Important Documents

I-20

I-20 is also known as a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status-For Academic and Language Students. It is a document issued by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) certified schools (colleges, universities, and vocational schools) that provides supporting information on a student's F status. Since the introduction of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) run by SEVP, the form also includes the student tracking number (SEVIS ID number) and school code. The Form I-20 is only for F-1 and F-2 statuses. Always maintain all of your I-20 documents in a safe place and do not destroy any previous versions. Carry only the most recent one with you when you travel.

Students must have their I-20 updated immediately (within 10 days) if the following events occur:
• Change in address: local, on-campus or home (Information is visible in your electronic SEVIS record, not on your document)
• Declaring or changing a major or minor
• Change in program level: bachelor's, master's, Doctorate
• Change in program end date: either completing sooner or extending your program

After you get your updated I-20:
• Do not destroy any previous I-20 documents. You will need them in the future for U.S. government filings.
• Place your old I-20 documents in a safe place. The College does not have copies of your old forms.
• Do not carry the new and old I-20 together. If you lose one of them, you lose all of them.

DS-2019

The Form DS-2019 or "Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status" is the basic document used in the administration of the exchange visitor program. This form permits a prospective exchange visitor to seek an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in order to obtain a J visa to enter the U.S. The Form DS-2019 identifies the exchange visitor and their designated sponsor and provides a brief description of the exchange visitor’s program, including the start and end date, category of exchange, and an estimate of the cost of the exchange program. An exchange student may only engage in activities listed on the DS-2019. For more information, please visit the U.S. State Department's Exchange Visitor Program.

It is important that you take the time to review your I-20 or DS-2019 to confirm that your information is correct and up-to-date.