I-20 Program Extension Request
Overview
The length of your I-20 reflects the amount of time that a student normally takes to complete the academic program. F-1 regulations require student to complete their studies in that time frame and only allows extension in certain exceptional situations. Additionally, the extension of the I-20 must be complete before the end date on the I-20. If the student does not extend the I-20 in advance of the end date, an application of reinstatement would have to be submitted to the U.S. Customs and Immigration Services in order to be reinstated to legal status.
This I-20 Extension Request form is one of the two forms needed for students to obtain a program extension. A form from both the student and the academic advisor is required so that the International Education Center (IEC) can evaluate the justification for the extension request to ensure that it complies with F-1 regulations. These immigration regulations allow the IEC staff member to approve an extension in the following situations: 1) the delay in completion is caused by "... compelling academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research problems, or 2) documented illnesses. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extensions.
To Do Checklist:
- Complete and submit the Student I-20 Extension form.
- Request that your Academic Advisor complete the Academic Advisor I-20 Extension Recommendation.
- Obtain the new I-20 with new end date from the IEC.