Title: Can We Change I-20 After Visa Slot Booking? A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve already booked a visa slot but need to change your I-20 (e.g., due to a course change, program extension, or school-related updates), here’s what you need to know:
1. Can You Change I-20 After Visa Booking?
Yes, but only with your school’s approval. The I-20 is issued by your U.S. school, and only the school can update or reissue it.
Key requirements:
Submit a formal request to your school’s International Student Office (ISO).
Provide documentation supporting the change (e.g., new admission letter, updated course schedule, or proof of financial changes).
2. Impact on Your Visa Application
If the change is minor (e.g., address/phone number update):
Your existing visa slot remains valid. The consular officer will verify the new I-20 details during the interview.
If the change is significant (e.g., program duration, major, or school name):
You may need to reschedule your visa interview and reapply. The old I-20 becomes invalid, and the new one must be processed.
You’ll need to pay the 签证申请费 ( visa fee) again and book a new slot.
3. Steps to Update Your I-20
Contact Your ISO Immediately: Explain the reason for the change and request a new I-20.
Pay the I-20 SEVIS Fee (if required): Schools often charge a fee (~$350) for reissuing an I-20.
Receive the New I-20: The school will email you a PDF copy (print it and bring it to the visa interview).
Update SEVIS Record: The school will update your SEVIS record via the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS).
4. What If the Visa Interview Has Already Happened?
If you’ve already attended the visa interview:
If the change doesn’t affect your eligibility (e.g., minor updates), you may still enter the U.S. with the new I-20.
If the change is major (e.g., program termination), you’ll need to apply for a new visa and return to India for another interview.
5. Common Changes and Solutions
Change Type
Action Required
Course/Program Duration
Reissue I-20 → Reschedule visa interview if slot is still available.
School Name/Address
Reissue I-20 → No visa rescheduling needed (if no program changes).
Financial Proof
Reissue I-20 with updated proof → Visa officer may ask for new documents.
护照Number Error
Reissue I-20 with corrected passport number → Visa interview may be rescheduled.
6. Important Notes
Do not panic: Contact your ISO first—many issues can be resolved without rescheduling your visa.
SEVIS Compliance: Ensure your SEVIS record is updated to avoid entry denial.
Legal Advice: For complex cases (e.g., program discontinuation), consult an immigration attorney.
Final Tip:
If possible, reschedule your visa interview before the I-20 change to avoid delays. Schools often process I-20 updates within 1–3 business days.
For more details, visit USCIS I-20 guidelines or consult your school’s ISO.
Need further help? Ask in the comments! 🇺🇸🎓
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