Q: international student face i-20 problem
I am an international student from China, currently pursuing my second graduate degree in MDA. After completing my first MBA program, the school did not update my I-20, and I only recently discovered this issue, which has been ongoing for a year. I am about to graduate in 1-2 weeks and will need to apply for OPT and an EAD card afterward. How can I resolve the issue of not having an I-20 at the moment?
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A:
As an international student, it's crucial to maintain a valid I-20 throughout your studies in the United States. Here are some steps you can take to resolve the issue of not having an updated I-20:
1. Contact your school's international student office or Designated School Official (DSO) immediately. Explain your situation and ask for guidance on updating your I-20.
2. Provide your DSO with all the necessary documents, such as your current enrollment verification, proof of financial support, and any other required information to issue an updated I-20.
3. If your school is willing to update your I-20, they may need to request a data fix from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to correct the missing information in your SEVIS record.
4. Once your I-20 is updated, make sure to sign the new document.
5. If you are applying for OPT, you will need to submit your updated I-20 with your OPT application. Consult with your DSO about the proper procedure and timeline for applying for OPT, considering your unique situation.
6. If your school is unable to update your I-20 or if you face any challenges, consider seeking legal advice from an immigration attorney specializing in student visas. They can provide guidance on how to proceed and help protect your legal status in the United States.
Remember, it's essential to act quickly and communicate openly with your school's international student office to resolve this issue as soon as possible, especially given your upcoming graduation and OPT application.
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