International Student (F-1) Transfer Information
According to Code of Federal Regulations (8 CFR 214.2), an F-1 student who is maintaining status may transfer to another institution. It is important to be aware that an F-1 student is not permitted to remain in the United States when transferring between schools or programs unless the student will begin classes at the transfer school within 5 months of transferring out of the current school or within 5 months of the program completion date on the I-20. In the case of a F-1 student authorized to engage in post-completion optional practical training (OPT), the student must be able to resume classes within 5 months of transferring out of the school that recommended OPT or the date OPT authorization ends, whichever is earlier.
An F-1 student not pursuing a full course of study at the school he or she was last authorized to attend is ineligible for school transfer and must apply for reinstatement or may depart the country and return as an initial entry in a new F-1 non-immigrant status.
Whether you are transferring from or to Montgomery County Community College, you will find the procedures listed below:
How to transfer TO Montgomery County Community College
- Submit a completed International Student Application.
- Inform your international advisor at your current school that you are transferring to MCCC. Your international student advisor must complete the Transfer Recommendation Form and mail it directly to the Office of Admissions and Records.
- Submit a copy of your current I-20 with your International Student Application.
- After all materials are received, you will receive a letter of admittance from MCCC. This letter will indicate that you may come to the Office of Admissions and Records to pick up your new MCCC I-20.
- When you arrive at MCCC, you must bring your passport, visa, I-94, Driver's license, and/or Social Security Card to pick up your new I-20.
- If you will be traveling outside of the United States before you attend MCCC, you will be issued a new I-20 before you leave the US. Please notify the Office of Admissions by letter with the date you will leave, your destination, and when you will return. It will also be helpful to have you registered for classes before you leave.
Special Transfer Topics
Changing Your Mind
If you change your mind and decide not to transfer, it is important to inform your international student advisor.
Transfer Deadlines and Timelines
If a student completes a course of study (or OPT), the student is eligible for transfer through the end of the 60-day grace period. Be aware of the 5 month start-date limit to begin studies at your new school. You cannot remain in the US if you are transferring to another institution and classes do not begin within 5 months of your transfer.
