Before submitting a request for a Change of Major I-20, meet with your academic advisor to discuss your intended new major. Your advisor will help you understand how the change may affect your degree requirements, academic progress, and expected program completion date.

After meeting with your academic advisor, submit the Declaration of Major/Minor/Program Change Request through the Enrollment Services website. This form officially updates your academic record with the new major before an updated Form I-20 can be issued.

In order to submit the application for extension, you will need the following documents:

• Evidence of financial support: You must provide evidence of readily available funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for up to one academic year. Be sure to review the University’s Cost of Attendance information to calculate your anticipated fees and expenses.

Acceptable documents include:

• Recent bank statements (within 3 months)
• Letter from a bank summarizing the available account balance
• Scholarship/assistantship letters indicating award amount
• Financial guarantee letters from government or organizations
• Loan approval letter

NOTE: All financial documents must be:

• Written in English or accompanied by an official translation
• No more than 3 months old

Affidavit of Support: If your studies are funded by anyone other than yourself, you must complete the SPU Affidavit of Support associated with your program level:

• • All other Graduate Programs
  • Undergraduate Programs

Submit the application for Program Information Update through the International Student Portal. Failure to obtain a Change in Program I-20 within 21 days of the change taking place may result in loss of legal status. (accordion)

To apply through the ISP:

1. Log into the International Student Portal
2. Click on Student Request Center
3. Complete the Program Information Update request and upload all required documents
4. Hit the Submit button

Upon submitting a complete application, a designated school official (DSO) at the CGL will evaluate your eligibility and issue an updated Form I-20 reflecting your new program and revised end date, if appropriate. The I-20 will be uploaded to the international student portal.

Be sure to download and review the I-20 for accuracy before signing it. Notify the CGL immediately if you identify any errors.

It's important to consult with the CGL for guidance on the specific procedures and requirements for extending your program. We will be able to provide you with accurate information based on your individual circumstances and SPU policies.

Federal regulations require that your SEVIS record accurately reflect your current academic program. When you change your major, your SEVIS record and Form I-20 must be updated to show the new field of study and CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) code.

Yes. However, the change in major must be reflected in your SEVIS within 21 days of the change taking place.

Possibly. Your CPT or OPT authorization must relate directly to your major. If your new major is in a different academic field, you may need to adjust your future CPT or OPT plans to ensure they align with your new program of study. Always consult the Center for Global Learning before applying for practical training.

Yes. Even if you are staying within the same degree level (for example, changing from Biology to Chemistry), updated financial documentation is required for the new I-20. Federal regulations require schools to verify that F-1 students have sufficient funding each time an I-20 is reissued for a new program.

A change in degree level is considered a new program. You must be admitted to the new program, provide full proof of funding, and submit “New Degree Level” request through the ISP. Your SEVIS record will be updated accordingly.

Once all required documentation is received, the Center for Global Learning typically processes the change and issues the new I-20 within 5–10 business days. You will receive an email once your new I-20 is ready.

It's important to consult with the CGL for guidance on the specific procedures and requirements for extending your program. We will be able to provide you with accurate information based on your individual circumstances and SPU policies.

You may contact the Center for Global Learning at iss@saintpeters.edu or visit our office during regular advising hours. CGL advisors can help you understand how the change may affect your SEVIS record, work eligibility, and future plans.