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DSOs: List the Correct Education Level on Forms I-20


October 19, 2016

Regulations require that all information captured in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), including information on a student’s Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” is complete and accurate.

As a designated school official (DSO), you must ensure that the education level listed on a student’s Form I-20 is correct. This information is particularly important to remember when a student transfers into your Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school.

If a student is accepted for transfer to your school, you must communicate with them to verify that their Form I-20:

  • Lists an education level that is offered by your school or program of study.
  • Lists a correct birth date as reflected in their passport.
  • Does not have any mistyped information or spelling mistakes.

If an education level or other information on a student’s Form I-20 is clearly incorrect, SEVP may issue a Remedial Action Plan (RAP), a reminder to correct the data.

If you receive a RAP, you must take the required action listed by the required date. Failure to respond or comply with the RAP may result in a Notice of Intent to Withdraw from SEVP.

To ensure accuracy of information and avoid receiving a RAP from SEVP, it is important to regularly verify that SEVIS data is correct for F and M students at your school.

Please also remember that providing materially false, fictitious or fraudulent information may subject you to criminal prosecution under 18 U.S.C. §1001. Other possible criminal and civil violations may also be applicable.

For more information about creating and registering a Form I-20 for a student that transfers into your school, visit the SEVIS Help Hub. You can also contact the SEVP Response Center if you have any case-specific questions.
 

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