Understanding the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) in the USA

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is a vital component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that oversees the entry and stay of international students and exchange visitors in the United States. Through its management of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), SEVP ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws while facilitating educational and cultural exchange.

What Is SEVP?

SEVP is responsible for certifying schools and programs that enroll nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. It manages SEVIS, a web-based system that tracks and monitors information on:

F-1 and M-1 students: Individuals pursuing academic and vocational studies.
J-1 exchange visitors: Participants in exchange programs for purposes such as teaching, studying, or receiving training.
SEVP-certified schools: Institutions authorized to enroll nonimmigrant students.
Exchange visitor program sponsors: Organizations designated by the U.S. Department of State to administer exchange programs.

By maintaining and analyzing this data, SEVP helps ensure that only legitimate students and exchange visitors gain entry to the U.S., thereby supporting national security and the integrity of the U.S. immigration system .

SEVIS: The Backbone of SEVP

SEVIS is a critical tool for monitoring the status of international students and exchange visitors. It allows:

Schools and sponsors to issue Forms I-20 (for F and M students) and DS-2019 (for J-1 exchange visitors), which are necessary for visa applications.
Designated School Officials (DSOs) and Responsible Officers (ROs) to update student and visitor records, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
DHS and other agencies to track and verify the status of nonimmigrants during their stay in the U.S.

The implementation of SEVIS was mandated by the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA) of 1996 and further reinforced by the Patriot Act after the September 11 attacks, aiming to enhance the monitoring of nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors .

Types of Visas Under SEVP

F-1 Visa (Academic Students)

The F-1 visa is for individuals pursuing academic studies at SEVP-certified institutions. To obtain this visa, students must:

Be enrolled in a full-time academic program.
Demonstrate proficiency in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency.
Have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.

M-1 Visa (Vocational Students)

The M-1 visa is for students enrolled in non-academic or vocational programs. Requirements include:

Enrollment in a full-time vocational program.
Proficiency in English or enrollment in courses leading to English proficiency.
Evidence of financial support for the duration of the program.

J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitors)

The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in exchange programs designated by the U.S. Department of State. These programs aim to promote the exchange of knowledge and skills in fields such as education, arts, and sciences. J-1 visa holders must:

Be sponsored by a designated exchange program.
Comply with the program’s terms and conditions.
Maintain health insurance coverage that meets specific requirements .

The Role of SEVP-Certified Schools

SEVP-certified schools play a crucial role in the program’s success. They are responsible for:

Issuing Forms I-20 to eligible students.
Reporting student enrollment and status changes to SEVIS.
Ensuring compliance with federal regulations governing nonimmigrant students.

Schools must undergo a certification process and periodic recertification to maintain their SEVP status .

Recent Developments

In May 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard University’s certification to enroll international students under SEVP. This decision affected over 6,700 international students and sparked legal challenges. A federal judge issued an injunction preventing the revocation, citing concerns over due process and constitutional rights. This incident underscores the ongoing scrutiny and evolving policies surrounding international student programs in the U.S.

Conclusion

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program is integral to the U.S. educational landscape, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and culture. Through SEVP and SEVIS, the program ensures that international students and exchange visitors comply with U.S. laws while enriching the academic and cultural fabric of the nation. As policies continue to evolve, staying informed about SEVP regulations and requirements is essential for prospective students and institutions alike.