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Can I hold I-20s from more than one SEVP-certified school at the same time?

24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Tamanna Jaisingh · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, you are allowed to receive I-20s from more than one SEVP-certified school and hold them at the same time, since this is not prohibited. What you must do is choose a single school's I-20 for your visa application and entry into the country, apart from a concurrent enrollment exception.

Tamanna Jaisingh
Tamanna Jaisingh Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
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Yes, you can receive and hold I-20s from more than one SEVP-certified school at the same time. There is nothing wrong with keeping multiple offers open while you decide.

What You Can And Cannot Do With Multiple I-20s

SituationIs It Allowed?
Holding I-20s from several SEVP-certified schoolsYes, not prohibited
Using more than one I-20 for your visa applicationNo, pick one school's I-20
Using more than one I-20 for initial entryNo, except approved concurrent enrollment at two schools

Making Your Final Choice

Once you decide which offer to accept, you need to select that school's I-20 specifically for your DS-160 application and your entry into the country. Keeping other I-20s on file does not cause a problem as long as you are clear about which one you are actually using.

My Advice

Finalize your decision well before you start your visa paperwork, so there is no confusion about which I-20 number goes on your DS-160 form. If you genuinely need concurrent enrollment at two schools, confirm that specific approval with both institutions beforehand.

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