I do not have a surname name, or I do not have a given name-How does this affect my document??

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires us to use the given name for the surname for individuals who do not have a surname. Therefore, on the I-20/DS-2019, when there is no surname, we will use the given name in the place of the surname. Other offices in the U.S. may use last name unknown (LNU) or first name unknown (FNU), but inconsistencies with the I-20/DS-2019 and are not permitted by the DHS. It is not possible to live in the U.S. without a surname name. Even Beyonce and Lizzo have a surname. You should realize that FNU or LNU will become your name because most people do not understand these abbreviations.

In all instances, surname, given name and middle name should all match what is on the passport. We cannot enter special characters such as hyphens and accents on the I-20/DS-2019 as these characters are not recognized.

ISSA will issue the I-20/DS-2019 with the name the admissions office has on file or we will recommend a change based on your passport. It is important for many reasons that you are consistent in the name you use. This will affect your living in the U.S. such as driver's license applications, social security number applications, etc.