The I-20 Form is a crucial document for international students who are getting ready to study in the United States. Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the I-20 is an official authorization that shows a student has been accepted by an American educational institution such as Language Systems International. This document is particularly important for obtaining a student visa (F-1) and staying in status.
The I-20 contains essential information about the student and their educational institution, including details about the study program, start and end dates of the course, and estimated costs for the academic period. It is issued by schools certified by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure that students are enrolled in federally recognized educational programs. LSI is a certificate school and you can see this information here.
LSI issues the I-20 and facilitates the SEVIS payment for international students studying abroad. Subsequently, LSI dispatches the document to the student, enabling them to attend the consulate interview and secure their student visa.
SEVIS, or the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is a U.S. government program managed by the Department of Homeland Security. It tracks and monitors international students and exchange visitors in the United States. Upon acceptance into a U.S. educational institution, students must pay the SEVIS fee before applying for a student visa. The fee supports the maintenance of accurate records for immigration compliance.
The I-20 Form is crucial for international students because it not only confirms acceptance into an American institution but also serves as a key piece in the process of obtaining a student visa. It is essential to keep the I-20 updated by informing the institution of any significant changes regarding the study program, financial status, or stay plan in the United States.
Even after obtaining the visa and being in the USA, the student needs to keep the I-20 updated while studying.
Therefore, for those about to embark on an educational journey in the United States, the I-20 represents more than just a simple document; it is the gateway to an enriching academic experience and legal stay in the country.
If you have questions about it, please, feel free to reach out! 🙂
