Change of Level/Program

• Overview

  Any changes to your program or degree level must be reported to VIS. It is important that you discuss any intentions to change your degree level or program of study with your International Student Advisor before making any changes, as unauthorized changes may jeopardize your immigration status.

• Change of Level

  Change of Degree Level

  If you move from one educational level to another (from IEC to bachelor's, bachelor's to master's, etc.) you must have your Form I-20 updated to reflect your new level.

  You should also apply for a change of level if you will pursue an additional degree at the same educational level at Stony Brook (for example, a second master's degree).

  If you are currently registered in classes or about to complete post-completion OPT, your request for a change of level must be processed within 60 days of completing your current program OR within 60 days of completing OPT.

  You are not eligible for a change of level if your new program will not begin within 5 months.

  1. Speak to your VIS advisor

  Inform your VIS Advisor of your expected graduation date (or if you are on OPT, your last day of employment).

  Note: If you are currently in your OPT period, remember that your OPT authorization will be canceled on the first day of your new program.

  2. Request an updated I-20

  Complete the "Change of Degree Level" request in accessVIS, providing sufficient proof of funding for the duration of your new academic level.

  3. Receive your updated I-20

  You will be issued an updated I-20 with your new degree program. Be sure to print and sign this document.

  You do not need to return the signed copy to VIS.

  NOTE: Changes in degree level cannot be made after the first day of classes unless prior approval has been granted by the Graduate School.

  Employment Restrictions

  If you are currently on a period of authorized post-completion OPT and wish to begin studying at another level, you must cease any employment by the first day of classes.

  Authorization to engage in OPT is automatically terminated when the student transfers to another school or begins studying at another educational level.

• Change of Program

  Change of Program

  Students studying in the U.S. on F-1 status must be registered full-time in the program of study indicated on their Form I-20.

  If you wish to change your  academic program, you must request a new Form I-20 reflecting the change.

  Undergraduate Students

  1. Complete the 'Change of Major/Minor' form

  Complete the Change of Major/Minor declaration form and submit it to the new academic department for approval.

  2. Submit the completed form to the Registrar

  Once you receive the declaration form back from your new department, submit the completed form to the Registrar for processing.

  3. Receive your new I-20 from VIS

  The Registrar will notify Visa & Immigration Services of any changes, additions or withdrawal from a major or minor, and a new Form I-20 will be issued if necessary.

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  Graduate Students

  1. Complete the 'Change of Academic Program Request' in accessVIS

  Complete the 'Change of Academic Program (Master's/PhD) Request' in accessVIS. You must upload new financial documentation.

  2. Wait for your new department to review your request

  Upon submission of the request in accessVIS, an email will be routed to your new academic department for approval.

  3. Receive your new I-20 from VIS

  A new Form I-20 will be issued if necessary.