What is a Form I-20 and why do I need it for a US student visa?

Form I-20 is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. It is issued by your SEVP-certified (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) US school and is the key document that enables you to apply for an F-1 student visa and enter the United States as an international student.

The I-20 contains important information including your name and date of birth, your SEVIS ID number, your school's name and SEVIS ID, your program of study and degree level, your expected start and end dates, and the financial resources you need to support yourself.

Your SEVIS ID number, which appears on the I-20, is required to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (USD $350) — which must be paid before your visa interview. Without a valid I-20 from an SEVP-certified school, you cannot apply for an F-1 visa.

Protect your I-20 carefully — it is a legal immigration document. You will need it each time you re-enter the United States after travel abroad, when applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and for other immigration purposes during your studies.

If your circumstances change (you extend your program, change schools, or change your degree level), your Designated School Official (DSO) must issue a new or updated I-20.

Contact your university's international student office (or International Services Office) for all questions about your I-20.