Program Extension
The initial Form I-20/DS-2019 provided to you when you began your program of study at Brandeis University was prepared based on a standard anticipated date of completion. Some students may need additional time to complete their academic program.
Federal regulations require that F-1 and J-1 students have a valid Form I-20/DS-2019 at all times. This means that students who are unable to graduate by the program completion date on their Form I-20/DS-2019 will need to apply for an extension of stay. The extension must be based on compelling academic or medical reasons such as a change of major or research topic, unexpected research problems, or a documented illness.
Failure to request a program extension BEFORE the program end date of your current Form I-20/DS-2019 is a violation of status and may result in the loss of your immigration status or future immigration benefits.
For more information on eligibility for an extension of program, how to apply, and the required financial documentation see below.
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F-1 students are eligible to apply for a program extension if they:
- Are enrolled full time and making normal progress toward degree completion
- Need an extension due to a compelling academic or documented medical reason
- Request the extension BEFORE the original program end date
F-1 regulations do not allow program extension for delays caused by academic probation or suspension.
F-1 students are NOT eligible to apply for a program extension if they:
- Want to enroll in extra courses or repeat the same course for personal interest or to improve their GPA
- Want to engage in research on or off-campus
- They want to finish pending coursework for an incomplete grade
- Want to apply for non-required Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Want to enroll in course work delayed by participation in non-required CPT
There is no federal regulatory limit on the time that a J-1 student is permitted to remain in the U.S.
J-1 students are eligible to apply for a program extension if they:
- Are enrolled full-time
- Are making progress toward their academic objective
- Have a valid unexpired Form DS-2019
- Have the required insurance coverage
- Have not engaged in unauthorized employment
- Meet with your Academic/Faculty Advisor to discuss the need for an extension and decide on a new program completion date
- Provide updated proof of funding showing that you have sufficient funds to remain in the U.S. during the additional time period that you are requesting. You will need to provide financial documentation to cover tuition, fees and living expenses.
- Tuition and fees will vary depending on your program of study and if you are a graduate or undergraduate student.
- Submit a Program Extension Request in the ISSO Portal
- Upload financial documents to prove that you have sufficient funds for the extension including tuition and living expenses.
- Provide your Academic/Program Advisor’s name and email address to request electronic approval.
- Your program extension will be processed within 5-7 business days after you have successfully submitted the request and we have received your Academic/Faculty Advisor approval.
You must submit your Program Extension Request in the ISSO Portal at least 7 business days before the current program end date indicated on your Form I-20/Form DS-2019. Failure to extend your program in a timely manner may result in losing your immigration status.
If you have questions about the extension process, contact your ISSO advisor.