SEVIS is the government database that tracks F, M and J students and exchange visitors. Your school (or J program sponsor) keeps your record. When you arrive, the school must mark you as arrived and enrolled. If it does not do this in time, your record can end, and you would be out of status.
New F-1 and M-1 students may enter the US no earlier than 30 days before the program start date on the I-20. J-1 sponsors set their own dates on the DS-2019.
Find the email from your school's international office (or J-1 sponsor). It says how to check in: an online form, an in-person visit, or both.
Have ready: passport, visa, your I-94 printout, I-20 or DS-2019, your US address and phone number.
Complete it in your first week, and in any case before the deadline your school gives.
Go to orientation. Many schools do the check-in there.
Register for classes as a full-time student.
F-2 and J-2 family members check in too, with their own documents.
DSO (Designated School Official) for F-1 and M-1.
RO or ARO (Responsible Officer) for J-1.
These people are your official link to the government. Ask them before you work, travel, drop classes, change programs or move.
After check-in: the 10-day rule
Tell your DSO or RO within 10 days if you change:
Your program, major or level.
Arriving late without telling the school. If you will be late, email the DSO first.
Skipping check-in because classes have not started.
Dropping below full time without permission from the DSO.
Giving the airport hotel as your address and not updating it.