Program Extension Process for F-1 Students

F-1 International Students are required to complete their program by the date noted on the first page of their current I-20 form. If you will not be able to complete your current program by the expected completion date, you must apply for a Program Extension as soon as possible through the International Education Center.

Eligibility & Timing:

• You must apply for the extension as early as possible, and no later than 1 month prior to your current I-20 program end date*
  • You are responsible for submitting your request in a timely manner and must plan accordingly to receive the required faculty signature(s). We cannot be responsible for immigration issues that occur because of missed deadlines
  • *Please note: If your I-20 program end date falls during the winter or summer break, you should submit the form at least 1 month prior to the start of the break during which your program is scheduled to end. This is because many faculty are not available over winter and summer breaks
• You must be in lawful F-1 status at MassArt (following all rules and regulations)
• You must have maintained lawful F-1 status for the entirety of your program
• You must have a valid academic reason for the delay (such as change of major, change in research topic or illness for example)
• Delays in completing your studies must not be caused by academic or judicial probation or suspension

process for applying

1. Submit the F-1 Program Extension Request Form
2. The form will then go to your Faculty or Academic Advisor and the Department Chair (undergrads) or the Dean (grad students) for approval
3. Once formal approval is received, your International Student Advisor will extend your Program End Date in your SEVIS immigration record and print a new I-20 for you
4. You will receive an email when the new I-20 is ready