I-20 Extension
An F-1 international student who is unable to complete program requirements before the Program End Date on their Form I-20 may be granted an extension by the DSO if the student continually maintained F-1 status and if the delays are caused by compelling academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or medical reasons. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extensions.
Eligibility
To qualify for a I-20 extension, you must:
- Have completed a full course load every academic term, unless you were approved for a Reduced Course Load (RCL), and otherwise be maintaining your F-1 status.
- Have compelling and unavoidable academic or medical reasons for needing more time to complete your program.
- Apply for an I-20 extension prior to the completion date on your I-20.
- Be meeting all financial obligations at the college and have proof of financial resources for the time required to complete your studies.
Procedure
If you wish to apply for a program extension, you must follow the steps below:
- Submit the SEVIS Request Form for “I-20 Extension”? and upload the Statement of Financial Responsibility and bank statement.
- Meet with your Academic Advisor to discuss your remaining academic plan.
- The SEVIS Coordinator will review your request. If your request is approved, the SEVIS Coordinator will issue a new I-20 to you with a new Program End Date.
Deadline
The SEVIS Request Form must be submitted by the deadline provided by the SEVIS Team in an email.
In cases where a student is unable to complete their program due to failing a course in the final term, a student might be able to request an extension, if the request is submitted within 10 days of the Program End Date.
Additional Information
A student is not eligible for a program extension if any of the following applies:
- A student has not been studying on a full-time basis and did not have approval for part-time enrollment.
- A student’s need for more time is due to academic probation or academic suspension.
- A student has engaged in unauthorized employment or otherwise did not maintain their F-1 status.
- A student has submitted a late request for an extension.
This page is maintained by the OISS SEVIS Team.