Being nominated as a designated school official (DSO) at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school is a significant responsibility. As a DSO, you serve as a key point of contact between your institution, its F-1 and M-1 students and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Your role is essential to maintaining compliance with federal regulations while supporting the academic success and legal status of foreign students.

If you’re new to this role, you may be wondering where to begin. Fortunately, there are many resources to assist you.

Understand Your Role

Your primary duty is to support the success of your F-1 and M-1 students while also ensuring your school complies with SEVP regulations. This includes:

• Issuing and updating the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”.
• Reporting changes in student status or program information through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
• Keeping detailed student records.
• Ensuring your school is meeting certification and reporting standards.

You can read a full overview of DSO reporting requirements here.

Get to Know SEVIS

SEVIS is your main tool as a DSO. This system tracks and manages student information throughout their academic journey in the United States. You will use it to:

• Create and update student records.
• Issue Forms I-20.
• Report enrollment, address changes or status violations.

Start by logging in at sevis.ice.gov. If you're unsure how to navigate SEVIS, the SEVIS Help Hub offers detailed guides and training materials.

Keep Proper Student Records

Under 8 CFR 214.3(g), DSOs are required to maintain specific records for each student. These must be accessible in case of an audit or review by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Best practice is to maintain copies of admission documents, Forms I-20, financial statements and academic records. Schools must retain these files for at least three years after a student stops pursuing a full course of study. Learn more about your record-keeping obligations.

Bookmark the Resource Library

Study in the States has a Resource Library with downloadable tools, checklists and guidance. Highlights include:

• Resources for New DSOs
• SEVP School Certification Life Cycle
• Record Keeping Requirements

Stay Up to Date

SEVP-certified schools often have teams of DSOs, including a principal designated school official (PDSO) who can help guide you. You can also reach out to your SEVP field representative with school-specific questions.

Bookmark ICE.gov/SEVP and Study in the States to stay informed about policy updates and guidance.

Stepping into the role of DSO may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right tools and support, you will quickly become an essential resource for your institution and its F-1 and M-1 students. By staying informed and organized, you will help ensure both student success and institutional compliance.