Program Extension
F-1 students may need to extend their program of study due to academic or medical reasons.
If a student is unable to complete their degree by the program end date listed on their Form I-20, they may be eligible to request a program extension. A Designated School Official (DSO) may authorize an extension if the student has continuously maintained F-1 status and the delay in completion is due to compelling academic or medical circumstances.
Eligibility to Extend F-1 Status
An F-1 student may be eligible to apply for an extension of their program if all of the following conditions are met:
- A program extension request is submitted to the Designated School Official (DSO) before the program end date listed on the current Form I-20
- Normal academic progress is maintained
- Valid F-1 status is maintained continuously
- The delay in program completion is due to compelling academic or medical reasons
- The delay is not due to academic probation, suspension, or disciplinary action
- The academic advisor recommends the program extension request
Steps to Request a Program Extension
The student must submit a request for a program extension via the International Services Portal at least 30-days prior to the program end date listed on their Form I-20.
You must have maintained valid F-1 status, be making normal academic progress, and have experienced a delay caused by an eligible academic or medical circumstance, such as:
- a change of major or research topic
- unexpected research problems
- documented medical conditions
- other academic reasons
Submit your request through the International Services Portal at least 30-days prior to the program end date listed on your current Form I-20.
The documentation needed to submit a program extension request includes:
- your new anticipated program completion date
- reason for the extension
- academic advisor’s name and approval
Once approved, review your updated Form I-20 and confirm that all information is accurate.