To obtain an I-20 you first must apply to and meet all of the requirements set forth by the college/university. If you want to know what these are then contact or visit the website of your chosen institution.

You will receive your I-20 once the university as processed and accepted your request for admission. They will send it to the address which you stated on the application form.

The turn around time from sending off your application of admission to receiving an I-20 varies. The minimum you can expect to wait is about 45 days.

Once you have been accepted and received your I-20 you may then proceed to apply for a student visa.

You cannont apply for a student visa without an I-20. So you first must be granted admission.