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F-1 Student

If you are an F-1 undergraduate student, change of major is permitted and very normal! Sometimes you may start your studies with an undeclared major. Alternatively, you may decide to change your original major or even add a second major. Typically you will work with your advisor or department to submit a request to change your program of study.

If you are an F-1 graduate student and you decide to change your program of study, please contact ISSS. Unlike undergraduate students, this is considered a new degree program and more documentation may be needed to update your I-20.

When you change your major, ISSS is automatically notified. Our office will then update your electronic SEVIS record. However, we do not automatically issue a new I-20. Instead, we recommend that you wait and request an updated document when you next travel outside the United States.

To request a new I-20 reflecting your change of major

  1. Login to your InterLink account
    1. Click on the blue login button. Login with your Miami unique ID and password.
    2. Navigate to “F-1 Student Services” located on the left side of the menu.
  2. Complete the e-form “Travel Signature Request.”
    • Answer “yes” to the question about whether you have changed your major.

We will issue a new I-20 and email it to your Miami address.

J-1 Student

Change of major is problematic for all J-1 students.

If you are a J-1 student, regardless of whether you are a undergraduate, graduate, or even non-degree student, change of major can be problematic due to government regulations. Please consult with an ISSS advisor before taking action.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have changed my major but ISSS says they can’t update my form. Why?

Check your BannerWeb account to make sure that your new major is reflected in the university system. Please also make sure that your change of major has already taken effect and isn’t effective in a future semester.

I have added or changed my minor. Does my document need updated?

No, the government does not require that minors be listed on DS-2019 and I-20 forms.

International Students and Scholars

ISSS Requests

International students and scholars can submit a variety of requests to ISSS via InterLink. 

Access InterLink

Campus Community

Campus Community allows to students to find each other based shared country, interests, or other information, ask questions or share info in the forums, learn about upcoming events, and more! 

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Sign-Up for Email Updates

International students and scholars will automatically receive communications from ISSS. Others are welcome to sign up to receive emails and communications from our office. 

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