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F-1 International Students are required to complete their program by their I-20 "program end date" found on the first page of their current I-20 form (see sample screen shot below). If you will not be able to complete your current program by the expected completion date, you must apply for a Program Extension as soon as possible through the International Education Center.
ELIGIBILITY & TIMING:
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Apply for the extension as soon as you are aware of the need to extend and no later than 1 month prior to your current I-20 program end date* (see screen shot above)
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You are responsible for submitting your request in a timely manner and must plan accordingly to receive the required faculty signature(s). We cannot be responsible for immigration issues that occur because of missed deadlines
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*Please note: If your I-20 program end date falls during the winter or summer break, you should submit the form at least 1 month prior to the start of the break during which your program is scheduled to end. This is because many faculty are not available over winter and summer breaks
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If you DO NOT submit your program extension request 1 month prior to the current listed program end date on your current I-20, you risk the ability to extend your program and/or apply for OPT or CPT and remain in the US studying.
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You must have a valid academic reason for the delay (such as change of major, change in research topic or illness for example)
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Delays in completing your studies must not be caused by academic or judicial probation or suspension
PROCESS FOR APPLYING:
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Complete this online request form: REQUEST F-1 PROGRAM EXTENSION NOW
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The form will then go to your Faculty or Academic Adviser and the Department Chair (undergrads) or the Dean (grad students) for approval
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Once formal approval is received, your International Student Adviser will extend your Program End Date in your SEVIS immigration record and print a new I-20 for you
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You will receive an email when the new I-20 is ready