The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is seeking public comment on draft policy guidance on bridge programs and conditional admission. SEVP values feedback from the public and seeks their input in policy development. Your feedback helps us to better understand your areas of concern and provides a forum for us to consider all relevant information.

What is a Bridge Program and Conditional Admission?

Many schools have developed programs of study to support students who meet many, but not all, standards of admission to a degree program. These bridge programs are designed to “bridge” the gap between the student’s lacked proficiencies and the full degree program. These programs raise questions for how SEVP should adjudicate these types of programs. Additionally, they also raise questions regarding Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” issuance in the context of students who do not meet all standards of admission for a particular program of study.

In some cases, designated school officials have issued Forms I-20 to students for a program of study for which the student has not met all standards of admission. This practice is known as “conditional admission.” The student is conditionally admitted to a degree program upon completion of the lacked proficiencies—and is issued the Form I-20 for the degree program on that basis.

How to Comment on Bridge Programs and Conditional Admission Draft Guidance

SEVP is issuing this draft policy guidance for adjudicators to provide its stakeholders the opportunity to comment on these policies. Visit SEVP Guidance: Opportunity for Stakeholder Feedback to download the draft guidance. To comment on the guidance, e-mail SEVPFeedback@ice.dhs.gov with the subject line ”Bridge Programs and Conditional Admission.” SEVP will consider feedback on these issues from May 23, 2013 to June 14, 2013.