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Fill Out a Valid I 20 Template

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Content Overview

Guide to Writing I 20

Completing the I-20 form is an essential step for students seeking nonimmigrant status in the United States. The following steps provide a clear guide for filling out the form accurately to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

  1. Obtain the I-20 form from your designated school official (DSO).
  2. Fill in your SURNAME/PRIMARY NAME and GIVEN NAME as they appear on your passport.
  3. Provide your PREFERRED NAME and PASSPORT NAME if applicable.
  4. Enter your COUNTRY OF BIRTH and COUNTRY OF CITIZENSHIP.
  5. Input your DATE OF BIRTH in the specified format.
  6. Leave the ADMISSION NUMBER blank if you do not have one yet.
  7. Indicate the ACADEMIC AND FORM ISSUE REASON.
  8. Fill in your SCHOOL NAME and SCHOOL ADDRESS.
  9. Provide the name of the SCHOOL OFFICIAL TO CONTACT UPON ARRIVAL.
  10. Enter the SCHOOL CODE AND APPROVAL DATE.
  11. Specify your PROGRAM OF STUDY and EDUCATION LEVEL.
  12. List your MAJOR 1 and MAJOR 2 if applicable.
  13. Indicate your ENGLISH PROFICIENCY and any relevant ENGLISH PROFICIENCY NOTES.
  14. Fill in the EARLIEST ADMISSION DATE and START OF CLASSES.
  15. Complete the PROGRAM START/END DATE.
  16. In the FINANCIALS section, provide estimated average costs for tuition, living expenses, and other costs for 9 months.
  17. Indicate the total funding amount you will provide for the 9-month period.
  18. Sign the SCHOOL ATTESTATION section, confirming the accuracy of the information.
  19. As a student, sign the STUDENT ATTESTATION section, ensuring all information is correct.
  20. If under 18, have a parent or guardian sign the form as well.
  21. Submit the completed form to your DSO for review and signature.

Once the form is filled out and signed, it will be submitted to the appropriate authorities. This document is crucial for your visa application and for maintaining your nonimmigrant status while studying in the United States.

Document Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-20 form serves as a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, allowing students to apply for an F-1 visa to study in the U.S.
SEVIS Requirement Students must obtain a Form I-20 from a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, which is linked to the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
Compliance To maintain F-1 status, students must comply with U.S. immigration laws, including remaining a full-time student and only engaging in authorized employment.
Travel Endorsement Page 2 of the I-20 can be endorsed by a designated school official for re-entry into the U.S. after temporary absences. Each endorsement is valid for one year.
Duration of Stay F-1 students may stay in the U.S. for the duration of their academic program, plus a 60-day grace period after program completion.
Legal Authority The issuance and requirements of the I-20 form are governed by 8 CFR 214.2 and 8 CFR 214.3, which outline the regulations for nonimmigrant students.

FAQ

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 is issued by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school and confirms that a student has been accepted into a full course of study. This form is necessary for applying for an F-1 student visa and for maintaining legal student status while in the U.S.

Who needs an I-20 form?

Any nonimmigrant student who wishes to study in the United States under an F-1 visa must have an I-20 form. This includes students attending universities, colleges, high schools, and language schools that are SEVP-certified. If you are transferring schools or changing your status, you will also need a new or updated I-20 form.

How do I obtain an I-20 form?

To obtain an I-20 form, you must first apply and be accepted to a SEVP-certified school. Once accepted, the school’s designated school official (DSO) will issue the I-20 form based on your admission and the information you provide, such as proof of financial support and your academic qualifications.

What information is included on the I-20 form?

The I-20 form contains several key pieces of information, including:

  • Your personal details, such as name, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
  • School information, including the name and address of the institution.
  • Your program of study and the estimated costs associated with your education.
  • Details about your financial support and any employment authorizations.

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

If you lose your I-20 form, it is essential to act quickly. Contact your DSO at your school to request a replacement. You should always carry your I-20 form with you, as it is a vital document for your student status and for re-entering the U.S. after travel.

Can I work while on an I-20?

Yes, you can work under certain conditions while on an I-20. F-1 students may work on-campus without special authorization. For off-campus employment, you must obtain written permission from your DSO and, in some cases, authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Options for off-campus work include Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

What happens if my I-20 expires?

If your I-20 expires, you may lose your legal student status in the U.S. It is crucial to maintain your enrollment and complete your program by the end date listed on your I-20. If you need more time to finish your studies, contact your DSO at least 15 days before the expiration date to request an extension.

How do I transfer to another school with an I-20?

To transfer to another school, you must first inform your current DSO of your intent to transfer. Then, obtain a new I-20 from the DSO at the school you wish to attend. After you begin attending the new school, return the new I-20 to the DSO there within 15 days. This process ensures that your immigration record is updated and that you maintain your student status.

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 the loss of your student status and potential deportation from the U.S. Common violations include failing to maintain full-time enrollment, unauthorized employment, or not reporting a change of address. Always consult your DSO if you are unsure about your status or requirements.

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I 20 Example

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