Planning to study in the United States? Then you’ll need to understand one essential document before anything else: the Form I-20.
This form is your official ticket to becoming an international student. It proves your eligibility, helps you apply for a student visa in the USA, and allows you to maintain legal status once you arrive.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain what the I-20 is, why it matters, who needs it, how to get it, and how to keep your status valid throughout your studies.
What Is the Form I-20 and Why Is It Important?
The Form I-20 is a document issued by a SEVP-certified school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) in the United States. It confirms that you have been accepted into a full-time academic program and are eligible to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Think of the I-20 as your personal academic passport. It contains key details about your program, start and end dates, tuition costs, and financial support. Without it, you cannot enter the U.S. as a student or legally stay enrolled in your program.
Every international student must have an active I-20 while studying in the U.S. It’s also required when applying for a visa, renewing your status, or traveling outside the country.
Who Needs a Form I-20?
Any student who wants to study full-time in the United States under an F-1 visa must obtain an I-20. This includes students enrolling in:
- English language programs (like those at Language Systems)
- High schools or colleges
- Universities or graduate programs
- Vocational or technical schools
If you’re transferring from another U.S. institution, you’ll still need a new I-20 from your new school after your SEVIS record is transferred.
Dependents (spouse or children) who accompany you under an F-2 visa will also receive their own I-20s, connected to yours.
How to Get Your Form I-20
The process begins after you are accepted into a SEVP-certified school, such as Language Systems International. Once you confirm your admission and provide proof of financial support, the school will issue your I-20.
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- Acceptance letter from your chosen school.
- Proof of sufficient funds — bank statements or sponsor letters showing you can pay for tuition and living expenses.
- Passport copy — valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Completed application forms requested by the school.
After reviewing your documents, the school will issue your Form I-20 through the SEVIS system (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). You’ll then receive either a printed or digital copy, which you must sign before using it in your visa application.
Key Information Included in the Form I-20
Your I-20 is more than a simple form; it’s a record of your entire academic life in the U.S.
Here’s what it includes:
- Your SEVIS ID number: The SEVIS Number is a unique ID that starts with N and has 10 digits (e.g., N1234567890). It’s found on the top right of your I-20 and is used for paying the SEVIS fee, applying for the F-1 visa, and entering the U.S.
- School information: Name, address, and SEVIS identification number of your institution.
- Program details: Major or field of study, level (e.g., English language, undergraduate, graduate), and program dates.
- Estimated costs: Tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Financial resources: How you’ll fund your studies (personal, family, sponsor, or scholarship).
- Student signature: Your confirmation that all details are accurate.
It’s crucial to review every section carefully. Even small errors can delay your student visa in the USA or cause problems later when you renew your status.
Using the Form I-20 to Apply for an F-1 Visa
Once you have your I-20, you’re ready to begin your F-1 visa application process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Visit fmjfee.com and pay the mandatory SEVIS fee linked to your I-20’s SEVIS ID. Keep the receipt — you’ll need it for your visa interview. NOTE: At LSI, usually, the student pays this fee for us ($350), and we complete the process. After that, we send the SEVIS fee receipt for the student with the I-20 and the acceptance letter.
2. Complete the DS-160 form
This official online visa application is on the U.S. Department of State website. The form must be filled out carefully. The student should explain how learning English will impact their life—professionally or personally—why studying English abroad is important, and show strong ties to their home country. After all, the F1 visa is a study visa, not a residence visa.
3. Schedule your visa interview
Book an appointment at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
4. Prepare your documents
- Passport
- I-20 form (signed)
- SEVIS fee receipt
- DS-160 confirmation
- Financial documents
- Acceptance letter
5. Attend your interview
The consular officer will review your case and decide if you qualify for the F-1 visa. Be ready to discuss your study plans, finances, and reasons for choosing the U.S.
Once your visa is approved, you can travel to the United States up to 30 days before your program start date listed on the I-20.
Maintaining Your Status with the Form I-20
Having an F-1 visa is just the beginning. To stay in good standing, you must follow all the immigration rules connected to your I-20.
Here are the most important ones:
Keep your I-20 valid
Never let your I-20 expire while studying. If your program ends later than expected, ask your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) for an extension before expiration.
Enroll full-time
You must maintain full-time enrollment each term unless authorized otherwise by your DSO.
Report any changes
If you move, change your major, or transfer schools, you must update your I-20 within 10 days. This keeps your SEVIS record accurate and avoids visa issues.
Do not work without authorization
Working off-campus without approval can lead to serious immigration problems. Always consult your DSO before accepting any job.
Traveling abroad
Whenever you travel outside the U.S., ensure your I-20 is signed for travel by your DSO. This signature is valid for one year (or six months if on OPT).
Maintaining your I-20 status is the key to enjoying your academic life in the United States without interruptions.
What to Do If You Lose or Need to Update Your I-20
Losing your I-20 or needing an update isn’t uncommon, but it must be handled properly.
Here’s what to do:
- Contact your DSO immediately. They can issue a replacement I-20 or make the necessary corrections.
- Provide updated documents if the change affects finances, address, or study plans.
- Do not travel or apply for visas with an outdated or missing I-20. Always carry the latest version.
Common updates include:
- Change of major or academic level
- Program extension or completion
- New source of financial support
- Transfer to another institution
Keeping your I-20 accurate ensures your SEVIS record stays active and compliant.
Can You Have Multiple I-20s?
Yes, but only under specific circumstances. If you study at different schools or programs (for example, transferring from an English program to a university), you might receive a new I-20 for each institution.
However, you can only have one active I-20 at a time. When transferring, your previous SEVIS record must be released to the new school before your new form is issued. Always coordinate with both schools’ DSOs to ensure the transition is smooth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with the Form I-20
Even small errors or delays can create visa issues. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Not signing the I-20 before your visa interview.
- Forgetting to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (In case the students decide pay by.themselves)
- Entering the U.S. with the wrong version of your I-20.
- Letting your form expire before completing your studies.
- Failing to update address or academic changes in SEVIS.
Being proactive and organized will help you avoid unnecessary stress and delays.
Frequently Asked Questions about the I-20
Is the I-20 the same as a student visa?
No. The I-20 is issued by your school, while the visa is issued by the U.S. embassy or consulate. You need the I-20 to apply for the visa.
What is the I-20 “interstate”?
Sometimes people confuse “I-20” with “Interstate 20,” a major highway in the U.S. They’re completely different things! In this context, I-20 always refers to the immigration document for students.
How long does it take to get an I-20?
It usually takes one to two weeks after submitting all required documents to your school.
Can I enter the U.S. without my I-20?
No. You must present your signed I-20 at the port of entry to be admitted as an F-1 student.
Do I need a new I-20 after graduation?
Yes, if you’re applying for OPT (Optional Practical Training) or starting a new academic program. This situation applies to universities.
Final Tips for International Students
- Keep both digital and printed copies of your I-20 in a safe place.
- Always check your program dates and request extensions early if needed.
- Stay in touch with your DSO — they’re your best ally for visa-related questions.
- Review the official information from Study in the States to stay up-to-date.
For students who are already in the United States, we always recommend that they keep a copy or photo of their documents — the passport, visa, and I-20 — either in hand or on their phone. In addition, students who have completed a change of status should also carry proof of their approved status, such as the approval notice.
Start Your U.S. Study Journey with Confidence
Understanding your Form I-20 is one of the most important steps in preparing to study in the United States. It ensures your eligibility, supports your student visa in the USA, and helps you maintain legal status throughout your academic journey.
At Language Systems International, we specialize in welcoming students from all around the world to our English language programs in California.
If you’re ready to improve your English, experience American culture, and study in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world — start your application today and get your I-20 with the guidance of our experienced admissions team.
