International Student Services

[All information is subject to change without notice.]

F-1 students are required to complete their academic programs within an estimated period of time, as listed on their I-20s.  If an F-1 student is not able to complete his or her program within this period of time, he/she may apply for an extension of stay. 

Eligibility

• You must be currently maintaining status and making normal progress toward completing your educational objective.
• You must meet one of the valid Immigration Service reasons for extension:
• Compelling academic reason (such as a change of major, research topics or research complications)
• Documented medical reason (such as hospitalization or prolonged illness).
• You must apply prior to the I-20 expiration date.

NOTE: Academic probation, suspension, or Curricular Practical Training are not valid reasons for a program extension.

I-20 Extension Application Process

1. Submit the following documents to the ISS Office:
   1. Program Extension Form listing the reason why you were unable to complete the program, courses remaining and the length of extension requested, signed by your department head.
   2. An updated UT Dallas financial affidavit.
   3. Proof of funding for the period of extension. The amount required is listed on the extension form.
2. Processing time is 5 business days. You will be sent an email when the extended I-20 is ready for pickup.