Program Extension

GENERAL INFORMATION

• A program extension is required if a student is unable to complete all degree requirements by the date noted in Item five of the SEVIS I-20.

• A program extension request must be made to the ISP 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.

• Students are not eligible for full-time Curricular Practical Training after a program extension has been processed.

• A student who has entered a new degree program but failed to obtain a new I-20 reflecting the new program should have a new I-20 processed at the International Student Program; this is generally not considered a program extension.

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

  • 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 Curricular Practical Training and/or Optional Practical Training is not eligible for a program extension.