Extension of Program of Study

If you are in F-1 status, item #5 of your I-20 indicates the program completion date of your SEVIS record.

If you are in J-1 status, item # 3 of your DS-2019 indicates the program completion date of your SEVIS record.

If you will not complete your academic program by that program end date, you must apply for an Extension of Program of Study before the end date indicated on your I-20 or DS-2019 document. You may lose your lawful F-1 or J-1 status and all associated benefits if you: (1) fail to apply for an extension before your I-20 or DS-2019 expires even if you have a valid reason for extension; OR (2) you apply for an extension but do not meet the requirements for an extension.

ELIGIBILITY FOR AN EXTENSION

Immigration regulations limit the circumstances for which international students may be granted a program extension. Federal Immigration regulations provide that you may be eligible for an extension if: (1) you have continually maintained full-time F-1/J-1 status AND (2) if you have compelling academic or medical reasons which resulted in a delay in your program completion. 8 CFR sec. 214.2(f)(7)(iii).

Examples of acceptable/compelling reasons for program extension are:

  • Changes in major/research topic;
  • Unexpected research difficulties;
  • Lost credits upon transfer into Syracuse University; or
  • Documented illness
    • .

The following are examples of unacceptable reasons for program extension:

  • Repeat of course(s) due to unsatisfactory grade;
  • Additional time to complete “incomplete” course(s);
  • Failure to work closely or consult with academic advisor;
  • Delay of coursework to participate in work experience (CPT) not required for your degree;
  • Participation in CPT when all coursework is complete; or
  • Delay caused by academic probation or suspension.

PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING AN EXTENSION

  1. Complete the appropriate (F-1 or J-1) Extension Application Form and Financial Worksheet linked below.
  2. Obtain your Academic Advisor’s recommendation for the program extension on the appropriate Extension Form.
  3. Obtain photocopies of the following for yourself and your dependents:
    • Passport bio and expiration date page, visa, and I-94
    • F-1: All I-20s (page 1 only. Page 1 and 3 if you have participated in CPT or OPT)
    • J-1: All DS-2019s. If you have been authorized for Academic Training, also submit a copy of your authorization letter.
    • Financial documents (at least one of the following):
      • Personal/family bank statement or available balance page of your online account information (no more than 3 months old);
      • Assistantship letter, scholarship letter, or fellowship letter; or
      • Notarized letter from a sponsor (relative or third party) and sponsor’s financial bank statement
    • Health insurance coverage including Medical Evacuation and Repatriation (The coverage must be valid until the new end date of your program of study.)
    • SUNY ESF students must also submit an Enrollment Certification (from the Office of the Registrar's Office) to verify full-time enrollment throughout your program.
  4. Once you complete the Application and Worksheet, obtain your advisor’s recommendation, and you have the necessary copies, make an appointment at the Slutzker Center for document review. This MUST be completed no later than two weeks before your program end date of your current I-20/DS-2019.
  5. You will be notified via email whether your extension request was approved or denied.If your request was approved, you may collect your new I-20 or DS-2019 from the Slutzker Center.

SU F-1 students, please click here.

SUNY-ESF F-1 students, please click here.

SU J-1 students, please click here.

SUNY-ESF J-1 students, please click here.