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Visa and I-20

A student acquires F-1 status using the Form I-20, in one of three ways:

1. TRANSFER OF CURRENT I20 TO SMCHS

Students with a current I20 and in status with SEVIS, may request to transfer their I20 to SMCHS from their current school.

2. TRAVEL AND RE-ENTRY

Use the Form I-20 issued by SMCHS and enter the United States with the I-20 and an F-1 visa obtained at a U.S. consulate abroad; or

3. CHANGE OF STATUS

Use the Form I-20 issued by SMCHS and apply to USCIS for change of nonimmigrant status (if the student is already in the United States and cannot travel). In choosing this option, you will not receive an F-1 visa, only F-1 status. This means that the first time you travel outside the U.S. while in F-1 status, you will have to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate in order to be able to return to SMCHS.

Acquiring A New Nonimmigrant Status