Extension of Duration of Status

An F-1 student who is unable to meet the program completion date on the Form I-20 may be granted an extension by the DSO if the DSO certifies that the student has continually maintained status and that the delays are caused by compelling academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research problems, or documented illnesses.  

Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extensions. A DSO may not grant an extension if the student did not apply for an extension until after the program end date noted on the Form I-20. An F-1 student who is unable to complete the educational program within the time listed on Form I-20 and who is ineligible for program extension is considered out of status. If eligible, the student may apply for reinstatement.  

F-1 student should see the DSO to receive further instructions for the program extension.

For Graduate Students:
*Extension Instructions (grads)
*Extension Instructions (faculty adviser)
*Sample Letter (faculty adviser)