International Student Terminology
SEVIS: Student and Exchange Visitor Information System:
An internet-based application that facilitates timely electronic reporting and monitoring of international students and exchange visitors, as well as their dependents, in the United States. This application enables schools and program sponsors to transmit electronic information to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State throughout a student's or exchange visitor's program in the United States.
Principle Designated School Official (PDSO):
Serve as the primary point of contact with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program on any issues that relate to school bona fides or compliance with regulations. Administer the F/M program at the school, keep the school information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) up to date, manage DSOs, oversee the management of student records, and respond to SEVIS-generated alerts. Submit school certification and recertification packages.
DSO: Designated School Official (DSO):
A regularly employed member of the school administration designated by the head of a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified school to provide recommendations to F and/or M students enrolled at the school regarding maintenance of nonimmigrant status, and to support timely and complete record keeping and reporting to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
VISA:
A document issued by the Department of Homeland Security that enables a student or exchange visitor to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter the United States. Students need either an F-1 or M-1 visa to enroll in U.S. programs of study.
F-1/I-20 Record:
F-1 is the most common immigration status for degree seeking international students. Prospective F-1 students will receive a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) document from the school which they will use to apply for an F-1 visa at a US consulate or embassy. F-1 students are then admitted to the United States in F-1 status to study and must attend school full time except during their vacation break.
International Student:
In most cases, when we speak about “international students” we are referring to F-1 student visa holders. However, there are many legal non-immigrant students who identify as international students or part of the international community for various reasons. Permanent residents are part of Trident Technical College’s international population.
Non-Immigrant Status:
This status is for people who enter the U.S. on a temporary basis – whether for tourism, business, temporary work or study. Once a person has entered the U.S. in nonimmigrant status, they are restricted to the activity or reason for which they were allowed entry. Some people may have more than one visa in their passport, but they can only be admitted into the U.S. in one type of non-immigrant status at a time. Most non-immigrant visas are issued only to applicants who can demonstrate their intentions to return to their home country.
Immigrant Status:
This is for people who live permanently in the United States. Synonymous terms for immigrant status are: permanent resident, immigrant, green card holder and resident alien.