Free I 20 PDF Form

How to Fill Out I 20

Filling out the I-20 form is a critical step for international students planning to study in the United States. This document, issued by U.S. educational institutions to prospective students, verifies the student's acceptance and eligibility for an F-1 student visa. It's essential to provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays in the visa application process. Here are the detailed steps to fill out the I-20 form correctly:

1. Locate the SEVIS ID at the top of the form and ensure it matches the ID provided by your school.
2. Fill in your SURNAME/PRIMARY NAME and GIVEN NAME exactly as they appear in your passport.
3. If you have a PREFERRED NAME, enter it in the designated field.
4. In the PASSPORT NAME field, input your name exactly as it appears on your passport.
5. Select your Class of Admission as F-1.
6. Provide your COUNTRY OF BIRTH and COUNTRY OF CITIZENSHIP.
7. Enter your DATE OF BIRTH in the format provided on the form.
8. Under ACADEMIC AND FORM ISSUE REASON, indicate the reason for issuing the I-20 form.
9. In the LANGUAGE SCHOOL INFORMATION section, write the name and address of the school you will be attending.
10. Complete the PROGRAM OF STUDY section, including education level, major(s), program start and end dates, as well as the earliest date you can enter the United States for your studies.
11. Under FINANCIALS, enter the estimated cost of tuition, fees, living expenses, and any dependents' expenses, then detail your funding for these costs.
12. Read the SCHOOL ATTESTATION section. This section is typically completed by a designated school official, not the student. Ensure it is signed by the appropriate school authority.
13. Sign and date the STUDENT ATTESTATION section, confirming you understand and agree to the terms of your admission. If under 18, a parent or guardian must also sign.
14. For the EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATIONS and CHANGE OF STATUS/CAP-GAP EXTENSION sections, if applicable, fill in the necessary details as directed by your institution.
15. If your form includes a page for TRAVEL ENDORSEMENT, know that this must be signed by a designated school official before you travel outside the U.S. It indicates you are expected to return to continue your studies.

Once you complete the form, review all sections carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness. Submit the form as instructed by your designated school official. Remember, the I-20 form is pivotal for your student visa application and maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws while studying in the United States.

What is the I-20 form and why is it important for international students?

The I-20 form, also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a critical document for international students who wish to study in the United States under the F-1 visa category. Issued by a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved school, the form verifies that a student has been admitted to a full-time study program and has shown enough financial support to stay and study in the U.S. It is required for obtaining an F-1 student visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate and for entering and remaining in the United States in legal student status.

How do I obtain an I-20 form?

To obtain an I-20 form, first, you must apply to and be accepted by a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) in the United States. After being accepted, you will need to provide evidence of your ability to finance your education and living expenses while in the U.S. Once the school has verified your financial resources, they will issue you an I-20 form.

What information is included on the I-20 form?

The I-20 form includes your personal information such as your name, country of birth, country of citizenship, date of birth, and SEVIS ID number. It also details your educational program information, including the program start and end dates, level of study, and field of study. Additionally, it outlines the estimated cost of your study and living expenses and confirms the financial resources you have demonstrated to cover these costs. The form also includes a school attestation and your attestation, indicating the accuracy of the information provided and your intent to study in the U.S.

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

If you lose your I-20 form, you should immediately contact the Designated School Official (DSO) at your school. The DSO will provide instructions on how to obtain a new I-20 form. It is crucial to keep your I-20 safe as it is required for many procedures, including visa renewal, entry to the U.S., and applying for benefits like a driver's license or social security number.

Can I use the I-20 form to enter the U.S. multiple times?

Yes, you can use the I-20 form, along with a valid F-1 visa and passport, to enter the U.S. multiple times as long as your I-20 is valid and properly endorsed by your DSO for travel. However, each time you re-enter the country, you must also demonstrate that you are returning to continue your studies. If you have been outside of the U.S. for more than five months, your re-entry may be viewed differently by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, and additional documentation may be required.

How does the I-20 form affect my ability to work in the U.S.?

The I-20 form outlines your eligibility for various types of employment as an F-1 student, including on-campus employment, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, before accepting any employment, you must obtain authorization from your DSO and/or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), depending on the type of work you plan to undertake. It's important to adhere to all employment regulations to maintain your F-1 status.

What should I do if there are changes to my program or personal information?

If there are any changes to your program of study or your personal information, such as a change in your name, country of citizenship, or if you decide to transfer to another school, you must report these changes to your DSO within 10 days. The DSO will then update your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and may issue you a new I-20 form reflecting these changes. It's important to keep your I-20 information current to avoid issues with your legal status in the U.S.

1. Not ensuring the name matches passport details precisely. It's essential that the surname/primary name, given name, and passport name on the I-20 match exactly what is on the passport. Discrepancies can cause significant issues at immigration checkpoints and with visa processing.

2. Incorrectly listing country of birth or citizenship. The country of birth and country of citizenship must accurately reflect the student’s legal documents. This information impacts visa and residency status determinations.

3. Misinterpreting the academic and form issue reason sections. These areas require clarity about the student’s academic purpose and the reason for issuing this particular form. Misunderstanding these sections may lead to incorrect processing of the form.

4. Overlooking the education level and program details. It is critical to correctly fill out the intended education level (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's) and specific program of study to avoid complications with enrollment and visa status.

5. Failure to demonstrate English proficiency accurately. If the form requests details about English proficiency, providing inaccurate information can mislead academic institutions and immigration authorities about the student’s ability to undertake coursework in English.

6. Leaving the financials section incomplete. Students must provide a comprehensive breakdown of the estimated costs of study and evidence of funding. Omitting this information or providing vague details can result in the denial of the I-20.

7. Signing the form without a thorough review. By signing the I-20 form, the student (and parent/guardian if the student is under 18) attests to the accuracy of the information. Rushing through this step without confirming the details can lead to discrepancies that might be problematic later on.

8. Ignoring the school attestation section. This section must be completed by a designated school official. The form is invalid without this attestation and signature, underscoring the importance of the school’s role in verifying the student’s eligibility and academic credentials.

9. Forgetting to update the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on changes. Any substantive changes to the student’s situation, including change of address, school transfer, or program adjustment, require timely updates on the form.

10. Not keeping a copy for personal records. Students must have their Form I-20 with them at all times while in the United States. Losing the form without having a backup copy can lead to adverse immigration consequences, including delays in re-entry to the U.S. after travel abroad.

Navigating the process for international students to study in the United States involves managing a variety of important documents. One of the most crucial documents in this venture is the I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. This form is critical for obtaining an F-1 student visa, but it's not the only document a prospective international student needs to handle. Several other forms and documents often accompany the I-20 form during different stages of this journey, each serving a unique purpose in supporting the student's endeavor to study in the U.S.

• DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application - Every prospective F-1 student must complete the DS-160 form online before scheduling an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This form collects personal information and details about the planned visit to America. It is essential for visa issuance and requires the student to upload a photo meeting specific criteria.
• SEVIS Fee Receipt - The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is required for all new students on F-1 visas. Proof of payment for this fee, evidenced by the receipt, must be presented during the visa interview. This one-time fee supports the system that tracks and monitors schools and students throughout the duration of approved study and exchange programs in the U.S.
• Passport - A valid passport is necessary for travel to the United States. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the planned period of stay in the U.S. It is the primary identification document for international students and must accompany the student during all phases of the journey, including visa application, entry into the U.S., and verification processes at the educational institution.
• Proof of Financial Support - Besides the I-20 form, which includes information on the estimated cost of study and evidence of the student's financial responsibility, students may also need to provide additional proof of financial support. This could be bank statements, scholarship letters, or loan approval documents to demonstrate that they can cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs while studying in the U.S.

While the I-20 form is a cornerstone in the documentation required for studying in the U.S., these additional forms and documents complete the landscape, providing proof of identity, financial stability, legal entry, and the intent of the visit. Together, they weave the necessary administrative fabric that supports an international student's academic aspirations in the United States. Prospective students should prepare these documents with care, ensuring accuracy and alignment with the latest requirements, to smooth their path to studying in the U.S.

• DS-2019 Form: Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status - Similar to the I-20 form, the DS-2019 facilitates the entry of international exchange visitors who participate in programs to promote cultural exchange, especially in the fields of education and research, into the United States. It outlines the visitor's program, including its start and end date, and financial information, and is required for the J-1 visa application.

• H-1B Visa Petition - This document is used by employers to petition for an employee to enter the U.S. under H-1B status, which allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Like the I-20, it includes details about the applicant's intended employment and their qualifications.

• I-129 Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker - This form is filed by U.S. employers who seek to employ nonimmigrant workers on a temporary basis in the United States in various classifications, including H-1B, L-1, and O-1. It requires similar documentation of the applicant's eligibility and the terms of employment as the I-20 form does for students.

• I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status - While the I-20 form is specifically for F-1 student status, the I-539 is used by nonimmigrants to request an extension of stay or change to another nonimmigrant status. The I-539 requires detailed information about the applicant's current status, reason for the extension or change, and evidence of financial support.

• F-1 Visa Application - Although not a form, the process for applying for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy requires the I-20 as evidence of a student's eligibility and intention to study in the United States. It parallels the I-20 in its use for entry into the U.S. educational system.

• SEVIS Fee Receipt - Students and exchange visitors are required to pay a SEVIS I-901 fee as part of their application process for a visa to enter the United States. The receipt of this payment often accompanies the I-20 or DS-2019 form when applying for a visa, as proof that the SEVIS fee has been paid.

• I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Similar to the employment authorization section of the I-20 form, the I-765 is used by eligible students and other nonimmigrants to request permission to work in the United States. It asks for detailed information about the applicant's eligibility and intended employment.

• I-134, Affidavit of Support - While the I-20 form includes information on a student's financial resources for studying in the U.S., the I-134 is used to show that visa applicants have sponsorship and will not become public charges while in the United States. It serves a similar purpose in demonstrating financial stability and support.

When filling out the I-20 form, it's crucial to ensure accuracy and completeness to facilitate a smooth process in applying for your nonimmigrant student status. Here are some do's and don'ts to consider:

• Read all instructions carefully before beginning to fill out the form. Understanding each section will help you provide accurate and complete information.
• Ensure all personal information matches the details in your passport. This includes your full name, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
• Double-check the school and program information to ensure they are correctly entered. Mistakes here can affect your eligibility and admission status.
• Provide detailed and accurate financial information to show proof of funding for tuition, fees, living expenses, and, if applicable, expenses of dependents.
• Sign and date the form where required. Your form may be considered invalid without your signature.
• Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. Having your own copy will be helpful for future reference or if any issues arise.

• Leave any sections blank unless specified. If a section does not apply to you, mark it as "N/A" (not applicable).
• Provide false information. This can lead to serious consequences, including denial of your application and potential legal penalties.
• Overlook the requirement for English proficiency details. If your program requires proof of English language skills, make sure this section is completed accurately.
• Forget to include information about any dependents if they will accompany you to the United States. This includes their personal and financial details.
• Rush through the form without reviewing. Take the time to check your information for errors or omissions before submitting.
• Forget to update your DSO with any significant changes to your information after submitting the form, such as changes in address, program, or financial status.

Misconceptions about the I-20 form can lead to confusion and unnecessary stress for international students. Below are four common misunderstandings and clarifications to help demystify this important document.

• The I-20 form is only needed at the time of visa application.

  This is incorrect. While it is true that the I-20 form is crucial for the F-1 visa application, its importance extends beyond just the application process. International students must carry their I-20 form with them when traveling to and from the United States. It is also needed for various processes such as applying for a driver's license, Social Security Number, and for employment authorization. Therefore, the I-20 form serves as a critical document throughout an international student's academic journey in the U.S.

• Once issued, the I-20 form's details cannot be changed.

  This misconception can cause students to stress unnecessarily. In reality, if there are changes in a student's program such as a change in major, funding, or if there are errors on the I-20 form, the student can and should request an updated I-20 from their Designated School Official (DSO). Updates are crucial to ensure the I-20 accurately reflects the student's current situation and to maintain their legal status in the U.S.

• Students can work anywhere with the I-20 form.

  This belief can lead to violations of student visa conditions. The I-20 form, by itself, does not grant permission to work unrestrictedly in the U.S. While it does contain information regarding eligibility for certain types of employment, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), any employment must be authorized and comply with the restrictions outlined. On-campus employment is allowed under certain conditions, and off-campus employment typically requires authorization from the DSO and possibly U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• There is no need to update the DSO if you move or change your address.

  On the contrary, notifying your DSO of a change of address is not only recommended but required by law. International students are obligated to report any change of address within 10 days of moving. This information is critical as the DSO must update the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) with the new address to keep the student's records current and to ensure compliance with U.S. regulations.

Understanding these aspects of the I-20 form can significantly ease the experience of navigating academic life in the U.S. as an international student. Always communicate with your DSO for the most accurate and personalized advice.

• The I-20 form is a document issued by colleges, universities, and vocational schools that provides supporting information for the application for an F-1 student visa. It is officially titled the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
• Students must have their I-20 form with them at all times when in the United States. If it is lost, they must request a new one from their Designated School Official (DSO).
• The form must be presented to the U.S. consulate at the time of visa application, along with proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Upon entering the United States, students are required to present the I-20 form along with a valid F-1 visa, a valid passport, and proof of financial support at the port of entry.
• Students must report to the school mentioned on their I-20 form and visa. Failure to enroll in the designated school by the program start date may lead to loss of student status and potential deportation.
• Unauthorized employment in the U.S. can result in termination of F-1 status and deportation. Employment options include on-campus employment and off-campus employment under certain conditions with prior authorization.
• The duration of stay in the U.S. for F-1 students is determined by the program end date on the I-20 form plus 60 days, completion of Optional Practical Training (OPT) plus 60 days, or termination of the program for other reasons.
• Students needing to extend their education program beyond the end date listed on their I-20 must contact their DSO at least 15 days before the program end date to request an extension.
• The I-20 form also allows for school transfer within the United States under specific conditions. The form must be updated by the DSO from the new school, and the transfer must be reported to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).