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Coming into the US to study is a long process with many steps and forms. One of those forms required to even start the process is the I-20 form. The I-20 form is a “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.” It is required to pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee. You will also need an I-20 to enter the US or to obtain a US social security number or driver’s license. This means that it is a very important form and the first step in applying to study in the US.
International students contact the schools they wish to attend to get the I-20 form. There are two types of I-20 forms, one for M-1 status and one for F-1 status. The M-1 visa is for students looking to attend a more vocational or trade school. The F-1 visa is for students studying at a university or college approved by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The I-20 form cannot be scanned or photocopied; therefore, universities must mail the form to the student. Universities normally use express mail or expedited mail when sending these forms. This can be expensive when sending documents internationally. Not all schools are willing to pay for the shipping and require students to do so. However, this means that the school has to bill the student for the shipping cost and then must input the student’s shipping information, which increases the chance of shipping errors.
One service that helps simplify this long and tedious process is University Express Mail Services (UEMS). Students can request documents and pay for shipping online. University advisors and staff can print the label all through the UEMS system. It does not cost the school or the student to sign-up/register for UEMS.
One of the great benefits to UEMS is that students can save money with eShipGlobal’s discounted shipping rates. They can also choose which carrier they want to ship through and how fast they want the shipment to arrive.
UEMS also makes it easier for schools. It provides a simple and efficient way to have students pay for shipping, and because students themselves are inputting the shipping address it helps ensure that the package will be delivered to the correct address.
If you are interested in using UEMS it is easy and free to sign-up! Just go to the UEMS website, study.eshipglobal.com, and click the sign-up button. There are two types of sign-ups, one for university advisors, staff or administration and the other for students. Students, if your university is not using UEMS, you need to contact your school and ask them to register with UEMS.
Studying in the US is a big step that will lead to a great adventure. Therefore, it should have a great start. You are already busy getting things ready to move to the US or you are getting ready to help students moving to the US. You do not need any more hassles, steps or difficulties in the process.
By: Ashleigh Cue
