Program Extension

F-1 governing rules: F-1 Extension of Stay: 8 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 214.2(f)(7)

An F-1 student who is unable to meet the program completion date on Form I-20 may be granted an extension by the School if the School Official certifies that the student has continually maintained status and that the delays are caused by compelling academic or medical reasons

Eligibility

• Student is in full-time F-1 status
• The delay in completion is caused by “compelling academic or medical reasons” such as changes of major or research topics or documented illness
• Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extension
• Student must apply for a program extension and receive a new I-20, if approved, before the program end date typed on the current I-20 form
• Cannot exceed one additional year

Procedure:
To apply for a program extension, the student must:

• Complete the PROGRAM EXTENSION REQUEST FORM (Click on NEXT)
• Provide updated educational plan indicating additional time required to complete the program (cannot exceed 1 year).
• Provide proof of additional financial support
• Current (less than 6 months old) bank statement ($26,300 USD or more) from financial sponsor
• Updated Affidavit of Financial Support signed by financial sponsor.
• Program Extension can be approved only ONE-TIME per program level.