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SEVIS & I-901 Fee

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a government database used to administer the F, J, and M visa programs through approved institutions and sponsors. This system is maintained by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State.

The information entered into the SEVIS database is used to create immigration documents and to meet reporting requirements. The International Services Office (ISO) is responsible for maintaining records in the SEVIS database on behalf of the University of Rochester

I-901 SEVIS Fee

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) requires payment of the I-901 fee for all new SEVIS records prior to the visa interview or travel to the US. Currently, this fee is $350 for F-1 Student or $220 for J-1 Exchange Visitor applicants, which is payable online.

Generally, all new applicants are subject to this fee. Individuals requesting an immigration transfer to the University who already hold an active SEVIS record from another sponsor do NOT need to pay again. F-2 and J-2 dependents are not subject to the fee either.

The fee must be paid online and you will then be able to print a receipt to show proof of payment during the visa interview. An official receipt form will be mailed to you separately and should be kept with your other immigration documents.

Pay the fee at least 3 days prior to your visa interview, or prior to your travel to the United States, if you are not required to have a visa. Many consulates require that the SEVIS fee be paid before you are able to schedule an appointment for the visa.

You will need information from the I-20 or DS-2019 to complete the I-901 form, including:

  • Your SEVIS ID—The SEVIS ID is a 9-digit number beginning with “N,” in the upper right-hand corner of the form.
  • The University’s school code or program number—The F-1 school code is in section 2 of the I-20; the J-1 program number is in section 2 of the DS-2019.

Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s I-901 SEVIS fee page for more information about who pays the fee, how to pay the fee, how to request refunds, and more.