Understanding SEVIS Program and Session Dates

Last updated: July 20, 2020

30 Days Before Program Start Date	Program Start Date	Initial Session Start	Session End Date	Next Session Start Date	SESSION END DATE	PROGRAM END DATE
Earliest new or initial student can arrive	Report date	Date classes begin at the school for the first session for which the student is expected to enroll	Date classes end for the session	Date classes begin at the school for the next session for which the student is expected to enroll	Date classes end for next session	Date program of study ends
Student can use this time to get settled – find place to live, open bank account, etc.	Cannot be more than 30 days before classes start Date orientation or required activities start – example: teaching assistant training	Student is in class or working on thesis/ dissertation Enrolled as full time student under F/M regulations	Student begins break period	Student is in class or working on thesis/ dissertation Enrolled as full time student under F/M regulations	Student begins break period	Expected date the student will meet all degree requirements Does not include post-completion optional practical training

All program and session dates entered in SEVIS must correspond to your school’s academic calendar.

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