What is a form I-20?

 A form I-20 is a legal document generally issued by a DSO (designated school official) when receiving acceptance to a school authorized by the government to admit international students.  This document is a tool that allows for you to schedule your you visa interview, and eventually enter the United States.

Your form I-20 should be treated similar to how you treat your passport, or drivers license. It is a legal document of great importance.  

Once in the United States the Form I-20 acts as an extension to your visa, providing many more important details about your stay in the USA. Any updates made to your I-20 directly connected to your Visa and record in the US. Here are some of the key features on your form I-20 that you need to know about:

• SEVIS ID number: This number begins with N00XXXXXXX
• School Name and School SEVIS code: This shows which school your SEVIS record is currently held at, as well as the schools code. (This is used for OPT application, and other similar applications)
• Program: Program start & end date: The end date is crucial because it is tied directly to your Visa and time your authorized stay in the USA.
• CPT work authorization: Start date/End date: As an international student if you work for more than 12 months full time on CPT you will be denied OPT. If you are interested in doing OPT make sure that you do not work more than 52 weeks.
• OPT work authorization: Start date/End Date: This will show the dates you are authorized to work on OPT.
• Financial documentation: Shows proof for the amount of financial support given and required for the school you are attending.

When and where do I use my form I-20?

The Form I-20 is used in many different situations. Whether you are applying for a new bank account, drivers licence, or social security number the Form I-20 is a common requirement.

It is important to note that form I20 can only be issued by school’s authorized to do so . This authorization comes from the US government. Namely SEVP (Student Exchange Visitor Program), USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) which are components of DHS (Department of Homeland Security).