EXTEND YOUR END DATE
Sometimes students need more time to complete their degree than expected. If that’s the case, they would also need to extend the program end date on their I-20 or DS-2019 form.
Before requesting an extension, students should make sure that their request is because of a compelling academic or medical reason. Federal guidelines require the extensions are only made for these compelling academic or medical reasons. Examples include changes to a major or academic program and documented illnesses.
Extensions cannot be made for the sake of employment or administrative purposes.
Timing of the Extension Request
You must make the request for the extension well in advance of your program end date. Extensions cannot be made after your program ends.
Make the request at least 30 days prior to your program end date to accommodate for processing.
Approvals Needed for the Extension
To request an extension to the program, students should first start with their faculty advisor. Then a request should be made through the Registrar’s Office to officially change the graduation date in E-services. Finally, students should submit the Program Extension Request through the International Student Portal, which requires approval from the faculty advsor.
Obtain Proof of Sufficient Funding
In addition to securing academic funding, students must also upload proof that they will be able to meet the financial costs of additional semester(s) spent studying at Depauw.
Acceptable proofs of sufficient proof of funding included a Financial Aid Letter from the Financial Aid Letter confirming scholarship, grant and loan aid for any additional semesters, as well as bank statements confirming ability to make up for any shortfall in paying full tuition, room and board.
How to Submit the Extend Program Request to ISA
- Log in through the International Student Portal
- Navigate to the Requests and Documents tab
- Click on the Extend Program Request to fill out and submit the request
Make sure to leave 3 to 4 days for processing.
FAQ
Will I Need to Update My I-9?
Yes. Please be in touch with the Hubbard Center for assistance in updating your I-9.
Do I Need a New Visa?
If you extend your program end date, it may be that the visa stamped in your passport may no longer be valid through the period to which your program has been extended. So long as you do not intend to leave the United States during that period, it is okay. If you do leave the United States and your visa is no longer valid, make sure to get an updated visa so you can reenter the U.S. and complete your program.