F-1 Change of Major
International students in F-1 status must always maintain accurate academic information in their SEVIS record and Form I-20. If you plan to change your major, or add a second major, notify the Office of International Services by submitting a request to change your major so that we may update your SEVIS record and I-20 accordingly.
Please note that OIS cannot update your SEVIS record or print an I-20 reflecting the new academic information until you have been admitted to the new program and the admission is reflected in the university system.
Steps to request a change of major on your I-20 Heading link
Select your current education level to view your steps and required documents.
Graduate Students
- Inform the Graduate College and complete their Change of Degree Program Form.
- Submit the Change of Major E-Form in my OIS. This can only be done after the change of major has been completed within the Graduate College. If the change or addition of major will require you to study beyond the end date currently listed on your I-20, you will need to submit evidence of funding for the additional time needed to complete the new academic program, up to one academic year.
- Collect and sign your new I-20. When the change of major request is complete, OIS will contact you with options for receiving your new I-20. You may now begin studies in your new academic program.
Undergraduate Students
- Meet with your academic advisor and department to learn how to change your major.
- Submit the Change of Major E-Form in my OIS. This can only be done after the change of major has been completed and is reflected in the university system. If the change or addition of major will require you to study beyond the end date currently listed on your I-20, you will need to submit evidence of funding for the additional time needed to complete the new academic program, up to one academic year.
- Collect and sign your new I-20. When the change of major request is complete, OIS will contact you with options for receiving your new I-20. You may now begin studies in your new academic program.
FAQs Heading link
Here are some frequently asked questions about the F-1 change of major process.
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How long will it take to change the major on my I-20?
Students should submit the Change of Major E-Form in myOIS at least one month prior to the semester when the change will go in effect. Since changing a major also requires approval by the academic department or college, students should take into consideration the time involved in gaining those approvals first.
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Can I begin studying in my new major and update my SEVIS record and I-20 later?
No. You should request a change of major with OIS prior to the term in which the new major goes into effect on your University record.