Terminology

Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) 

Individuals at your Program Sponsor who are authorized to update and maintain DS-2019 records in SEVIS are AROs. An ARO can sign a DS-2019 for travel and advise on J-1 status requirements and benefits, such as full-time enrollment or employment authorization. If the University of Arizona is not your Program Sponsor, then the AROs at International Student Services cannot sign or update your DS-2019 record. 

Department of State (DOS) 

The Department of State manages exchange visitor programs and J-1 exchange visitors, and is responsible for visa issuance at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. 

Designated School Official (DSO) 

A DSO is an international student adviser authorized to update and maintain I-20 records in SEVIS. A DSO can sign an I-20 for travel and advise on F-1 status requirements and benefits, such as full-time enrollment or employment authorization. 

Program Sponsor 

A Program Sponsor is an institution, agency or organization that issues DS-2019s. They are responsible for providing opportunities for exchange visitors to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States. 

Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) 

SEVIS is a Department of Homeland Security online database for international student records. I-20 and DS-2019 records are issued and maintained through SEVIS. 

Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) 

SEVP is a Department of Homeland Security program that manages F-1 international students and the institutions that host international students through SEVIS. SEVP is responsible for ensuring that rules and regulations are followed by international students.