The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires F-1 international students to complete a program of study by the Form I-20 program end date.
A student who is currently maintaining status and making normal progress towards degree completion, but who is unable to graduate must apply for an I-20 extension before the I-20 end date. An F-1 student may not be granted more than two extensions for the same academic program.
A student who fails to meet the I-20 extension deadline (Spring – May 1, Fall – December 1) is not eligible for an I-20 program extension. An F-1 student who is unable to graduate by the I-20 end date and who is ineligible for an I-20 extension is considered out of status.
F-1 students must extend their I-20 end date before traveling, or risk challenges with re-entry at a U.S. port of entry.
Eligibility Requirements
- Continually maintained active F-1 status.
- Making normal progress toward completion of degree.
- Remaining academic requirements and required courses to graduate.
- Delays caused by documented academic or medical reasons.
- No more than two program extensions for the same academic program may be granted.
Invalid Reasons for a Program Extension
- Delays caused by academic or disciplinary probation or suspension.
- Delays caused by undocumented academic or medical circumstances.
- To enroll in non-required courses to delay graduation or for transfer admission needs.
- To repeat courses for personal interest or GPA improvement.
- To engage in non-required Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
- To finish pending coursework for an incomplete grade.
I-20 Program Extension Request Deadlines
Fall I-20 expiration: December1
Spring I-20 expiration: May 1
Request an Extension
Submit the I-20 Program Extension Request Form to the International Student Office at [email protected] by the posted deadline.
Other Options for Students whose I-20s are Expiring
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), if graduating in the current semester. Visit the International Student Office to discuss eligibility and application procedures.
- SEVIS Transfer Out – transfer to a SEVP-certified institution. Submit the required SEVIS Transfer Out Form to transfer your SEVIS record to a new institution.
- Apply for a Change of Education Level I-20 to re-enroll at ACC (complete the New Degree Request After Graduation)
- Depart the U.S. F-1 students must depart the U.S. within 60 days of the I-20 program end date. F-1 students are required to send proof of departure plans to the International Student Office.