A single job loss has pushed an F-1 student into deep uncertainty. Months of planning in the US have been disrupted. The student is now exploring a university transfer to protect legal status and future academic plans.
The F-1 visa holder on STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) recently shared the experience. The situation reflects stress faced by many Indian students. Losing employment has activated the OPT unemployment clock. SEVIS records remain linked to a university no longer associated with the student.
Admission has already been secured at another US university starting in July. However, a preferred institution has not yet responded. To remain in valid F-1 visa status, an early SEVIS transfer to the backup university is being considered.
Concerns remain if the preferred university offers admission later. Uncertainty exists over whether SEVIS can be transferred again before classes begin. Such decisions involve timing risks that could affect lawful stay and academic continuity.
SEVIS transfers are managed by university officials, not students. A record can move more than once with coordination between institutions. The major worry is that once SEVIS is released during STEM OPT, work authorisation ends immediately.
If transfer timing or programme start dates do not align, F-1 status may be lost. With increased oversight by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), OPT-related moves now carry higher risk, adding to anxiety among F-1 visa holders.
