Upon the completion of the admissions process, student information is entered into the database of the US Board of Education. Subsequently, the university generates the I-20 file and forwards it back to the institution. The university's administrative team then commences the registration process, adhering to established requirements. Depending on the student's nationality and status, additional documentation may be necessary.
The I-20 contains a projected completion date based on the student's chosen major and degree level. Should a student find themselves unable to meet this deadline, they must request an extension from the US Board of Education Advisor office at least one month prior to its expiration. This completion date signifies the day when all final degree requirements are met. Subsequently, document processing and permit applications are handled through the university and the US Board of Education.
Once within the United States, the I-20 functions as a form of identification and proof of legal status. It may also be required by employers for employment purposes, with details regarding off-campus employment printed on the second page. Career counselors play a vital role in assisting students in finding suitable employment opportunities tailored to their skills and preferences, thus facilitating a successful stay in the United States.
For undergraduate students, the process of obtaining the I-20 and visa revolves around the completion date, which is typically the last day of final exams for the semester when all degree requirements are met.
For graduate students without a research component in their degree program, such as those enrolled in MBA programs or other professional schools, the completion date aligns with the last day of final exams for the semester when all degree requirements are satisfied.
Upon completing your program, a 15-day grace period is allotted for various activities, including travel to the United States, requesting credit transfers, or changing your status. It's important to note that students interested in working in the U.S. after program completion must apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization at least 30 days before their program's actual completion date. Your career counselor at the time of graduation will guide you through this process. The university's legal department will handle all paperwork required for applying for the work permit after graduation.
To enter the United States, all international candidates must possess the appropriate visa stamp in their passports. This stamp specifies the purpose of travel and is accompanied by a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for traveling. The NOC is applied for before departure through the US Board of Education by the university's attorney.
The expiration date on your visa does not dictate the duration of your stay in the U.S. A visa solely serves as an entry document. Once you are in the United States, various other factors determine the length of your stay. If your primary objective is to apply for nationality, it is imperative to inform your counselor before traveling. This allows for the arrangement of necessary documents and paperwork. Through job fairs and placement programs, students can secure employment opportunities that meet the minimum requirement of 18 months, paving the way towards obtaining a green card and ultimately completing the American citizenship program based on the grounds that best suit the student's profile.
