SEVP Clarifies English Proficiency Requirements for F-1 and M-1 Students with New Form I-20 Guidance
Alexandria, VA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has issued new policy guidance, titled “SEVP Policy Guidance S13.2: The Form I-20 and the English Proficiency Field,” effective July 15, 2025. This updated guidance aims to provide clarity and ensure accurate reporting of English proficiency for prospective F-1 and M-1 nonimmigrant students on the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”
The Form I-20 serves as a crucial document for international students seeking to study in the United States, acting as proof of their eligibility for the F-1 or M-1 visa status. A key component of this form is the section dedicated to verifying the student’s English proficiency. This is a vital step in the SEVP’s mission to maintain the integrity of the program and ensure that admitted students are adequately prepared for academic study in the U.S.
The newly released S13.2 guidance offers detailed information for Designated School Officials (DSOs) at Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified schools on how to correctly complete the English proficiency field on the Form I-20. It reiterates the importance of accurately reflecting a student’s ability to understand English, as this directly impacts their ability to succeed in their chosen academic program.
The guidance likely elaborates on acceptable methods for assessing and documenting English proficiency. Historically, SEVP has accepted various forms of evidence, including standardized English language proficiency tests such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System), as well as other academically recognized assessments. It is expected that the new guidance will continue to affirm these recognized assessment methods and may offer further clarification on specific score requirements or alternative pathways for demonstrating proficiency, such as conditional admission or demonstrating proficiency through academic coursework in English.
Furthermore, the document emphasizes the responsibility of the DSO to ensure that the information provided on the Form I-20 is accurate and complete. This includes verifying the documentation submitted by the student to support their English language abilities. The guidance underscores the importance of maintaining thorough records for all students admitted to the program.
This policy update reflects SEVP’s ongoing commitment to refining its processes and providing clear direction to SEVP-certified schools. By ensuring accurate and consistent reporting of English proficiency, SEVP aims to streamline the student admission process, enhance program oversight, and ultimately support the successful academic journey of international students in the United States.
Designated School Officials are strongly encouraged to review the full “SEVP Policy Guidance S13.2: The Form I-20 and the English Proficiency Field” document, available on the ICE.gov website, to familiarize themselves with the updated procedures and ensure compliance. This proactive step will help facilitate a smooth and efficient process for both institutions and prospective international students.
SEVP Policy Guidance S13.2: The Form I-20 and the English Proficiency Field
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