Mandatory Immigration (SEVIS) Check-In

All students in initial or transfer F-1 and J-1 status must complete Mandatory Immigration Check-in (MICI) to be registered in SEVIS. The International Student and Scholar Advising staff (ISSA) must receive and review your immigration documents and contact information, including address and telephone data, to register you as an active student in SEVIS. 

WHY? 

This process is necessary to maintain legal status in the United States.  Federal laws and regulations require nonimmigrant student information to be updated and maintained in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).

Failure to be registered in SEVIS will cause the student’s legal status in the U.S. to be terminated.  A terminated SEVIS record will prevent a student from working in the U.S., getting a driver’s license, and may result in immediate U.S. departure.

Failure to complete the final steps of MICI upon arrival will result in an academic ‘hold’ on the LionPATH record preventing future academic enrollment.  Once MICI is approved, the ‘hold’ will be removed by ISSA.

HOW?

You will check-in with International Student and Scholar Advising during International Student Orientation.  Part of Check-In is completed online in iStart. Part of Check-In is completed in Accounts Management

WHEN?

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE TO PENN STATE

  1. Government Regulations Training
  2. Emergency Contact Information 
  3. Document Uploads (you must have your student visa to complete this step)

COMPLETE UPON ARRIVAL TO CAMPUS

  1. I-94 Record and travel history
  2. Update Personal Information at accounts.psu.edu
  3. Submit Check-In for Review

WHO?

F-1 and J-1 students new to Penn State or returning students with a new initial SEVIS ID must complete MICI.  Students who have been approved for a change of status with USCIS must complete MICI upon approval of the new status.  Fulbright students, exchange students, and Intensive English students must complete MICI.  Continuing students who have the same SEVIS ID in their 2nd, 3rd, and future semesters do not need to complete the MICI process again unless a new SEVIS ID is issued.

HINT:  Graduate Assistants/Fellows:  Complete the SSN letter request at the same time!