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The Form I-20, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, plays a crucial role in the journey of international students wishing to study in the United States. This document is issued by a designated school official (DSO) and serves as proof that a student has been accepted into a full-time academic program at an accredited institution. It contains essential information, including the student’s personal details, program of study, and financial requirements, which are necessary for obtaining an F-1 visa. The I-20 form also outlines the student's responsibilities, such as maintaining full-time enrollment and complying with immigration regulations. Additionally, it includes sections for employment authorizations, allowing students to engage in certain types of work under specific conditions. Understanding the significance of the I-20 form is vital, as it not only facilitates the visa application process but also helps maintain the student’s legal status while studying in the U.S. Furthermore, the form must be presented at various stages, including entry into the country and when applying for work authorization or re-entry after travel. Overall, the I-20 is more than just a piece of paper; it is a foundational document that supports the academic and professional aspirations of nonimmigrant students in the United States.

Preview - I 20 Form

Department of Homeland Security

I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

OMB NO. 1653-0038

 

 

SEVIS ID: N0004720633

SURNAME/PRIMARY NAME

GIVEN NAME

Class of Admission

PREFERRED NAME

 

PASSPORT NAME

 

F-1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COUNTRY OF BIRTH

 

COUNTRY OF CITIZENSHIP

 

 

 

 

 

DATE OF BIRTH

 

ADMISSION NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

ACADEMIC AND

 

 

 

 

FORM ISSUE REASON

 

LEGACY NAME

 

LANGUAGE

 

 

 

 

 

SCHOOL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

SCHOOL NAME

 

SCHOOL ADDRESS

 

 

SCHOOL OFFICIAL TO CONTACT UPON ARRIVAL

SCHOOL CODE AND APPROVAL DATE

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROGRAM OF STUDY

 

 

 

 

EDUCATION LEVEL

MAJOR 1

 

MAJOR 2

 

PROGRAM ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY NOTES

EARLIEST ADMISSION DATE

START OF CLASSES

PROGRAM START/END DATE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIALS

 

 

 

 

ESTIMATED AVERAGE COSTS FOR: 9 MONTHS

STUDENT'S FUNDING FOR: 9 MONTHS

 

Tuition and Fees

 

 

 

 

Living Expenses

 

 

 

 

Expenses of Dependents (0)

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

$

 

 

$

REMARKS

SCHOOL ATTESTATION

I certify under penalty of perjury that all information provided above was entered before I signed this form and is true and correct. I executed this form in the United States after review and evaluation in the United States by me or other officials of the school of the student's application, transcripts, or other records of courses taken and proof of financial responsibility, which were received at the school prior to the execution of this form. The school has determined that the above named student's qualifications meet all standards for admission to the school and the student will be required to pursue a full program of study as defined by 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6). I am a designated school official of the above named school and am authorized to issue this form.

X

DATE ISSUED

PLACE ISSUED

SIGNATURE OF:

 

 

STUDENT ATTESTATION

I have read and agreed to comply with the terms and conditions of my admission and those of any extension of stay. I certify that all information provided on this form refers specifically to me and is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I certify that I seek to enter or remain in the United States temporarily, and solely for the purpose of pursuing a full program of study at the school named above. I also authorize the named school to release any information from my records needed by DHS pursuant to 8 CFR 214.3(g) to determine my nonimmigrant status. Parent or guardian, and student, must sign if student is under 18.

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE OF:

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

NAME OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN

 

SIGNATURE

 

ADDRESS (city/state or province/country) DATE

ICE Form I-20 A-B (3/31/2018)

Page 1 of 3

Department of Homeland Security

I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

OMB NO. 1653-0038

 

 

SEVIS ID: N0004720633 (F-1)

NAME: Student Sample

EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATIONS

 

 

 

 

TYPE

FULL/PART-TIME

STATUS

START DATE

END DATE

CPT

PART TIME

APPROVED

01 JULY 2016

15 JULY 2016

 

 

 

 

 

EMPLOYER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TYPE

 

AUTHORIZATION DATES

 

CPT

 

01 JULY 2016 - 15 JULY 2016

 

EMPLOYER NAME

START DATE

END DATE

CITY & STATE

 

SEVP applied labs

01 JULY 2016

15 JULY 2016

Arlington, VA

 

 

 

 

 

CHANGE OF STATUS/CAP-GAP EXTENSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUTHORIZED REDUCED COURSE LOAD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT SESSION DATES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT SESSION START DATE

 

CURRENT SESSION END DATE

 

01 JUNE 2016

 

30 JUNE 2016

 

 

TRAVEL ENDORSEMENT

This page, when properly endorsed, may be used for re-entry of the student to attend the same school after a temporary absence from the United States. Each endorsement is valid for one year.

SCHOOL OFFICIAL

 

TITLE

 

SIGNATURE

 

DATE ISSUED

 

PLACE ISSUED

 

 

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ICE Form I-20 A-B (3/31/2018)

Page 2 of 3

Department of Homeland Security

I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

OMB NO. 1653-0038

 

 

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS

STUDENT ATTESTATION. You should read everything on this page carefully. Be sure that you understand the terms and conditions concerning your admission and stay in the United States as a nonimmigrant student before signing the student attestation on page 1 of the Form I-20 A-B. The law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.

FORM I-20. The Form I-20 (this form) is the primary document to show that you have been admitted to school in the United States and that you are authorized to apply for admission to the United States in F-1 class of admission. You must have your Form I-20 with you at all times. If you lose your Form I-20, you must request a new one from your designated school official (DSO) at the school named on your Form I-20.

VISA APPLICATION. You must give this Form I-20 to the U.S. consular officer at the time you apply for a visa (unless you are exempt from visa requirements). If you have a Form I-20 from more than one school, be sure to present the Form I-20 for the school you plan to attend. Your visa will include the name of that school, and you must attend that school upon entering the United States. You must also provide evidence of support for tuition and fees and living expenses while you are in the United States.

ADMISSION. When you enter the United States, you must present the following documents to the officer at the port of entry: 1) a Form I-20; 2) a valid F-1 visa(unless you are exempt from visa requirements); 3) a valid passport; and

4)evidence of support for tuition and fees and living expenses while you are in the United States. The agent should return all documents to you before you leave the inspection area.

REPORT TO SCHOOL NAMED ON YOUR FORM I-20 AND VISA. Upon your first entry to the United States, you must report to the DSO at the school named on your Form I-20 and your F-1 visa (unless you are exempt from visa requirements). If you decide to attend another school before you enter the United States, you must present a Form I-20 from the new school to a U.S. consular officer for a new F-1 visa that names the new school. Failure to enroll in the school, by the program start date on your Form I-20 may result in the loss of your student status and subject you to deportation.

EMPLOYMENT. Unlawful employment in the United States is a reason for terminating your F-1 status and deporting you from the United States. You may be employed on campus at your school. You may be employed off-campus in curricular practical training (CPT) if you have written permission from your DSO. You may apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for off-campus employment authorization in three circumstances: 1) employment with an international organization; 2) severe and unexpected economic hardship; and 3) optional practical training (OPT) related to your degree. You must have written authorization from USCIS before you begin work. Contact your DSO for details. Your spouse or child (F-2 classification) may not work in the United States

PERIOD OF STAY. You may remain in the United States while taking a full course of study or during authorized employment after your program. F-1 status ends and you are required to leave the United States on the earliest of the following dates: 1) the program end date on your Form I-20 plus 60 days; 2) the end date of your OPT plus 60 days; or 3) the termination of your program for any other reason. Contact your DSO for details.

EXTENSION OF PROGRAM. If you cannot complete the education program by the program end date on page 1 of your Form I-20, you should contact your DSO at least 15 days before the program end date to request an extension.

SCHOOL TRANSFER. To transfer schools, first notify the DSO at the school you are attending of your plan to transfer, then obtain a Form I-20 from the DSO at the school you plan to attend. Return the Form I-20 for the new school to the DSO at that school within 15 days after beginning attendance at the new school. The DSO will then report the transfer to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). You must enroll in the new school at the next session start date. The DSO at the new school must update your registration in SEVIS.

NOTICE OF ADDRESS. When you arrive in the United States, you must report your U.S. address to your DSO. If you move, you must notify your DSO of your new address within 10 days of the change of address. The DSO will update SEVIS with your new address.

REENTRY. F-1 students may leave the United States and return within a period of five months.To return, you must have: 1) a valid passport; 2) a valid F- 1 student visa (unless you are exempt from visa requirements); and 3) your Form I-20, page 2, properly endorsed for reentry by your DSO. If you have been out of the United States for more than five months, contact your DSO

AUTHORIZATION TO RELEASE INFORMATION BY SCHOOL. DHS requires your school to provide DHS with your name, country of birth, current address, immigration status, and certain other information on a regular basis or upon request. Your signature on the Form I-20 authorizes the named school to release such information from your records.

PENALTY. To maintain your nonimmigrant student status, you must: 1) remain a full-time student at your authorized school; 2) engage only in authorized employment; and 3) keep your passport valid. Failure to comply with these regulations will result in the loss of your student status and subject you to deportation.

INSTRUCTIONS TO SCHOOLS

Failure to comply with 8 CFR 214.3(k) and 8 CFR 214.4 when issuing Forms I- 20 will subject you and your school to criminal prosecution. If you issue this form improperly, provide false information, or fail to submit required reports, DHS may withdraw its certification of your school for attendance by nonimmigrant students.

ISSUANCE OF FORM I-20. DSOs may issue a Form I-20 for any nonimmigrant your school has accepted for a full course of study if that person:

1)plans to apply to enter the United States in F-1 status; 2) is in the United States as an F-1 nonimmigrant and plans to transfer to your school; or 3) is in the United States and will apply to change nonimmigrant status to F-1. DSOs may also issue the Form I-20 to the spouse or child (under the age of 21) of an F-1 student to use to enter or remain in the United States as an F-2 dependent. DSOs must sign where indicated at the bottom of page 1 of the Form I-20 to attest that the form is completed and issued in accordance with regulations.

ENDORSEMENT OF PAGE 2 FOR REENTRY. If there have been no substantive changes in information, DSOs may endorse page 2 of the Form I-20 for the student and/or the F-2 dependents to reenter the United States. If there have been substantive changes, the DSO should issue and sign a new Form I-20 that includes those changes.

RECORDKEEPING. DHS may request information concerning the student's immigration status for various reasons. DSOs should retain all evidence of academic ability and financial resources on which admission was based, until SEVIS shows the student's record completed or terminated.

AUTHORITY FOR COLLECTING INFORMATION. Authority for collecting the information on this and related student forms is contained in 8 U.S.C. 1101 and 1184. The Department of State and DHS use this information to determine eligibility for the benefits requested.The law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.

REPORTING BURDEN. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement collects this information as part of its agency mission under the Department of Homeland Security. The estimated average time to review the instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the needed data, and complete and review the collection of information is 30 minutes (.50 hours) per response. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to an information collection unless a form displays a currently valid OMB Control number. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: Office of the Chief Information Officer/Forms Management Branch, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 801 I Street NW Stop 5800, Washington, DC 20536- 5800. Do not send the form to this address.

ICE Form I-20 A-B (3/31/2018)

Page 3 of 3
▼ PDF

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The I-20 form certifies eligibility for nonimmigrant student status in the U.S.
Governing Law Regulated under 8 CFR 214.2(f) and 8 CFR 214.3.
SEVIS ID Each I-20 form includes a unique SEVIS ID number for tracking purposes.
Admission Type Students are typically admitted under the F-1 visa category.
Employment Authorization Students may work on-campus or apply for off-campus employment with proper authorization.
Duration of Stay F-1 students may remain in the U.S. for the duration of their program plus a 60-day grace period.
Travel Endorsement Endorsements on the I-20 are valid for re-entry for one year.
Financial Requirements Students must demonstrate financial support for tuition and living expenses.
Signature Requirement Both the student and a designated school official must sign the form for it to be valid.

I 20: Usage Instruction

Filling out the I-20 form is an important step for nonimmigrant students seeking to study in the United States. After completing the form, it will need to be submitted to the appropriate authorities as part of your visa application process. Below are the steps to accurately fill out the I-20 form.

  1. Locate the SEVIS ID at the top of the form. This number is unique to your application and must be included.
  2. Fill in your SURNAME/PRIMARY NAME and GIVEN NAME as they appear on your passport.
  3. Enter your PREFERRED NAME and PASSPORT NAME if they differ from your given name.
  4. Provide your COUNTRY OF BIRTH and COUNTRY OF CITIZENSHIP.
  5. Input your DATE OF BIRTH in the format MM/DD/YYYY.
  6. Leave the ADMISSION NUMBER blank if you do not have one yet.
  7. Indicate the ACADEMIC AND FORM ISSUE REASON as appropriate.
  8. Fill in the SCHOOL NAME and SCHOOL ADDRESS where you will be studying.
  9. Provide the SCHOOL CODE AND APPROVAL DATE as given by your school.
  10. Specify your PROGRAM OF STUDY, including EDUCATION LEVEL and MAJOR (up to two majors).
  11. Document your ENGLISH PROFICIENCY level and any relevant ENGLISH PROFICIENCY NOTES.
  12. Fill in the EARLIEST ADMISSION DATE and the START OF CLASSES.
  13. Complete the PROGRAM START/END DATE fields.
  14. Estimate the AVERAGE COSTS FOR 9 MONTHS for tuition, living expenses, and any dependents.
  15. Calculate the TOTAL estimated costs and provide it in the designated area.
  16. Sign and date the SCHOOL ATTESTATION section, confirming the accuracy of the information.
  17. If you are under 18, have a parent or guardian sign in the STUDENT ATTESTATION section as well.
  18. Make sure all sections are complete and legible before submitting the form.

Learn More on I 20

  1. What is the I-20 form?

    The I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a document issued by U.S. educational institutions to international students. It certifies that a student has been accepted into a full course of study and is eligible to apply for an F-1 student visa. This form is essential for students wishing to enter the United States for educational purposes.

  2. Who needs an I-20 form?

    Any international student who wishes to study in the United States on an F-1 visa must obtain an I-20 form. This includes students enrolling in academic programs, language training programs, and vocational programs. The form must be issued by a designated school official (DSO) from the institution the student plans to attend.

  3. How do I obtain an I-20 form?

    To obtain an I-20 form, you must first apply and be accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. After acceptance, you will need to provide the school with necessary documentation, such as proof of financial support and academic qualifications. Once your application is reviewed, the DSO will issue the I-20 form.

  4. What should I do if I lose my I-20 form?

    If you lose your I-20 form, you should immediately contact the designated school official at your institution. They can issue a new I-20 form for you. It is important to keep a copy of your I-20 form with you at all times while in the United States.

  5. What is the purpose of the I-20 form during visa application?

    The I-20 form serves as a crucial document when applying for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. You must present your I-20 form to the consular officer, along with other required documents, such as a valid passport and proof of financial support. The I-20 form indicates that you have been accepted to a school and are eligible to study in the United States.

  6. What happens if I do not enroll in the school listed on my I-20?

    If you do not enroll in the school listed on your I-20 form by the program start date, you risk losing your student status. This could lead to deportation from the United States. If you wish to attend a different school, you must obtain a new I-20 from that institution and apply for a new F-1 visa, if necessary.

  7. Can I work while on an I-20?

    Yes, you may work under certain conditions while on an I-20. On-campus employment is generally allowed. Off-campus employment requires authorization from your DSO and must meet specific criteria, such as curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT). Always consult with your DSO before seeking employment to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

  8. What should I do if I need to extend my stay?

    If you need to extend your stay in the United States, you must contact your DSO at least 15 days before your program end date. They can guide you through the process of requesting an extension of your I-20 form, provided you are still enrolled in a full course of study.

  9. What are the consequences of violating the terms of my I-20?

    Violating the terms of your I-20 can lead to serious consequences, including loss of your student status and potential deportation. Common violations include unauthorized employment, failure to maintain full-time enrollment, or not reporting a change of address. It is crucial to adhere to the regulations outlined in your I-20 and maintain communication with your DSO.

Common mistakes

Filling out the I-20 form is a critical step for nonimmigrant students seeking to study in the United States. However, many individuals make common mistakes that can jeopardize their application. One frequent error is not providing accurate personal information. This includes the student's name, date of birth, and country of citizenship. If any of these details do not match the information on the passport, it can lead to delays or even denial of the visa application.

Another mistake is failing to include the correct program of study. The I-20 form requires students to specify their major and level of education. Omitting this information or listing an incorrect major can create confusion during the visa application process. It is essential to ensure that the program details align with what the school has on record.

Many applicants also overlook the financial information section. Students must provide evidence of their ability to support themselves financially during their studies. Inaccurate or incomplete financial details can raise red flags for immigration officials. Providing a clear breakdown of tuition, living expenses, and funding sources is crucial for a smooth application process.

Another common oversight involves the signature section. Both the student and, if applicable, the parent or guardian must sign the form. Failing to obtain the necessary signatures can invalidate the I-20 form. It is important to double-check that all required signatures are present before submission.

Additionally, students sometimes forget to report their U.S. address to the designated school official (DSO) upon arrival. Keeping the DSO informed of any address changes is a requirement. Failure to do so can lead to complications with the student’s immigration status.

Lastly, applicants may neglect to read the instructions carefully. The I-20 form comes with specific guidelines that must be followed. Ignoring these instructions can result in mistakes that could have been easily avoided. Taking the time to understand the requirements can save students from unnecessary complications in their immigration journey.

Documents used along the form

The I-20 form is a critical document for nonimmigrant students in the United States. However, several other forms and documents are often required to support your application and maintain your status. Below is a list of these essential documents, each accompanied by a brief description.

  • Form DS-160: This is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. It must be completed and submitted as part of the visa application process for students seeking to enter the U.S. on an F-1 visa.
  • Form I-901: This form is used to pay the SEVIS fee, which is required for students applying for an F-1 visa. Proof of payment must be presented during the visa application process.
  • Passport: A valid passport is necessary for entering the United States. It should remain valid for the duration of your stay and beyond, ideally for at least six months after your intended departure.
  • Visa: A valid F-1 student visa is required for entry into the U.S. This visa is obtained from a U.S. consulate or embassy after submitting the I-20 form and the DS-160.
  • Financial Support Documents: These documents demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses while studying in the U.S. This may include bank statements, scholarship letters, or affidavits of support.
  • Travel Endorsement: This endorsement on the I-20 form allows students to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. It must be signed by a designated school official and is valid for one year.
  • Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. If you wish to work off-campus during your studies, you must file this form to obtain the necessary authorization.

Having these documents in order is essential for a smooth experience as a nonimmigrant student in the United States. Always ensure that you keep copies of all forms and documents, as they may be required at various stages of your journey.

Similar forms

The Form DS-2019, also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, serves a purpose similar to the I-20 form. It is used for individuals participating in exchange visitor programs, such as those sponsored by educational institutions or cultural exchange organizations. Like the I-20, the DS-2019 outlines the participant’s program details, including the duration of stay and financial support. Both forms are essential for applying for a visa and entering the United States, and they must be presented to consular officials during the visa application process.

The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is another document closely related to the I-20 form. Upon entering the United States, travelers receive the I-94, which records their arrival and specifies their immigration status. This form is crucial for students as it indicates their authorized stay in the U.S. Both the I-20 and I-94 are vital for maintaining legal status, and students must ensure that the information on both forms aligns to avoid complications during their studies.

The Visa Application Form (DS-160) is also similar to the I-20 form in that it is a necessary step for obtaining a visa to enter the United States. The DS-160 is an online form that collects personal information, travel history, and the purpose of the visit. Just like the I-20, it requires accurate information and is submitted to the U.S. Department of State. Both documents play a critical role in the visa approval process, and discrepancies between them can lead to delays or denials.

Lastly, the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, is relevant for individuals wishing to change their status while in the U.S. This form can be used by students who wish to extend their stay or change their educational program. Similar to the I-20, the I-539 requires supporting documentation, such as proof of financial support and enrollment in a full course of study. Both forms are essential for maintaining legal status and compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-20 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are seven things to do and not to do:

  • Do read all instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate personal information, including your full name and date of birth.
  • Do ensure that the school information is correct and matches your acceptance letter.
  • Do keep a copy of your completed I-20 form for your records.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; fill in all necessary information.
  • Don't use nicknames or abbreviations for your name; use your official name as it appears on your passport.
  • Don't forget to sign the form; both student and designated school official signatures are required.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The I-20 form is just a formality.

    • Many people believe the I-20 is merely a piece of paper. In reality, it is a crucial document that proves your eligibility to study in the U.S. as a nonimmigrant student.

  • Misconception 2: I can study at any school with my I-20.

    • Your I-20 is specific to the school listed on it. If you wish to attend a different institution, you must obtain a new I-20 from that school.

  • Misconception 3: The I-20 is not needed once I arrive in the U.S.

    • It's essential to carry your I-20 with you at all times while in the U.S. Losing it can create complications with your immigration status.

  • Misconception 4: I can work freely with my I-20.

    • While the I-20 allows for some employment options, such as on-campus work, you must have specific authorization for off-campus jobs.

  • Misconception 5: I don’t need to report my address to my school.

    • It's mandatory to inform your designated school official (DSO) of your U.S. address within 10 days of moving. This keeps your records up to date.

  • Misconception 6: I can stay in the U.S. indefinitely as long as I have my I-20.

    • Your stay is tied to your program's duration. You must leave the U.S. by the date indicated on your I-20, plus any allowed grace period.

  • Misconception 7: The I-20 guarantees a visa approval.

    • While the I-20 is necessary for your visa application, it does not guarantee that your visa will be approved. Other factors are considered by the consular officer.

  • Misconception 8: I can ignore the program start date on my I-20.

    • Failing to enroll by the program start date can jeopardize your student status and may lead to deportation. It’s vital to adhere to this timeline.

  • Misconception 9: All I need is my I-20 for travel.

    • When traveling, you need to carry your I-20, a valid passport, and a visa. Ensure all documents are up-to-date to avoid issues upon re-entry.

Key takeaways

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-20 form is essential for nonimmigrant students. It shows that you have been accepted into a U.S. school and are authorized to apply for an F-1 visa.
  • Keep It Safe: Always carry your I-20 form with you. If you lose it, request a replacement from your designated school official (DSO) immediately.
  • Visa Application: Present your I-20 when applying for a visa. If you have multiple I-20 forms, use the one from the school you plan to attend.
  • Report to Your School: Upon entering the U.S., report to the DSO at your school. If you choose to attend a different school, you will need a new I-20 for that institution.
  • Employment Regulations: You can work on-campus without restrictions. Off-campus work requires permission from your DSO and may involve additional applications to USCIS.
  • Stay Informed: Keep your personal information updated with your DSO, especially your U.S. address. This is crucial for maintaining your status as a student.