Starting Process/Obtaining I-20/DS-2019
How long does it take to get my I-20 or DS-2019 once I submit the request?
If your request is complete and correct, your I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued within 15-calendar days.
When will the I-20/DS-2019 Request become available?
Your admissions department will notify you when the FRS is available for your program. Typically in mid-April/early-May.
My I-20/DS-2019 Request has been submitted and is in process; when will I get my I-20/DS-2019?
Once requested, your I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued within 15-calendar days and then the original will be sent to you. Once issued, you will receive an email notification showing your SEVIS ID#, the University of Chicago's SEVIS School codes, and how to pay the SEVIS Fee and schedule your visa appointment. Scanned copies of your immigration documents cannot be sent by the University of Chicago. You will need to originals for the visa appointment and for entry into the U.S.
I am currently studying in F-1/J-1 status in the U.S. and want to transfer my SEVIS status to UChicago. How does that work?
If your current I-20 or OPT end date will be within 5 months of the UChicago quarter start date, you may be eligible to transfer your SEVIS record to UChicago. You can read the complete process and instructions for transferring your status on our website.
Obtaining your Student Visa
How can I get a receipt to show I paid the SEVIS fee?
You can print a receipt from the FMJFee website and take a screen grab.
Can you send me my SEVIS ID number so I can make an appointment for my visa?
Yes--once your I-20/DS-2019 is issued, you will receive an email with your SEVIS ID# and other information required for paying the SEVIS Fee and scheduling your appointment.
Travel to the U.S. Before your program
I have to be in the U.S. more than 30-days before my I-20/DS-2019 start date for a sports team, optional school program, or need additional time to prepare for school. What should I do?
The program start-date listed on your UChicago I-20 or DS-2019 will be early enough to accommodate early arrivals for orientations, AEPP, bootcamps, etc. If you are coming for summer to start research or in a lab, be sure to communicate with your admitting academic program about such requests.
When do I have to check-in with OIA?
You can check-in online with OIA after you enter the U.S. You will want to locate your I-94 arrival record from the U.S. Customs & Border Protection to complete check-in, and only after you have arrived in the U.S. More check in information can be found on our website.