Welcome to the Academy of Our Lady of Peace! As an international student, there are important steps and documents you need to understand and complete before you begin your studies in the U.S. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the I-20 form and related processes.
1. What is an I-20?
The I-20 is a U.S. government document issued by the Academy of Our Lady of Peace that certifies you have been admitted to a full-time study program and have shown proof of sufficient financial resources to study in the United States. The I-20 is required for applying for an F-1 student visa and for entering the U.S. as a student.
2. How is the I-20 created?
After you are admitted to the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, you will need to submit financial documentation and other required forms to show you have the funds to support your studies. This information is entered into the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) by our International Student Services (ISS) office. Once your information is processed, the I-20 form will be created and signed by a Designated School Official (DSO). Your I-20 form will be emailed to you. The I-20 form will require your signature and your parent’s signature.
3. How do I use the I-20?
- Outside the U.S.: Once you receive your I-20, you must schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate to apply for an F-1 student visa. You will need both your F-1 visa and I-20 to enter the U.S.
- Inside the U.S.: After arriving in the U.S., your I-20 serves as proof of your legal status and enrollment. You may need to show it for various purposes such as applying for a Social Security Number (SSN), driver's license, or on-campus employment.
4. Do I need my I-20 when traveling?
Yes. If you travel abroad and plan to return to the U.S., you must carry your I-20 with you. Before leaving, ensure you get a travel endorsement from our ISS office, which will be signed on page 2 of your I-20. The endorsement is valid for one year and is required to re-enter the U.S.
5. Why do I have multiple I-20s?
You may receive a new I-20 if there are significant changes to your status, such as updates to your personal information, program dates, major, or if you are granted off-campus work authorization. Each new I-20 reflects any changes to your status or program.
6. What is the "Completion Date" on the I-20?
The completion date on your I-20 is an estimate of when you are expected to complete your studies. This date is based on your major and expected graduation timeline. If you need more time to finish your studies, you must request an extension from our ISS office before the completion date.
7. What happens after I finish my program?
Once you complete your studies, you have a 60-day grace period to either:
- Leave the U.S.,
- Transfer to another U.S. school,
- Apply for a change of visa status.
If you wish to stay in the U.S. for employment purposes (such as Optional Practical Training or OPT), you must apply for work authorization before the 60-day grace period ends.
8. What should I do if I lose my I-20?
If you lose your I-20, please contact your DSO (Designated School Official) Mr. Nelson Kim or Yordana Simpson immediately. We will issue a replacement I-20. If you are outside the U.S., you must obtain a new I-20 before you can re-enter the U.S.
9. Should I keep all copies of my I-20?
Yes. It is essential to keep all copies of your I-20 for future reference. You may receive updated versions throughout your time at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace due to changes in your program or status. Always use the most recent I-20 when traveling, applying for work, or making any official requests.
10. What is SEVIS?
SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is an internet-based system used by the U.S. government to track F-1 and M-1 visa holders. It monitors information about international students, including their enrollment status, address changes, program extensions, and employment. The Academy of Our Lady of Peace is SEVP-certified, which means we are authorized to issue I-20 forms to eligible international students.
11. What if I need to extend my stay or change my visa status?
If you need to extend your I-20 for additional study time or change your visa status (e.g., from F-1 to another type), please contact our ISS office at least one month before your current I-20 expires. We will help guide you through the process of requesting an extension or change of status.
12. Can I work while on an F-1 visa?
Yes, as an F-1 student, you can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks. For off-campus employment (e.g., internships or OPT), you must receive prior authorization from the ISS office and follow the U.S. government’s regulations.
13. What if my I-20 information needs to be updated?
If there are any changes to your personal information, such as your address, program of study, or major, inform the ISS office immediately. We will update your I-20 and ensure that your SEVIS record is correct.
If you have any additional questions or need assistance with the I-20 process, please do not hesitate to contact the Admissions Team at [email protected].
We are excited to welcome you to the Academy of Our Lady of Peace and support you throughout your academic journey!