HOW TO APPLY FOR A PROGRAM EXTENSION

If you will not graduate by the "complete studies not later than" date in section #5 of your I-20, you MUST apply for a program extension prior to that date or you will violate your visa status. You may apply for the program extension at any time prior to the completion date and the I-20 must be made not later than that date or you will fall out of status. Allow 2 weeks for the processing of your request.

To apply for your program extension you should submit a completed I-20 Request Form to the I-Center along with the following back-up documentation attached:

1. a photocopy of your current I-20

2. proof of sufficient funding. If you are funded by your department, the department administrator should complete the relevant funding section of the I-20 Request Form. If some or all of your funding is from personal, family, or other sources, fill out the amount in the relevant section of the form and attach bank statements, scholarshipletters, etc as evidence of funding.

3. a letter, on department letterhead, from your academic advisor that explains the REASON for the DELAY in the completion of your degree and that states what your new expected date (quarter/year) of completion will be. This date should match the date indicated by your advisor or department administrator on the I-20 Request Form, and it cannot be beyond the expiration date of your candidacy.

Please note that it is not enough for your advisor to state in the letter that you need an extension because you have not finished your thesis or other degree requirements. The ACADEMIC REASON for the actual DELAY in your degree completion must be clearly stated. NOTE: If you are currently studying for your MS degree, you may not extend your I-20 so that you may "take the quals" for the Ph.D. degree.

Acceptable reasons can include the following:

• unexpected difficulties in research
• lack of access to necessary equipment to conduct research
• change in thesis topic, etc.

A documented medical reason can also be used for a program extension.

The reason stated in the letter must be the reason that your degree completion has been delayed.

You will be notified by email when your new I-20 is ready for you to pick up.