In certain cases, J-1 students may be eligible to transfer from Brown in order continue their studies with a different sponsor. In order to be eligible for a transfer:

• The student must currently be in valid J-1 status
• The student MUST be accepted by the new sponsor for participation in their J-1 student program (consult with an international advisor at the new institution for confirmation)
• The student MUST be pursuing the same program objectives (in particular, the same field of study) at the new sponsor
• The student MUST request the transfer before the expiration of their current Form DS-2019
• The must MUST follow the transfer instructions detailed below.

Special Notes

Non-degree students in J-1 status are limited to a maximum of 24 months inclusive of time spent at all sponsors. Non-degree students are ineligible to transfer if they will be engaged in degree study at their new sponsor. In most cases, changing from J-1 non-degree to a J-1 degree program requires obtaining a new DS-2019, departing the U.S. (and applying for a new J-1 visa), and re-entering as a J-1 degree student.

Degree students in J-1 status may transfer to a new sponsor to continue study at the same, or at a higher, educational level (such as when a master's student changes to a PhD program at another school). However, the subject matter or field of study must be the same or highly similar. Degree students should consult with an advisor at both Brown and the new J-1 institution to ensure transfer eligibility in these situations.

Log in to your ISSS Gateway portal to begin the SEVIS Transfer Out request.

Upload the following to the request at least 10 business days before your requested transfer date:

• Admission letter from new school indicating term of admission
• I-94 record showing most recent entry to U.S.
• Transfer-in form from other school (if applicable) 

Please be sure to consult with a J-1 advisor at both Brown and the transfer-in school to ensure a seamless transition. Unlike F-1 transfers, the J-1 transfer process does not allow any gaps between sponsors. For example, if Brown releases your J-1 SEVIS record on June 30, your new sponsor must be willing to sponsor you effective July 1.