A Program Extension is required if a student is unable to complete all degree requirements by the Program End Date noted in Item 5 of the Form I-20. A Program Extension application must be submitted to and approved by the PDSO 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.
Note: Students cannot apply for full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) after a Program Extension has been processed, nor will a Program Extension be approved for the purpose of participating in an internship for CPT.
Eligibility
- Student must be in 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
- Documented illness
- Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for a Program Extension
- A student who has been authorized 12 months or more of full-time CPT and/or Pre-Completion OPT is not eligible for a Program Extension.
Students unsure of their eligibility for a Program Extension should consult with the PDSO. Students who are not eligible for a Program Extension should make every effort to complete their program of study before their I-20 expires. Failure to complete the program will result in the loss of legal status and the need to file for Reinstatement with the Dept of Homeland Security, if eligible, or to make a new entry into the U.S. with an “initial attendance” I-20. This will result in the student losing eligibility for off-campus employment opportunities. Students should consult with an ISSS Adviser regarding their options.
Application
In addition to submitting the Program Extension Application Form, students must also submit the following:
Academic Reason for Program Extension
Obtain a letter from your academic adviser that contains the following information:
- A detailed reason for the delay in completion
- Where the student is currently at in their program
- When student will be expected to complete all degree requirements.
Medical Reason for Program Extension
Obtain letter from Physician verifying:
- llness prohibited the student from completing their program by the original I-20 end date
- Dates of illness
- Reduced Course Load Form (if needed)
- International Student Certification of Finances form
Approval Process
- Submit original copies of all required documents to the PDSO.
- The PDSO will review the application. If the PDSO does not feel the academic advisor’s letter meets with DHS regulations, the student will be asked to obtain another letter.
- Approval of the Program Extension will result in the issuance of a new I-20 that reflects a new completion date.
- Denial of the Program Extension will result in the need for student to apply to the DHS for Reinstatement of Legal Status or make a re-entry into the U.S. with an “initial attendance” I-20.