What documents will I receive after being accepted by an SEVP-certified school?
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What documents will I receive after being accepted by an SEVP-certified school?
You'll receive an admission letter confirming your acceptance and a Form I-20 (issued through SEVIS). You need the I-20 before you can pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for your F-1 visa.
What you’ll receive
Admission letter — confirms acceptance. Some schools require a deposit to hold your place.
Form I-20 — lists your program details and funding information; required for the SEVIS fee and visa application.
What you must provide first
Before issuing your I-20, the school usually needs a valid passport, proof of financial support, and information about any dependents who will accompany you. These ensure your I-20 is accurate.
RELATED RESOURCES
• What is Form I-20?
• What is the I-901 SEVIS fee?
• F-1 Visa Overview
