I-20 vs. DS-2019: What's the Difference and Why It Matters

When you're accepted to a U.S. program, you'll receive a key document: either a Form I-20 or a Form DS-2019. This isn't just paperwork; it's the foundation of your legal status in the United States. Understanding which one you have and what it means is crucial.

Form I-20: For "Students" (F-1 & M-1 Visas)

• Primary Purpose: To attend a full course of study at an academic or vocational institution.
• Issued by: A U.S. college, university, or vocational school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
• Key Feature: This is the primary document that allows you to apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa and maintain your student status while in the U.S.

Form DS-2019: For "Exchange Visitors" (J-1 Visa)

• Primary Purpose: To participate in a specific work-and-study-based exchange program that promotes cultural exchange. This includes roles like research scholars, professors, interns, au pairs, and specialists.
• Issued by: A U.S. Department of State-designated program sponsor (which could be a university, a government agency, or a private organization).
• Key Feature: Often comes with a "two-year home-country physical presence requirement," which means you must return to your home country for two years after your program before you can apply for certain other U.S. visas.

Why It Matters For Your SEVIS Payment

The simplest way to think about it is: The I-20 is for "students" and the DS-2019 is for "exchange visitors." This distinction is critical because they have different SEVIS fee amounts associated with them.

When you use SevisMate to pay your fee, it's vital to select the correct form type. This ensures we process the payment for the correct government fee amount and that all subsequent steps are handled correctly. Always double-check your form before starting the payment process!