SEVIS Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the SEVIS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 SEVIS Exam Format at a Glance
📚 SEVIS Topics to Study (31)
✍️ Sample SEVIS Questions & Answers
1. A school that loses its SEVP certification must notify current F-1 students of the loss within how many business days?
Upon loss of SEVP certification, schools are required to notify enrolled international students within 10 business days so students can take appropriate action.
2. Why is accurate data entry in SEVIS critical?
Accurate data entry in SEVIS is critical to ensure that international students and exchange visitors, as well as their sponsoring institutions, remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws. Errors can lead to serious consequences, including loss of student status, visa issues, or a school's inability to host international students.
3. How long must a SEVP-certified institution retain records related to F and M students after a student's program end date?
Institutions must retain records for at least three years after the student's program end date per SEVP regulations.
4. A DSO discovers an F-1 student's SEVIS record was not updated after the student changed their major 45 days ago. What is the correct course of action?
DSOs should correct SEVIS records as soon as an error is discovered and document the circumstances of the delay.
5. How often must schools update SEVIS records?
SEVIS regulations mandate that DSOs update student and exchange visitor records "immediately" or "within 21 days" for specific events, such as changes in enrollment status, address, or program completion. Timely updates are critical to ensure the accuracy of government records and to maintain the nonimmigrant's legal status. Delaying updates can lead to compliance violations and negative consequences for both the school and the student.
6. In Student and Exchange Visitor Information System Certification, what is the PRIMARY purpose of conducting an initial assessment?
The initial assessment establishes a baseline and identifies specific needs to guide subsequent decisions.