Designated school officials (DSOs) are school employees dedicated to helping F and M students at their school maintain their nonimmigrant status. “Ask a DSO” is a series with advice from DSOs on the different situations F and M students may encounter and for which they need to be prepared.

Your DSO is an essential resource while you study in the United States. Your DSO must authorize or recommend many of the actions you may take while you are here. Without this authorization or recommendation, you could risk violation of the terms of your visa, which would result in losing your student status. Your DSO is your primary source for information on federal rules and regulations as well as advice on how to maintain student status. This knowledge will help you navigate your way through many academic and nonimmigrant issues. Your DSO must keep your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) updated and accurate to truly reflect your participation in your program of study, and cannot do this without your help.

You must talk to your DSO if any of the following situations apply to you:

• Changing your major, program, degree or educational level
• Transferring to a new school
• Taking annual vacation
• Taking a leave of absence
• Traveling outside of the United States
• Moving to a new address
• Changing your name
• Working in the United States
• Requesting a program extension
• Having trouble maintaining status or need to take a reduced course load
• Having a Terminated SEVIS record or other discrepancies on your SEVIS record
• Wanting to participate in a study abroad program
• Having trouble applying for a driver’s license
• Having any other questions related to your program of study and time studying in the United States

For a student to do any of these things lawfully, a DSO has to be informed. Your DSO can explain any legal issues that might apply to your plans and can give you practical information that can make any of these changes easier.

Your DSO is a great source of information about immigration regulations, but also your school’s policies and procedures. We encourage you to take advantage of this valuable resource.

Contact your DSO or the Student and Exchange Visitor Program Response Center at 703-603-3400 if you need further guidance.