Immigration Forms
The forms mentioned below are most commonly used by F-1 and J-1 students.
Form I-20
(Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 Student Status)
This is the form used for obtaining an F-1 visa, entering the U.S., transferring schools and informing the immigration office when you change programs or proceed to a higher degree. As an international student, you should be in possession of your I-20 at all times. This document is necessary to travel in and out of the U.S. while you are attending ESU. Form I-20 is a permanent record of your status. Before you leave the U.S. for temporary visits, you must have the I-20 endorsed by the Assistant Vice President of OIE. Keep this form in your passport. DO NOT surrender it when you leave the U.S.
Form DS-2019
(Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor-J-1 Status)
Students with J-1 visa status receive and use Form DS-2019. This form is a legal document and all of the information stated supplies official knowledge on a student's J-1 Status. The use of DS-2019 for other purposes than those mentioned below is illegal.
Specific Uses of Forms I-20 and DS-2019
- To apply for a U.S. entry visa at Consulate abroad.
- To allow a student to return to the U.S. after a trip abroad in which a Form I-94 is issued at the U.S. port of entry, showing a date known as the "legal period of stay." Most international students will receive D/S for "duration of status" on their I-94's instead of an actual date. This means that they are allowed to stay as long as they remain in status.
- To enable a student to transfer schools and to transfer to another exchange visitor program.
- To enable family members to travel separately.
- To enable a student to apply for Practical Training after completion of an academic degree.
Other Important USCIS Forms
Form I-539
Application to extend visitor visa, for change of status, and for reinstatement. $195 USCIS fee.
Form I-102
Application to replace lost arrival document. (See additional information under Replacing Lost I-94.) $155 USCIS fee.
Form I-134
Affidavit of support. No fee.
Form I-765
Application for Employment Authorization. $175 USCIS fee.
All of the forms mentioned above are available in the Office of International Education.
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Last Updated July 31, 2007