Blank I 20 PDF Form

Document Preview

Form Specifications

I 20: Usage Guidelines

Your Questions, Answered

Common mistakes

Documents used along the form

Similar forms

Dos and Don'ts

Misconceptions

Key takeaways

⇨

The I-20 form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is a crucial document issued by U.S. educational institutions. It verifies that an international student has been accepted into a full-time program and is eligible to apply for a student visa. Understanding how to properly fill out this form is essential for anyone looking to study in the United States; click the button below to get started.

Article Guide

The I-20 form is a crucial document for international students wishing to study in the United States. This form, officially known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is issued by a designated school official and confirms that a student has been accepted into a program of study. It includes important information such as the student's name, country of birth, and program details, including the start and end dates of the academic program. The I-20 also outlines the financial responsibilities of the student, detailing estimated costs for tuition, living expenses, and other fees. It serves as a key requirement for obtaining an F-1 visa and must be presented during the visa application process. Additionally, the I-20 form is essential for maintaining legal student status in the U.S., as it must be kept up to date with any changes in the student's situation, such as transfers between schools or changes in program duration. Understanding the significance of the I-20 form is vital for any nonimmigrant student to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations and to successfully navigate their educational journey in the country.

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

➤ PDF File

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The I-20 form certifies eligibility for nonimmigrant student status in the U.S., allowing students to apply for an F-1 visa.
SEVIS ID	Each I-20 form has a unique SEVIS ID, which is crucial for tracking students in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.
Required Documents	Students must present the I-20 form, a valid passport, and an F-1 visa at the port of entry into the United States.
Full-Time Enrollment	Maintaining full-time enrollment is essential for preserving F-1 status. This typically means taking a minimum number of credit hours.
Employment Authorization	Students may work on-campus without special authorization. Off-campus work requires approval through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Travel Endorsement	The I-20 must be endorsed for re-entry if a student leaves the U.S. This endorsement is valid for one year.
Extension Requests	If a student cannot complete their program by the end date on the I-20, they must request an extension at least 15 days prior to that date.
Transfer Procedures	To transfer schools, students must notify their current school and obtain a new I-20 from the school they wish to attend.
Address Reporting	Students must report their U.S. address to their Designated School Official (DSO) within 10 days of moving.
Legal Compliance	Failure to comply with the terms of the I-20 can lead to loss of student status and potential deportation.

Filling out the I-20 form is a crucial step in your journey as a nonimmigrant student in the United States. After completing this form, you will be able to apply for your student visa and begin your educational experience. It's essential to ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as this will impact your ability to study in the U.S.

Gather Required Information: Before starting, collect all necessary documents, including your passport, acceptance letter from the school, and financial statements.
Fill Out Personal Information: Start with your surname and given name. Include any preferred name and passport name if applicable. Make sure to enter your country of birth and country of citizenship accurately.
Provide Academic Details: Indicate your class of admission (F-1), date of birth, admission number, and the reason for your application. Fill in your school information, including the school name, address, and the school official to contact upon arrival.
Enter Program Information: Specify your program of study, education level, and major(s). Be sure to include details about your English proficiency and any notes related to it.
Financial Information: Estimate your average costs for tuition, living expenses, and any dependents. Make sure to provide a total amount for the estimated costs.
Review and Sign: Carefully review all the information you've entered for accuracy. Once confirmed, sign the student attestation section, ensuring that you understand the terms and conditions of your admission.
Parent or Guardian Signature: If you are under 18, ensure that a parent or guardian also signs the form. Include their name and address as required.
Submit the Form: Once completed and signed, submit the I-20 form to your designated school official for final processing and issuance.

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 confirms that a student has been accepted into a U.S. school and is eligible for an F-1 visa. This form is issued by the designated school official (DSO) and is necessary for applying for a student visa, entering the U.S., and maintaining student status while studying.

How do I obtain an I-20 form?

To receive an I-20 form, you must first apply and be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. Once accepted, the school will review your application and financial documentation. If everything meets the requirements, the DSO will issue the I-20 form. It’s essential to ensure that all information is accurate and complete before signing the form.

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

If you lose your I-20 form, you must contact your DSO immediately to request a replacement. It’s important to have the I-20 on hand at all times, as it is required for various processes, including visa applications and re-entry into the U.S. The DSO will issue a new form based on your current status and information.

Can I work while on an I-20?

Yes, you can work while on an I-20, but there are specific rules. On-campus employment is generally allowed without additional authorization. For off-campus work, you must obtain written permission from your DSO and, in some cases, apply for authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This includes situations like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). Always consult your DSO for guidance on employment opportunities.

What happens if I do not maintain my student status?

If you fail to maintain your student status, it can lead to serious consequences, including deportation. You must remain a full-time student and comply with all visa regulations. If you encounter issues, such as needing to reduce your course load or extend your program, contact your DSO promptly to discuss your options and avoid jeopardizing your status.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an I-20?

Your stay in the U.S. is tied to your I-20 form and program end date. You can remain in the country for the duration of your studies and for an additional 60 days after your program ends. This grace period allows you time to prepare for departure or to apply for a change of status. However, you must adhere to all regulations during this time to maintain your status.

What should I do if I want to transfer to another school?

If you wish to transfer schools, you need to inform your current DSO of your plans. After that, you must apply to the new school and obtain a new I-20 form from them. Once you have the new I-20, return it to the DSO at your new school within 15 days of starting classes there. It's crucial to follow these steps to ensure a smooth transfer and maintain your student status.

Incorrect Personal Information: Many individuals mistakenly enter incorrect details such as their name, date of birth, or country of citizenship. This can lead to significant issues with their visa application.
Missing Signatures: Failing to sign the form, or having the wrong person sign, is a common error. Both the student and, if applicable, a parent or guardian must provide their signatures.
Inaccurate Financial Information: Some applicants do not accurately report their financial resources. It is crucial to provide truthful estimates of tuition, living expenses, and any other financial obligations.
Not Updating Information: Students often forget to update their I-20 form when there are changes in their academic program or personal circumstances, such as a change of address or school transfer.
Ignoring Instructions: Many overlook the detailed instructions provided with the I-20 form. Understanding these guidelines is essential for proper completion and submission of the document.

The I-20 form is a crucial document for nonimmigrant students in the United States, but it often accompanies other important forms and documents. These documents provide additional information and support for the student's application and status. Below is a list of commonly used forms that work alongside the I-20.

Visa Application (Form DS-160): This online form is required for nonimmigrant visa applicants. It collects personal information, travel plans, and background details. The completed form must be submitted before attending a visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
Passport: A valid passport is essential for international travel. It serves as proof of identity and nationality. Students must ensure their passport remains valid throughout their stay in the U.S.
Financial Support Documents: These documents demonstrate the student's ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. They may include bank statements, scholarship letters, or affidavits of support from sponsors.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If a student wishes to work in the U.S. under specific conditions, they must apply for an EAD. This document grants permission to work legally and is essential for students seeking off-campus employment.

Understanding these additional forms and documents is vital for maintaining student status and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. Proper preparation can lead to a smoother experience for nonimmigrant students navigating their educational journey in the United States.

Form DS-160: This is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. Like the I-20, it is essential for students applying for a visa to study in the U.S. Both documents require accurate personal information and confirm eligibility for entry into the United States.
Form I-94: This Arrival/Departure Record is issued to nonimmigrants upon entry to the U.S. It serves as proof of legal status, similar to how the I-20 certifies a student's eligibility to study. Both documents must be kept safe and presented when required.
Form I-539: This form is used to apply for an extension of stay or change of status. Like the I-20, it is crucial for maintaining legal status in the U.S. Both documents require a clear demonstration of the applicant's intent and compliance with immigration regulations.
Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. It is relevant for students seeking work authorization in the U.S. Both the I-20 and I-765 play vital roles in ensuring that students can legally work while studying, provided they meet specific criteria.

When filling out the I-20 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Below is a list of ten things to do and not do during this process.

Do read all instructions carefully before starting the form.
Do provide accurate and complete information for all required fields.
Do ensure that your name matches your passport exactly.
Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
Do consult your designated school official (DSO) if you have questions.

Don't leave any required fields blank; this could delay processing.
Don't submit false information or documents; this can lead to severe penalties.
Don't forget to sign and date the form where required.
Don't use abbreviations or nicknames for your name.
Don't ignore deadlines for submitting the form to your DSO.

Misconception 1: The I-20 form is only needed for visa applications.

This is incorrect. The I-20 form is essential not only for visa applications but also for entry into the U.S. as a student. It proves that you have been accepted into a program of study.

Misconception 2: Once I receive my I-20, I can stay in the U.S. indefinitely.

This is false. The I-20 allows you to stay in the U.S. only as long as you maintain your student status and comply with the terms of your admission. You must leave by the program end date or apply for an extension if needed.

Misconception 3: I can work freely in the U.S. with an I-20.

This is misleading. You can only work under specific conditions. On-campus employment is allowed, and off-campus work requires authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Misconception 4: I don’t need to report my address changes if I have an I-20.

This is not true. You must report any change of address to your DSO within 10 days. Failure to do so can lead to complications with your immigration status.

Misconception 5: The I-20 form is only for new students.

This is incorrect. The I-20 is also used for students transferring schools, changing programs, or applying for practical training. It is a crucial document throughout your educational journey in the U.S.

Misconception 6: I can ignore the I-20 if I plan to leave the U.S. temporarily.

This is a mistake. If you plan to leave and return, ensure your I-20 is properly endorsed for reentry by your DSO. Without this endorsement, you may face issues upon your return.

Misconception 7: I can use an expired I-20.

This is false. An expired I-20 is not valid for any immigration purposes. Always ensure your I-20 is up-to-date, and request a new one if necessary.

SIGNATURE OF:

NAME OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN

ADDRESS (city/state or province/country) DATE

Filling out and using the I-20 form is a crucial step for international students seeking to study in the United States. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

Understand the Purpose: The I-20 form certifies your eligibility for nonimmigrant student status and is essential for applying for an F-1 visa.
Keep It Safe: Always carry your I-20 form with you. If lost, request a replacement from your designated school official (DSO) immediately.
Report to Your School: Upon entering the U.S., report to the DSO at your school as soon as possible to confirm your attendance.
Employment Regulations: You may work on campus or seek off-campus employment only with proper authorization. Unauthorized work can jeopardize your student status.
Maintain Valid Status: Remain a full-time student and comply with all regulations to avoid losing your F-1 status.
Update Your Address: Notify your DSO of any address changes within 10 days to keep your records current.

These points highlight the importance of the I-20 form in maintaining your student status and ensuring a smooth educational experience in the United States.