I-20 Form

The Form I-20 (also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status for Academic and Language Students). Only institutions that are Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified can issue Form I-20’s. Once a prospective student has accepted the institutions offer of admission, the Designated School Official (DSO) will issue a Form I-20 to the student, which will provide supporting information on a student’s F or M status.

An institution can acquire SEVP certification by filing Form I-17 with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (one-time process). All dependents traveling to the United States will also need to file a Form I-20, too. The student must indicate to the DSO that he/she has dependents traveling with them. Once the student receives the Form I-20, they will need this form to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. The Form I-20 may also be used to change their status to an F or M visa classification while attending school in the United States, or applying for benefits available to F and M students.

Published on April 13, 2018

American English Language School (AELS) is a CEA-accredited and SEVP-approved English language school authorized to issue I-20 forms for international students. Located in Los Angeles, Orange County (Fullerton), and Irvine, California, AELS offers small classes, conversation-focused lessons, and proven results through individualized learning experiences. If you’re serious about improving your English, join AELS today!