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. Issued by a designated school official (DSO), it confirms that a student has been accepted into a full-time academic program and is eligible to apply for an F-1 student visa. The I-20 must be kept on hand at all times during the student’s stay in the U.S.
Who needs an I-20 form?
Any international student seeking to enter the United States on an F-1 visa must obtain an I-20 form. This includes students who are applying to a new school, transferring from another institution, or changing their immigration status to F-1. Additionally, dependents of F-1 students may also require an I-20 form to enter the U.S. as F-2 dependents.
How do I obtain an I-20 form?
To obtain an I-20 form, a student must first apply and be accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. Once accepted, the school will provide the student with the I-20 form, which includes details about the student’s program, financial information, and other essential data. It is important to ensure that all information is accurate before signing the form.
What should I do if I lose my I-20 form?
If the I-20 form is lost, the student should promptly contact their designated school official (DSO) to request a replacement. The DSO will issue a new I-20 form, which the student must keep safe to avoid complications with their immigration status.
What documents do I need to enter the U.S. with an I-20?
When entering the United States, a student must present several documents to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. These include a valid passport, a valid F-1 visa (unless exempt), the I-20 form, and evidence of financial support for tuition and living expenses. It is essential to have all these documents ready for inspection at the port of entry.
Can I work while on an I-20?
Students on an I-20 form may work under certain conditions. On-campus employment is generally permitted without prior authorization. However, off-campus employment requires written permission from the DSO and, in some cases, authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is crucial to adhere to the regulations regarding employment to maintain F-1 status.
What happens if I need to extend my program?
If a student cannot complete their program by the end date listed on the I-20, they should contact their DSO at least 15 days before the program end date to request an extension. The DSO will assess the situation and may issue a new I-20 form if the extension is granted.
What is the process for transferring schools with an I-20?
To transfer to a new school, a student must first inform their current DSO of their intention to transfer. Afterward, they need to obtain a new I-20 form from the DSO at the new school. The student must return the new I-20 to the DSO at the new institution within 15 days of starting classes there. The DSO will then report the transfer to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
What should I do if I change my address while in the U.S.?
Upon arriving in the United States, students must report their U.S. address to their DSO. If the student moves, they must notify the DSO of their new address within 10 days of the change. The DSO will update the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) with the new address to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.