days of the following:
Current students: completing your current program.
OPT students: the expiration of your EAD card.
Your new program of study must start within 5 months of the following:
Current students: completing your current program.
OPT students: the expiration of your EAD card.
If you have met the eligibility requirements, you must submit the Change of Education Level form in Populi.
Once you have completed your current program, ISSD will create the Change of Education Level I-20 for the new program and email it to you.
Summer in between programs
Travel:
You can travel internationally during the change of education level process.
You must have your I-20 for the new program when you re-enter the United States.
You can return to the United States once you have your I-20 for your new program. You do not need to wait until 30 days before the program start date.
Visa:
If your F-1 visa is valid, you can use it to re-enter the United States. You do not need to apply for a new visa when you change education levels.
Staying in the US:
If you complete the change of education level process within the required time frame, you are allowed to stay in the United States during the summer. You do not need to depart the U.S.
Work eligibility:
Your off-campus work eligibility (CPT) at your current degree level ends on the date that your change of education level occurs.
Continuing students: Per F-1 rules, you are eligible to work on campus once you have your new I-20 because you are considered a continuing student.
OPT students: You are eligible to work on OPT until the expiration date of your EAD card or the date your change of education level is processed, whichever is sooner.
After you change education levels, show your new I-20 to your on-campus employer to update your employment records.
common questions about changing education levels
When can I schedule my change of education level?
You can schedule your change of education level in advance.
The change of education level must happen during your 60-day grace period, after you complete your current education level.
When will my I-20 be ready?
Your I-20 can be prepared once all these conditions are met:
You have submitted a complete change of education level form and
Your new program appears in the college Populi student profile and
Your current program has ended
Please allow for normal ISSD processing times.
What are the benefits of changing my education level?
You do not need to pay the SEVIS fee again.
You can stay in the U.S. or travel internationally during the change of education level process.
You can return to the U.S. more than 30 days before your program starts. Check the information on your new I-20; it should have a new start date, list your new program and say “continued attendance.” You will need a travel signature in order to return.
You may be eligible to apply for off-campus employment benefits such as CPT earlier.
Can I stay in the United States during the summer?
Yes. If you have maintained your F-1 status and have been approved for the change of education level, you can stay in the U.S.
Is this all I need to do to change my education level?
This information pertains to your immigration status only. Please follow your new program’s instructions to meet any academic requirements as necessary.
Page updated
Report abuse