What is Form I-20?
Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is the document a SEVP-certified US school issues to an international student. It supports the F-1 visa application and shows the program and dates. For OPT, a designated school official issues an updated I-20 with the work authorization recommendation.
Example
A student applying for OPT asks the designated school official for a new I-20 listing the recommendation. The student then applies to USCIS for an EAD.
Related
Related terms and guides
Sources
- Study in the States (DHS), Form I-20 and SEVIS, https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/prepare/students-and-the-form-i-20, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
- USCIS, Students and employment, https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/students-and-employment, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.