What is Form I-20?

Form I-20 is an official document issued by a SEVP-certified school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) in the U.S. It certifies that a student has been accepted into a full-time academic (F-1) or vocational (M-1) program and is eligible to apply for a student visa.

Important: The I-20 is not a visa. It is a required document to apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate and to maintain legal student status while in the United States.

Eligibility Requirements

To receive a Form I-20, a student must:

✔️ Be officially accepted into a SEVP-approved school or program.

✔️ Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during their stay.

✔️Meet academic or vocational admission requirements, including language proficiency, transcripts, or certifications.

Process to Obtain an I-20

1. The student applies to a SEVP-certified institution (college, university, ESL program, or trade school).
2. If accepted, the school sends an official acceptance letter.
3. The student submits proof of financial ability to the institution.
4. The school issues Form I-20, which contains:
   • SEVIS ID number
   • Program start and end dates
   • Financial information
5. The student uses the I-20 to:
   • Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
   • Apply for a F-1 or M-1 visa at the nearest U.S. consulate

📄Documents Required for I-20 Issuance

• Official letter of acceptance
• Proof of financial ability, such as:
  • Bank statements
  • Letters from sponsors
  • Scholarships or funding letters
• Student’s biographical data
• Medical insurance, if required by the school

Restrictions of the I-20

⚠️It does not grant entry to the U.S. — you must still apply for a visa.

⚠️The I-20 must be kept valid and up to date at all times.

⚠️Any changes to your program (field of study, level, start/end dates, etc.) must be reflected in a new or updated I-20.

⚠️You must enroll full-time to maintain status.

Can Fmily Members Join?

Yes. An F-1 or M-1 student can request I-20s for dependents (spouse and children under 21), who can then apply for F-2 or M-2 visas. Dependents cannot work, and children may only study in elementary or secondary school.

Expected Timeframe

• Once accepted and financials are reviewed, schools typically issue the I-20 within 1 to 3 weeks.
• Processing time can vary depending on school policies and holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the I-20 valid?
  It is valid until the end of your academic/vocational program, plus a grace period:
  • 60 days for F-1 students
  • 30 days for M-1 students
• What happens if I change schools?
  You must request a SEVIS transfer and receive a new I-20 from your new institution.
• Can my I-20 be canceled?
  Yes. The Designated School Official (DSO) can terminate your SEVIS record and I-20 if:
  • You violate student status (e.g., unauthorized work, poor attendance)
  • You withdraw from the program or fail to maintain full-time enrollment
• Can I enter the U.S. with only an I-20?
  No. You need to apply for and obtain a valid F-1 or M-1 visa.
• Do I need a new I-20 to renew my visa?
  Yes. You must present a current and active I-20 when renewing your visa abroad.
• Can I work with just the I-20?
  Not directly. However:
  • On-campus employment is allowed (part-time during school, full-time on breaks)
  • For off-campus work, you need approval for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training)