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F-1 PROGRAM EXTENSION PROCEDURES
When do I need to apply for an extension?
At least 30 days before your current I-20 expires, if you do not expect to have completed your degree program by that date. ISS will process extension as early as one semester before the I-20 document will expire.
When you were admitted to your current degree program at the UW-Madison an "expected completion" date was typed on your I-20. See item #5: "The student is expected to...... complete studies not later than (date)."
What is D/S?
This indicates that as long as you remain in good status as an F-1 student you may remain in the USA (D/S = duration of status). Once you are no longer a full-time student (e.g.: withdraw from school or complete your program early) you are no longer in status. You should not assume that you can stay until the completion date if you are no longer a full-time student.
F-1 60-day "Grace Period"
You have 60 days after you complete your program to prepare for departure from the U.S., or move to another educational level, transfer schools, or change to another nonimmigrant status.
How do I apply for an extension?
Complete an ISS application for new/revised I-20, showing your new date of completion and attach:
- A copy of your current I-20 form
- Documentation of financial support to cover at least one year of your educational program
- An academic advisor's letter indicating why you need additional time and new projected date
What will ISS do?
ISS will prepare a new I-20 form showing the new completion date. You retain the student copy of the new I-20.
F-1 EXTENSION (Change of Level) From MASTER'S TO PH.D.
An F-1 graduate student who was issued an I-20 for a Master's program must obtain an extension (referred to as a "change of level") to continue from the Master's to the Ph.D. program. Whether you are completing the Master's degree or continuing graduate work at the Ph.D. level without completing the Master's Degree, you must apply for an extension within 10 days of beginning your new program.
You should bring the following items to International Student Services for your change of level extension application:
Extension Approval Form
CAUTION: You may lose your F-1 status, and lose student benefits such as on-campus employment and practical training, if you fail to extend your stay, or apply for a change of level, on time. If this happens, you must apply to USCIS for reinstatement. See an ISS advisor for information on reinstatement.
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