F-1 I-20 Form Extension

If you will be remaining in your educational program beyond the originally estimated completion date (see question #5 on your I-20 form) you must request an extension of your I-20 form before your I-20 form expires.  An extension may be done at any time before the I-20 form expires- however, we recommend that you turn in your request to the International Center for Students and Scholars at least one month before your I-20 form expires.  Failure to extend your I-20 form before it expires is a violation of your F-1 student status and will require reinstatement to F-1 status.

You are eligible to extend your I-20 form if you:

• Have continually maintained F-1 status and
• Are making normal progress toward degree completion and
• The delay in completion is caused by
  • Compelling academic reasons beyond your control or
  • Compelling medical reasons beyond your control

Examples of compelling academic reasons are:  change in major or research topic, or unexpected research problems.  Delays caused by academic probation, suspension, dismissal, poor academic progress or unauthorized breaks in full time study are not acceptable reasons for program extension.

What happens if I do not qualify to extend my I-20 form?
Students who cannot complete the program by the expiration of the I-20 and who do not meet the eligibility criteria for program extension are considered violation of F-1 status and must apply for F-1 student reinstatement or lawfully re-enter the U.S. with a new I-20 form.