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Understanding the I-20 Form: Eligibility, Application and Benefits

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What is i20 form

Table of contents

Understanding What is I20 Form
Why is the I20 Form Important for Abroad Studies?
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the I20 US Visa Form
Key Benefits of Having I-20 Form for US Visa
Mistakes to Avoid During the I-20 Process
Conclusion 
Your anticipation will be sky-high while waiting to be accepted by the institute of your choice, while applying to study abroad in the USA. Once you are confirmed, there will be some important paperwork to be completed to proceed with the enrolment process, and one such process is filling in the I-20 form. Now you may question what is I-20 form is. Let us delve into the legibility, application and benefits of this form in this blog as it will help you while you apply for abroad studies.
Why is the I20 Form Important for Abroad Studies_

Understanding What is I-20 Form

The I-20 form is issued as an important document by a SEVP-certified education institute in the US, where you have applied for study abroad options for your preferred course. This form certifies that your admission is through for the study program, and you have also disclosed enough financial resources to stay in the US during your period of study.

This form is officially called the “Certificate of Eligibility for non-immigrant student status”, a mandatory document that allows international students to apply for a U.S. visa under the F-1 or M-1 category at a US embassy or Consulate.

Why is the I-20 Form Important for Abroad Studies?

An SEVP-certified school ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws, which is a vital aspect of your application. Let us see how the I-20 visa USA process can help here-
  • The fees for the Student and Exchange Visitors Information System (SEVIS) have to be paid before entering the US borders. It asks for the SEVIS identification number and the School Code mentioned in the I-20 form to pay the fees.
  • If you have an 1-20 Visa form issued, you can also apply for an F-1 or M-1 student visa using it and with the same name format mentioned on both and will be allowed to enter the US with valid I-20 Form along with a student visa.
  • During the US Visa interview, the original I-20 form should be taken along with you as it helps in maintaining your legal status as an international student studying in the US.

Who can apply for I-20 Form?

Any international student who has been enrolled and accepted into the student exchange program through a certified SEVP school is eligible to apply for the I-20 visa USA form through the US embassy in their country and has to be kept carefully throughout their course of study.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the I20 US Visa Form

  • 1. Get Admitted to a SEVP-Certified School
  • Submit applications to your designated US schools eligible to issue the form.
  • Once admitted, the institution will start your I-20 form process that can be obtained once processed
  • 2. Provide Required Documentation
  • Passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
  • Proof of financial support like bank statements, sponsor letters, loan disbursement certificate or scholarship awards will help in credibility.
  • Academic records of transcripts and certificates of your latest qualifications.
  • Standardized test scores and other scores like IELTS or TOEFL.
  • 3. Pay the SEVIS Fee
  • Through the SEVIS ID, use the form to pay the fee, and as of 2024, the SEVIS fee for F and M visa categories is $350 each.
  • 4. Applying finally for the I20 Visa Issue
  • You have to fix an appointment for an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your original country.
  • Submitting other documents like the nonimmigrant or DS-160 form and attending the visa interview with your I-20 form and supporting documents is the last process.

Key Benefits of Having I-20 Form for US Visa

  • The I-20 visa USA issued form helps to make the SEVIS Registration and maintain your legal student status.
  • Makes your visa application a smooth process as I-20 US visa form becomes a critical document.
  • You are then eligible for internship or employment opportunities are many and open doors to you as you become eligible for on-campus jobs, CPT or Curricular Practical Training, OPT or Optional Practical Training as major opportunities.
  • The I-20 form allows students to travel internationally during their study period, ensuring to follow immigration rules as it helps in gaining exposure and may help in their course

Mistakes to Avoid During the I-20 Process

  • Submitting Incorrect Documents Double-check your financial proofs and academic records
  • Delays in SEVIS Fee Payment Ensure you pay the SEVIS fee promptly to avoid visa interview issues
  • Not Updating I-20 Details Inform your school about any changes to your program, address, or status
Mistakes to Avoid During the I-20 Process 2

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Conclusion: 

You will no longer have the fear of visa rejection or being unaware of ‘what is I-20 form is’ and its requirements. This blog gives you a complete understanding of studying abroad with careful planning, adherence to immigration regulations, and having the right documentation. You may also approach financial providers like Qck Loans to support you with knowing about the process and for applying for the same, as they are the leading financial providers for abroad studies.

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