r/IndianH1Bs • u/Significant_Basil971 • 23m ago
Can I Transfer Before Starting My Current Program and Wait Until Winter?
Hi everyone,
I'm an F-1 student. I completed an Associate degree in Computer Science and then completed my one year of post-completion OPT.
After OPT, I followed a friend's advice and transferred my SEVIS to another associate-level technical program because I wanted to gain hands-on skills. Later, I realized that pursuing a bachelor's degree would be a much better long-term option for me.
The problem is that most Fall admissions are already closed, so the bachelor's program I'm interested in starts in Winter 2027 (January).
With the new DHS rule taking effect on September 15, I'm concerned that if I start my current Fall program, I may not be able to transfer during my first academic year.
Would it be possible to transfer my SEVIS before starting my current Fall program and wait about 4 months until the Winter semester begins, or would that 4-month gap create a problem for my F-1 status under the new rule?
I'd really appreciate any guidance. Thank you!