Understanding Your I-20
The I-20 is a multi-purpose document issued by a U.S. government-approved educational institution certifying that a student has been admitted to a full-time study program and has demonstrated sufficient financial resources to stay in the United States. The I-20 is officially titled the “Certificate of Eligibility” because it allows an individual to apply for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
How is an I-20 created?
After a school completes the admissions process, it collects necessary financial support and identification documentation for admitted international students requesting F-1 status. Those student names and biographic information are entered into a U.S. government database called SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). SEVIS processes the information and produces an I-20. The school official (called the Designated School Official or DSO) processes and signs the I-20 and then delivers it to the student. If a student needs to update or change information on their I-20, the DSO makes these requests through SEVIS to produce a new document.
I-20 Electronic Delivery
As of October 12, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (link is external) allows I-20s to be signed and distributed electronically by Designated School Officials (DSOs). If you receive an electronically signed I-20, you must print out the I-20 and carry a physical copy when using it for travel or other official purposes. As always- be sure to keep all old I-20s for your records, but use the newest version for travel or other purposes.
Do all students need I-20s?
No. If a student is maintaining a status in the United States other than F-1, an I-20 is not needed. Dependent children in E, H, I, J, L, M, N, 0, P, R, or S status must change status after their 21st birthday. Students who are at NLU in a dependent child status and approaching their 21st birthday should contact their DSO for information about changing their nonimmigrant status to F-1.
How is the I-20 used?
Outside the U.S.: After receiving an I-20 from a school, an international student must make an appointment to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate (the visa is needed to be allowed entry into the United States in F-1 status). Students must present both the F-1 visa and the I-20 to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer upon arrival at the U.S. port-of-entry.
Inside the U.S.: Once a student has arrived in the United States and passes through the border inspections process (either at an airport, seaport, or land border), the I-20 is used as identification and proof of legal and academic status. Typically, students must show their I-20 at the Social Security Office and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The I-20 is also shown to employers in the hiring process for employment. Off-campus employment information and/or authorization will be printed on page 2 of the I-20.
Do I need the I-20 for travel?
When traveling abroad, students must take their I-20 with them. The I-20 is required to reapply for a visa (if needed) and for re-entering the United States. Before departure from the United States, students should verify that they have a valid travel endorsement on page 2 of their I-20 from their DSO. This signature is valid for one year for multiple visits outside the United States. In most cases, a travel endorsement can be done quickly and easily at NLU’s ISSS, however students should plan ahead and get their travel endorsement several weeks before departing the United States to avoid the holiday rush.
Why do I have multiple I-20s?
New I-20s are issued to continuing students whenever there is a significant update to a student's record. This includes changes in biographical data, program dates, change of major, the addition of a work authorization, etc. These types of changes are typically prompted by student request.
What is the I-20 completion date?
The "completion date" is entered in the Program Start/End Date section of the I-20 based on a student's particular major and degree level. This is an estimate of time the University feels it may take to fulfill all degree requirements. However, if a student is not able to finish the program on that date, an extension must be requested at least one month before the completion date expires.
According to U.S. immigration regulations, the "completion date" is defined as the day final degree requirements are completed. The actual completion date may not necessarily be the day of the graduation ceremony or the date on the I-20. (In fact, many students actually finish degree requirements before the completion date on the I-20).
The 60-day Grace Period
When students complete a study program, they are allowed a 60-day grace period to either 1) depart the United States, 2) request a school transfer, or 3) change visa status.
Note: Students who are interested in working in the United States following their program completion must apply for Optional Practical Training work authorization before the expiration of the 60-day grace period.
What happens if I lose my I-20?
Please contact your DSO to request a replacement I-20. Please note that if you are outside the United States, you must obtain the replacement I-20 before entering the U.S. to resume your studies.
Should I keep all copies of my I-20s?
Yes. You may obtain several different versions of your I-20s while you are in the United States if there are changes to your program or other information. Keep all copies for future reference. Always use the most recently issued I-20 for travel, work, or other purposes. Which one is the most recent? Check the Date Issued under the School Attestation section.
Do my family members need I-20s?
If you will be accompanied by your spouse and children, they will each need their own I-20 to obtain the F-2 dependent visas and to remain in the United States during your program and for travel purposes.
