Student Visas

Replace or Update Form I-20

Get a new or corrected student Form I-20.

We'll guide you through it, step by step

  • ✓Simple questions in plain language — no legal jargon
  • ✓We fill in the official form and check for common mistakes
  • ✓Private — no document uploads

Free to start • No credit card • Official form

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Estimated fee

No government fee

View official fee calculator ↗

Typical timeline

1 to 2 weeks (set by school)

Category

Student Visas

Who qualifies

F-1 or M-1 students enrolled in an SEVP-certified school with valid status who need document replacements, travel signatures, or program updates.

The step-by-step roadmap

  1. 1

    Notify Your School DSO

    Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) to report a lost, damaged, or outdated Form I-20.

    Watch out: Do not file a USCIS form to replace an I-20; only your DSO can issue it.
    Common rejection reason: Contacting immigration authorities instead of your school DSO.
  2. 2

    Submit Supporting Evidence

    Provide proof of the change, such as updated funding, a new major declaration, or a police report for theft.

    Watch out: Ensure financial documents are recent if your funding source has changed.
    Common rejection reason: Outdated bank statements or missing departmental approvals.
  3. 3

    DSO Updates SEVIS Record

    Your DSO reviews your request and updates your active profile inside the SEVIS database.

    Watch out: Verify your SEVIS ID stays the same when receiving an update or reprint.
    Common rejection reason: Accidental creation of a duplicate SEVIS record.
  4. 4

    Sign and Retain the New Form

    Download or collect the newly signed Form I-20, sign page 1 in ink, and keep your prior copies safely filed.

    Watch out: Never discard previous I-20 copies; you need them for future immigration filings.
    Common rejection reason: Traveling internationally without a physical signature on the document.

Documents you'll need

  • Valid Passport and Visa

    Clear copy of your current passport biometrics page and F-1 or M-1 visa stamp.

    Note: Passport should have at least 6 months of future validity.

  • Proof of Update Reason

    Documentation justifying the change, such as funding letters or change-of-major approvals.

    Note: Police incident report is recommended if your document was stolen.

  • Most Recent Form I-94

    Official arrival/departure record showing your lawful admission under F-1 or M-1 status.

    Note: Available online via the official CBP travel portal.

Ready to start?

Run the free eligibility check first, then get your personalized roadmap and document checklist.

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Fees and timelines are as published by the relevant agency and may change — verify before filing. This guide is general information, not legal advice.