🇺🇸 United States

I-20 (Student Visa Certificate)

Required document from your US school for the F-1 student visa

Medium ~20 min StudentVisaF-1Education

/ What is this form?

The I-20 is issued by a SEVP-certified US school after you are admitted. You need it to apply for an F-1 student visa at a US embassy, enter the US, and maintain your student status. It shows your program dates, estimated costs, and funding.

/ Who needs this form?

International students admitted to a US school
Students transferring between US schools
Students applying for OPT or CPT work authorization

/ What you need before you start

Admission letter from school

Financial proof (bank statements showing sufficient funds)

Passport copy

Completed financial documentation form from your school

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Get Accepted to a SEVP School

Apply and get accepted to a SEVP-certified US school. This is a prerequisite for getting an I-20.

2 Submit Financial Documents

Submit bank statements or sponsor letters showing you can cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year.

3 School Issues I-20

Your school's international office will issue your I-20 once financial documentation is approved. This may take days to weeks.

4 Pay SEVIS Fee

Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) at fmjfee.com before your visa interview.

5 Apply for F-1 Visa

Bring your I-20 to the F-1 visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
SEVIS ID	Starts with N followed by 10 digits	This number stays with you throughout your US student career — do not lose it

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not paying the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) before the visa interview

Letting the I-20 expire without requesting extension

Not getting travel signature before leaving the US

/ Frequently asked questions

How do I get an I-20?

Your school issues it after admission and receiving your financial documents. You do not apply to the government directly.