I-20 Extension/Shorten
What is an I-20 Extension?
Students who will not complete their degree requirements before the end date on their current I-20 may be eligible to extend their I-20 if they still have required coursework to complete. An extension request must be submitted at least 1 month prior to the program end date on the I-20. After the program end date has passed, OISS will no longer be able to process an extension request.
Eligibility
Only students who have required coursework are eligible to extend their I-20. Extensions are only granted for compelling academic reasons, such as changes in major, unexpected research problems, documented illness, etc. Per SEVP, delays in studies caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for extending an I-20. Additional courses for personal enrichment, engaging in CPT, or similar issues are not valid reasons for an I-20 extension.
Documents Required to Apply for an I-20 Extension
- Fill out and submit the I-20 Extension Form
- Copy of your Most Recent I-94
- Copy of your U.acheive Degree Audit for undergraduate students only
- Copy of your updated Program of Study for graduate students only
- Academic Advisor Extension Form
Important Information about Extending your I-20
Although students will not be required to show updated financial documents in the form of bank statements, they will need to confirm that they have access to the additional funds required to cover the remaining costs of their extension.
What is an I-20 Shorten?
Students who plan to finish their program early, before the end date on their current I-20 can submit an I-20 Shorten Form to shorten the end date on their I-20. Typically, this request is only used for students who want to waive their insurance payments from future semesters.
Important Note: If you plan to finish early, and are going to apply for Post-Completion OPT, OISS will automatically shorten the end date on your I-20 when you request the OPT I-20. You do not need to submit a shorten request.
Documents Required to Shorten an I-20
- Fill out and submit the I-20 Shorten Form
- Copy of your Most Recent I-94
- Academic Advisor Letter on school letterhead stating expected program completion. Must include:
- Official university letterhead
- Student name and EID number
- Confirmation from the advisor that the student is enrolled in all remaining courses in their degree program
- The expected date of program completion