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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
- Submit the F-1 Program Extension Request Form
- The form will then go to your Faculty or Academic Advisor and the Department Chair (undergrads) or the Dean (grad students) for approval
- 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
- You will receive an email when the new I-20 is ready