International Student Services

Program Extension for F-1 Students

General Information

• Program Extension is required if student is unable to complete all degree requirements by the date noted in Item 5 of the SEVIS I-20.

Program Extension application must be submitted to and approved by the International Student Adviser before the I-20 expiration date.

• Failure to process a Program Extension before the expiration of the I-20 results in the loss of legal status and the ability to work on the campus.

Eligibility

• Student must be in a legal F-1 status.
• I-20 must reflect student’s current program of study
• Student must possess valid passport
• Delays in completion must be caused by compelling academic or medical reasons, such as:
  • Changes of major or research topics
  • Unexpected research problems
  • Documented illness
• Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for a Program Extension.
  

Students unsure of their eligibility for a Program Extension should consult with the International Student Adviser. Students who are not eligible for a Program Extension should make every effort to complete their program of study before their I-20 expires.


Application

• Academic Reason for Program Extension: obtain a letter from academic adviser that contains the following information:
  • A detailed reason for the delay in completion.
  • Where the student is currently at in his/her program
  • When student will be expected to complete all degree requirements.
• Medical Reason for Program Extension:
  • Obtain letter from Physician verifying:
    • Illness prohibited the student from completing their program by the original I-20 end date.
    • Dates of illness.
  • Obtain letter from Academic Adviser that states when student is expected to complete all degree requirements.
• Reduced Course Load Form (if needed)
  

Approval Process

• Submit the documentation noted under “Application” to the International Student Adviser.
• Approval of the Program Extension will result in the issuance of a new I-20 that reflects a new completion date. Student will receive an email when the new I-20 is ready for pick up.

Students on University Payroll

A new Form I-9 must be completed by University Payroll. Bring your passport, I-94 and new I-20 to the Department in which you are employed. Salary will be withheld until the new I-9 is processed.