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The I-20 form is a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security that certifies eligibility for nonimmigrant student status in the United States. This form is essential for international students seeking to study in the U.S. as it allows them to apply for a student visa and provides proof of their admission to an academic program.

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The Form I-20, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, serves as a crucial document for international students wishing to study in the United States. This form is issued by U.S. educational institutions that are certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). It outlines essential information about the student, including their name, date of birth, country of citizenship, and the specific program of study they will pursue. The I-20 also details the estimated costs for tuition, living expenses, and other financial requirements for the duration of the student’s stay. Additionally, it includes sections for employment authorizations, allowing students to engage in certain types of work under specific conditions. The form must be presented during the visa application process and upon entry into the U.S., and it plays a significant role in maintaining the student's legal status. Compliance with the regulations outlined on the I-20 is critical, as failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in the loss of student status and potential deportation. Thus, understanding the I-20 form is essential for any international student navigating the complexities of studying in the United States.

When filling out the I-20 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are five things you should do and five things you should avoid:

Do: Carefully read all instructions provided on the form before starting.
Do: Ensure that all personal information is accurate and matches your official documents.
Do: Sign the form only after confirming that all information is correct.
Do: Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
Do: Contact your designated school official (DSO) if you have questions or need assistance.

Don't: Rush through the form; take your time to avoid mistakes.
Don't: Provide false or misleading information; this can lead to serious consequences.
Don't: Forget to report any changes in your personal information to your DSO promptly.
Don't: Submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
Don't: Neglect to comply with the deadlines for submission and reporting changes.

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The I-20 form certifies eligibility for nonimmigrant student status in the U.S.
SEVIS ID	Each I-20 form has a unique SEVIS ID, which tracks the student's status.
Visa Requirement	Students must present the I-20 form when applying for an F-1 visa.
Program Duration	The I-20 specifies the program start and end dates, impacting the student's stay.
Employment Authorization	Students can work on-campus and may seek off-campus employment with authorization.
Address Reporting	Students must report their U.S. address to their designated school official (DSO).
Legal Compliance	Failure to comply with I-20 regulations can lead to loss of student status and deportation.

Understanding the I-20 form is crucial for nonimmigrant students in the United States. Here are key takeaways to consider:

Primary Document: The I-20 form is essential as it confirms your admission to a U.S. school and your eligibility to apply for an F-1 visa.
Keep It Safe: Always carry your I-20 form with you. If it is lost, promptly request a replacement from your designated school official (DSO).
Visa Application: Present your I-20 form when applying for a visa. Ensure you have the correct form from the school you intend to attend.
Reporting Requirements: Upon entering the U.S., report to the DSO at your school. Failure to do so by the program start date may jeopardize your student status.
Employment Rules: You may work on-campus or off-campus under specific conditions. Unauthorized employment can lead to termination of your F-1 status.
Address Updates: Notify your DSO of any address changes within 10 days. Keeping your records updated is necessary for compliance with immigration regulations.

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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
		PASSPORT NAME

COUNTRY OF BIRTH		COUNTRY OF CITIZENSHIP
COUNTRY OF BIRTH
DATE OF BIRTH		ADMISSION NUMBER
DATE OF BIRTH				ACADEMIC AND
				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.

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

Filling out the I-20 form is a critical step for international students seeking to study in the United States. This form is essential for obtaining your student visa and maintaining your status while studying. Below are the steps you should follow to complete the I-20 form accurately.

Obtain the Form: Start by requesting the I-20 form from your designated school official (DSO) at the school you plan to attend.
Fill in Personal Information: Enter your surname, given name, preferred name, and passport name. Make sure this information matches your passport.
Provide Identification Details: Include your SEVIS ID, country of birth, country of citizenship, and date of birth.
Admission Information: Fill in your class of admission and admission number, if applicable.
School Information: Enter the school name, address, and the school code. You may also need to provide the name of the school official to contact upon arrival.
Program Details: Specify your program of study, education level, and major(s). Indicate your English proficiency and any notes regarding it.
Financial Information: List estimated average costs for tuition, living expenses, and other relevant financial details for nine months. Include the total amount of funding you have for that period.
Sign the Form: The designated school official must sign the form, certifying that all information is accurate and complete. Ensure you also sign the student attestation section, confirming your understanding and agreement to the terms.
Review for Accuracy: Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness before submitting the form.
Submit the Form: Return the completed form to your DSO for processing. Keep a copy for your records.

Once you have filled out the I-20 form, your school will process it and provide you with a signed copy. This signed form is essential for your visa application and must be presented at your visa interview. Make sure to keep it safe, as you will need it throughout your studies in the United States.

SIGNATURE OF:

NAME OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN

ADDRESS (city/state or province/country) DATE

The I-20 form is an essential document for international students wishing to study in the United States. However, there are several other forms and documents that often accompany it. Each of these plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws and facilitating the student’s experience. Below is a list of these important documents.

Visa Application (Form DS-160): This online application form is required for nonimmigrant visa applicants. It collects personal information, travel plans, and background details. Completing this form is a crucial step in obtaining a student visa.
Passport: A valid passport is mandatory for entering the United States. It should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Without a valid passport, you cannot apply for a visa or enter the country.
Financial Support Documents: These documents prove 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.
Admission Letter: This letter from the educational institution confirms your acceptance into a program. It typically includes details about your course of study and start date, reinforcing your eligibility for the I-20 form.
SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt: Before obtaining a visa, students must pay the SEVIS fee. This receipt serves as proof of payment and is required for the visa application process.
Travel Endorsement: This endorsement on your I-20 allows you to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. It must be signed by a designated school official (DSO) and is valid for one year.
Texas Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney: This document is crucial for those needing to authorize another individual to manage motor vehicle transactions. For assistance in obtaining this form, visit Texas Forms Online.
Form I-94: This arrival/departure record is issued when you enter the U.S. It documents your entry and is important for maintaining your student status.
Employment Authorization Documents: If you plan to work while studying, you may need to obtain additional authorization, such as for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Having these documents in order can significantly ease your transition into studying in the United States. Make sure to keep them organized and accessible throughout your journey. Compliance with all requirements is key to maintaining your status as a nonimmigrant student.