How to Get I-20 from USA Universities (Guide for Nepali Students)

For the benefit of the Nepali students which are headed to study in the U.S. the issue of obtaining an I-20 from a U.S. university is of great importance in the total application process. The I-20 is a requirement to get a F-1 student visa, to pay the SEVIS fee, and to enter the U.S. as a legal international student.

This guide we go over how Nepali students get that I-20, what documents are required, what in terms of financial proof is needed, we also cover the timelines and also put in some practical tips to make the process easier.

What is an I-20 and why do Nepali students require it?

SEVP approved institutions issue the Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status). It states that:.

You are enrolled in a full time academic program.

The university is authorized to enroll international students.

You have the funds for your studies and living expenses.

You may apply for an F-1 student visa.

Without the I-20 form, the US visa application process is out of the question for the students.

Process of Obtaining I-20 from USA Universities.

1. Choose approved by SEVP institutions in the USA.

First we identify which universities are certified under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Only SEVP approved institutions may issue an I-20.

Nepalese students usually apply to a mix of public and private colleges as well as community colleges which we see to be a choice based on financial situation and academic background. At this also many students turn to the guidance of experienced counselors at NIEC which is put forth by many to be the best consultancy in Nepal for the USA due to their extensive university network and application support.

2. Put together Academic Papers.

To enter and then get an I-20 students are to present academic documents which include:.

SEE / SLC certificates

+2 transcripts and certificates

Bachelor’s degree transcripts (for Master’s applicants)

Provisional certificates

Valid passport

Ensuring it is key to get documents right as we see that mistakes delay admission or I-20 issuance.

3. Satisfy the English Language Requirement.

In the US it is required that you prove your English proficiency. Which also includes:.

IELTS

TOEFL

Duolingo English Test (DET)

PTE (for selected institutions)

Typical minimum scores: Common lowest scores:.

IELTS: Between 6.0 and 6.5.

Duolingo: Ninety five one hundred ten.

Some universities have a conditionally open admissions, which is a benefit for students that don’t quite meet the score requirement.

4. Get an Offer Letter.

Once the university has reviewed your application and the supporting documents, if accepted successful applicants will receive an offer admission letter. This letter which confirms your place is required before we may request the I-20.

At present many students from Nepal approach a Best Consultancy in the US to get a comparison of offers, tuition costs, and scholarship options which they then base their decision on.

Nepali Students’ Financial Docs. for I-20.

5. Prove your financial ability.

US universities require documentation which shows that students can cover at least one academic year of tuition and living expenses.

Accepted financial documents include: Here are the accepted financial reports which include:.

Bank balance certificate

Bank statements (last 6 months)

Education loan approval letter

Sponsor affidavit (parents or guardians)

Income source documents

💰 Estimated amount: USD 25,000 45,00 which is a range of sums at different universities.

Financial records must be accurate and in agreement. In this area NIEC as a resource can guide students through which mistakes to avoid that in turn will prevent delays or rejections.

6. Submit Application for I-20.

After accepting the offer students will turn in a I-20 form which includes:.

Passport copy

Financial documents

Sponsor details

All information must match what is on your passport exactly to avoid issues later during the visa process.

Receiving Your I-20 from the USA

7. Processing time for I-20.

Once upon receipt of all required documents, US universities tend to:.

1–3 weeks to issue the I-20

Students may receive: Students will receive:.

Electronic I-20 (e-I20)

Physical I-20 via courier

The US Embassy in Kathmandu accepts electronic I-20’s.

8. Review your I-20 closely.

After receiving the I-20, check: Once you have your I-20, go over:.

Name spelling

Date of birth

Program start date

University name

SEVIS ID

Estimated cost

Even minor mistakes may cause issues at the visa interview.

What to do after getting your I-20?

Pay the SEVIS fee of $350.

Book a US visa interview

Prepare visa documents

Go to the US Embassy in Kathmandu for the interview.

Many of the Nepali students that do prepare do so through mock interviews and counseling which is often made available by institutions like NIEC which students in turn refer to as the Best Consultancy in Nepal for the USA.

Common Mistakes Nepali Students Should Avoid

Presenting vague or inconsistent financial reports which is to be not done.

❌ Applying to non-SEVP-approved universities

❌ Providing incorrect personal details

❌ Missing application deadlines

❌ Not reviewing the I-20 properly

Tips to Get I-20 Faster

✔ Apply early (8–12 months ahead)

Go for schools that match your academic background.

✔ Prepare financial documents in advance

✔ Respond quickly to university emails

✔ Seek guidance when unsure

Final Thoughts

Getting into the I-20 process at US schools is a structured task which we put through a systematic approach, but with right planning and accurate documentation Nepali students may see great results. As they apply either independently or with the help of experienced advisors like NIEC which is also very much a known name for being the Best in Nepal for the USA route the main thing is to stay organized and informed.

With the right plan out of here you begin your study in the U.S. with confidence.