The I-20 form is a critical document issued by U.S. educational institutions, certifying eligibility for nonimmigrant student status. This form enables international students to apply for an F-1 visa, allowing them to study in the United States. Understanding its requirements and implications is essential for maintaining lawful status while pursuing education in the U.S.
The I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, plays a crucial role for international students wishing to study in the United States. This document is issued by a designated school official and confirms that a student has been accepted into a full-time academic program at an accredited institution. The I-20 contains essential information such as the student's personal details, program of study, and financial requirements, which are necessary for obtaining an F-1 student visa. It also outlines the student's responsibilities while in the U.S., including maintaining full-time enrollment and adhering to employment regulations. The form serves as a key document for both visa applications and re-entry into the U.S. after travel. Understanding the significance of the I-20 and ensuring its accuracy is vital for any international student navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration and education systems.
What is the I-20 form?
The I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a crucial document for international students wishing to study in the United States. It verifies that you have been accepted into a U.S. school and that you are eligible to apply for an F-1 student visa. This form must be kept with you at all times while you are in the U.S.
Who issues the I-20 form?
The I-20 form is issued by a designated school official (DSO) at the school you plan to attend. This official verifies your acceptance and eligibility for the program of study you intend to pursue. Only schools certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) can issue this form.
What do I need to apply for a visa with the I-20 form?
When applying for an F-1 visa, you must present your I-20 form along with several other documents. These include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and evidence of financial support for your tuition and living expenses. Ensure you have the I-20 from the school you plan to attend, as this will be the basis for your visa application.
How long is the I-20 form valid?
The I-20 form is valid for the duration of your program of study, plus an additional 60 days after your program ends. If you need to extend your stay, you must contact your DSO at least 15 days before your program end date to request an extension.
What should I do if I lose my I-20 form?
If you lose your I-20 form, it is important to act quickly. You should contact your DSO at your school immediately to request a replacement. Keeping a copy of your I-20 in a safe place is a good practice to avoid complications.
Can I work while on an I-20?
Yes, you may work under certain conditions. On-campus employment is generally permitted without special authorization. For off-campus work, you will need to obtain written permission from your DSO and may have to apply for specific work authorizations, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
What happens if I want to change schools?
If you decide to transfer to another school, you must first inform your current DSO. After that, you will need to obtain a new I-20 from the DSO at the new school. You must return the new I-20 to your current school’s DSO within 15 days of starting at the new school to ensure a smooth transfer process.
What should I do if I change my address?
It is essential to keep your address updated. Upon arriving in the U.S., you must report your address to your DSO. If you move, you must notify your DSO of your new address within 10 days of the change so they can update your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
What is the penalty for not complying with I-20 regulations?
Failing to comply with the regulations associated with your I-20 can result in the loss of your student status. This may lead to deportation from the United States. It is crucial to remain a full-time student, engage only in authorized employment, and keep your passport valid to maintain your status.
1. The Form I-20 is essential. It serves as proof of your admission to a U.S. school and is necessary for applying for an F-1 visa.
2. Keep your Form I-20 accessible. Always have it with you while in the United States. If lost, request a replacement from your designated school official (DSO).
3. Present it during your visa application. When applying for your visa, provide the Form I-20 to the U.S. consular officer. Ensure it is from the school you intend to attend.
4. Report to your school upon arrival. You must check in with the DSO at your school after entering the U.S. Failure to do so may jeopardize your student status.
5. Understand your employment options. You can work on-campus or apply for off-campus employment with proper authorization. Unauthorized work can lead to deportation.
6. Keep track of your stay duration. You can remain in the U.S. while enrolled full-time or during authorized employment. Be aware of the deadlines for leaving the country.
7. Notify your DSO of address changes. Report any new U.S. address within 10 days to ensure your records are up to date in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
8. Extensions are possible. If you cannot finish your program by the end date on your Form I-20, contact your DSO at least 15 days prior to request an extension.
9. Transferring schools requires procedure. Notify your current DSO of your intent to transfer and obtain a new Form I-20 from the new school.
10. Compliance is critical. Adhering to the rules regarding your student status is essential. Noncompliance can lead to severe consequences, including deportation.
This is incorrect. The I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, serves multiple purposes. It not only confirms a student's admission to a U.S. school but also allows the student to apply for an F-1 visa, which is essential for studying in the United States.
This is a dangerous assumption. Students must carry their I-20 form at all times while in the U.S. Losing it can lead to complications in maintaining legal status. If lost, students must promptly request a replacement from their designated school official.
This is false. The I-20 form is essential for re-entering the U.S. after temporary absences. It must be properly endorsed by a designated school official to ensure that students can return to continue their studies.
This is misleading. While the I-20 allows students to apply for work authorization, it does not grant immediate employment rights. Students may work on-campus or seek off-campus employment only after obtaining the necessary approvals from their designated school official and, in some cases, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
This is incorrect. The I-20 form has an expiration date tied to the program of study. Students must be aware of their program end date and take necessary actions, such as requesting an extension if they cannot complete their studies on time.
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.
DATE
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
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
AUTHORIZATION DATES
01 JULY 2016 - 15 JULY 2016
EMPLOYER NAME
CITY & STATE
SEVP applied labs
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
Page 2 of 3
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.
Page 3 of 3
Salary Advance Letter Format - Complete this form to receive funds ahead of scheduled paychecks.
For those looking to navigate the incorporation process, understanding the importance of the necessary Articles of Incorporation document is vital. This form serves as the foundational step in establishing a corporation, detailing crucial aspects like the company’s objectives and share structure.
Affidavit of Support - It’s important to gather all necessary documentation before filling out the form.
Incorrect Personal Information: Many individuals mistakenly enter incorrect details such as their name, date of birth, or country of citizenship. This can lead to discrepancies that may affect their visa application and admission process.
Failure to Update Information: If a student changes their address or academic program after submitting the I-20 form, they often forget to inform their designated school official (DSO). This oversight can result in issues with their immigration status.
Inaccurate Financial Information: Providing incorrect financial details can be a significant mistake. Students must accurately report their funding sources and estimated costs for their stay in the U.S. Inaccuracies can lead to visa denials.
Not Signing the Form: Some applicants neglect to sign the I-20 form, which is a crucial step in the process. Without a signature, the form is incomplete and may not be accepted by the U.S. consulate or immigration officials.
When filling out the I-20 form, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:
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. Like the I-20, the DS-2019 is issued by a designated sponsor and indicates that the individual has been accepted into a program that allows them to stay in the U.S. for educational or cultural exchange. Both forms are essential for applying for a visa and for maintaining legal status while in the United States.
The Form I-94 is another important document for nonimmigrant students. It is issued by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival in the U.S. and serves as proof of the individual's legal entry and immigration status. Similar to the I-20, the I-94 indicates the duration of stay allowed in the country. Students must keep their I-94 form safe, as it is crucial for maintaining their student status and for any future immigration processes.
The Form F-1 Visa is specifically for students who wish to study in the U.S. This visa is obtained from a U.S. consulate or embassy and is directly tied to the I-20 form. The F-1 Visa allows students to enter the United States to pursue their studies. Just as the I-20 must be presented during the visa application process, the F-1 Visa must be shown upon entry into the U.S. to validate the student's purpose of travel.
The Form I-539 is used for applying to extend or change nonimmigrant status. Similar to the I-20, this form is relevant for students who wish to remain in the U.S. beyond their original program end date. By submitting the I-539, students can request an extension of their stay or a change to a different nonimmigrant status, thereby ensuring they remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws.
For those looking to transfer ownership of personal property, it is important to utilize the necessary bill of sale documentation to ensure a smooth transaction. This form captures vital details about the agreement and protects both parties involved.
The Form I-765 is the application for employment authorization. Students on an F-1 visa may need to apply for this form if they wish to work off-campus. The I-765 is similar to the I-20 in that it requires proof of eligibility and must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Both forms are integral to maintaining legal status while pursuing educational and employment opportunities in the U.S.
The Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, is relevant for certain nonimmigrant petitions. While it is not exclusively for students, it can expedite the processing of applications related to work authorization or changes of status. Like the I-20, the I-907 must be filed with USCIS and is crucial for individuals seeking timely updates on their immigration status.
The Form SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt is another document that parallels the I-20 form. Before applying for a visa, students must pay a fee to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and obtain a receipt. This receipt is necessary to validate their I-20 form and is an important part of the visa application process, ensuring that students have met all financial obligations associated with their study in the U.S.
Finally, the Form I-20 (for dependents) allows spouses and children of F-1 students to enter the U.S. under F-2 status. This form is similar to the primary I-20 in that it is issued by the designated school official and is required for visa applications for dependents. Both forms must be kept current and accurate to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.