The I-20 form is a multipurpose document given to you by your US university stating that you have been granted admission to a full-time program. To get your I-20 form from your US university, you must prove your finances and mention that you can afford the education at the university.
Table of Contents:
- What is the I-20 Form?
- I-20 Form: F-1 and M-1 Student Visa
- I-20 Form Requirements
- I-20 Form Structure
- What to Do After Getting My I-20 Form?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is the I-20 Form?
The I-20 Form is a “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status” from accredited colleges or universities in the USA. The I-20 form is required for all international students applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa. Here’s why you need an I-20 form to enter in the US:
- The form proves that you are legally enrolled in a program in the USA
- It proves that you have enough money to afford your education at the university
- Required for applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa at a US embassy or consulate
- Required to get a social security number or a driver’s license
- Required to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
- Required while entering the USA by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer
I-20 Form: F-1 and M-1 Student Visa
You must have a student visa to study in the USA as an international student. Your course of study and type of university decide whether you need an F-1 or M-1 visa. The details are as follows:
| To enter the United States to attend | Visa Category Required |
| University or College | F-1 Visa |
| High School | |
| Private Elementary School | |
| Seminary | |
| Conservatory | |
| Another academic institution, including a language training program | |
| Vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution other than a language training program | M-1 Visa |
I-20 Form Requirements
The I-20 form is considered the most important student visa document. To request an I-20 form from your university, here are some documents that are required:
- Copy of Passport
- Proof of Funds, such as
- Official bank statement
- Loan sanction letter
- Financial sponsor statement form
- Scholarship Letter
- Financial aid letter
I-20 Form Structure
Your I-20 form is 3 pages long and contains all your information. Here’s an I-20 form sample structure:
| Page | Details |
| Page 1 |
|
| Page 2 |
|
| Page 3 | Instructions to Students and Schools |
What to Do After Getting My I-20 Form?
You have received your I-20 form from your university, and you are confused about what to do next. Don’t worry, follow these steps:
Step 1: Read your I-20 form thoroughly and check for any mistakes. Check your name, program of study, program start and end dates, country of birth and citizenship, date of birth, and financial information. If any errors are there, inform your university immediately.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $350. The SEVIS ID is unique and is recorded in the US government database. Each I-20 has a different SEVIS ID. Save your SEVIS fee payment receipt for your visa appointment.
Step 3: Complete your DS-160 form. As the form contains all your information and is very long, it usually takes 90 minutes to complete.
Step 4: You must find your visa slot and appear for your visa interview (F-1 or M-1).
Step 5: Prepare all the necessary documents such as proof of funds, DS-160 and I-20 form, SEVIS fee payment receipt, copy of passport, and photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long it takes to get the I-20 form?
Once you have submitted your necessary documents to the university, the processing time is 1-2 weeks to get your I-20 form. However, the time may vary depending on your university and the city you are living in.
What is the grace period for the I-20 form?
Students have a 60-day grace period. During these 60 days, students can depart the country, request a school transfer, or change their visa status.
Is a bank statement required for the I-20 form?
Your bank statement is required as proof of funds for the I-20 form. A bank official must sign the bank statement dated within 6 months of the intended semester of admission.
Can my I-20 form be rejected?
Your I-20 form can be rejected if you fail to submit the necessary documents and proof as required by your university. To ensure that your I-20 form does not get rejected, check the documents thoroughly before submitting.
Do I need to pay any I-20 Form fee?
No, but once you receive the I-20 form, you must pay the SEVIS, aka Student and Exchange Visitor Information System fee of $350.
