Designated School Official (DSO)

Job title: Designated School Official (DSO)

About the Role

Designated School Official (DSO) is a federally authorized role responsible for maintaining SEVP compliance and supporting international students on F-1 visas. The DSO serves as the primary point of contact for international students, maintains SEVIS records, issues and transfers Forms I-20, and facilitates CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, and various program changes. The role also advises students on visa regulations, employment authorization, travel, and government processes, while collaborating with campus partners to promote international student success.

What You'll Do

• Maintain accurate SEVIS records and ensure ongoing compliance with SEVP regulations.
• Issue and transfer Forms I-20; authorize Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and recommend OPT and STEM OPT extensions; process program extensions, reduced course loads, school transfers, and changes of educational level.
• Advise students on visa regulations, status maintenance, employment authorization, travel, visa renewals, and other immigration-related matters; assist with Social Security and DMV documentation.
• Serve as primary contact for international students; respond to compliance inquiries; collaborate with faculty, Registrar's Office, Financial Aid, and other campus partners to promote international student success.
• Assist with orientations, workshops, and outreach programs to raise regulatory awareness and student engagement.
• Monitor student enrollment to ensure regulatory compliance; manage multiple priorities with strong organizational skills.
• Travel approximately 30% to instructional sites and graduate intensives in South Carolina, Texas, Florida, and other locations as needed to support international student orientations, workshops, and immigration advising.

What We're Looking For

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum of two years of experience in international student services, immigration advising, or a closely related higher education role.
• U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as required by federal regulations.
• Working knowledge of F-1 student visa regulations, SEVIS, and SEVP; ability to interpret and apply complex federal regulations.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information systems; experience with Banner, Workday, Terra Dotta, Sunapsis, VIA, or similar systems is preferred.
• A commitment to quality relationships, warmth, excellence, and Christ-like service; dedication to the academic and Christ-centered mission of Anderson University.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Banner, Workday, Terra Dotta, Sunapsis, VIA, or similar systems.