Schools certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) are an important part of the international student process. Officials, including leadership, at these schools have many responsibilities. As president of an SEVP-certified school, you should know what you and your school are responsible for to maintain certification.

To lawfully enroll F and/or M students, your school must be SEVP-certified. Being certified means that your school has submitted a Form I–17, “Petition for Approval of School for Attendance by Nonimmigrant Student,” and received approval to enroll students. Part of your responsibility as president during the certification process includes nominating designated school officials (DSOs), including the principal designated school official, on the Form I–17A, “Record of Designated School Officials.” Your signature on this form certifies that each nominee is an employee of the school, qualified for the position, and will be provided the resources and training needed to perform responsibilities. You need DSOs to issue Forms I–20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” which nonimmigrant students need to apply for a visa to enter the United States.

Maintaining SEVP certification is an important obligation. DSOs must update your school’s information on the Form I–17 so it is always current. If any of the school’s information changes, your DSOs need to file an update to the Form I-17. Keeping information updated will make the recertification process easier.

If you lead a school that is interested in SEVP certification, watch SEVP’s tutorial “A Guide to Completing the Form I–17” to learn more about required information and how to complete the form. You can also visit our Schools Portal to learn more about SEVP certification and to find helpful resources.