I-20/DS-2019 Extension Request

I-20/DS-2019 Extension Request Form

Overview

Purpose: I-20/DS-2019 Program End Date Extension form is for students who are unable to complete their studies and graduate by the program end date on their I-20/DS-2019.

Location: The request e-form can be found in iPenn under Student Services tab. 

How To Apply

Before you begin

Submit Request: Submit your request to ISSS at least 30 days before the expiration date of the I-20/DS-2019. Failure to do so may put you out of status. 

The document extension will extend your I-20/DS-2019, not your visa. 

  • Visa Status: You may remain in the US with an expired visa but a valid I-20/DS-2019 
  • Travel Reminder: If you travel out of the U.S. after your visa expires, you will need a new US Entry visa to reenter the U.S. 

F-2/J-2 dependents will automatically be issued updated forms.  

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for a document extension, you must: 

  • Maintain status: Have continually maintained F-1/J-1 status  
  • Academic/Medical Reason: Have a compelling academic or medical reason(s) for the extension that can be verified by your department or doctor (i. g. change of major or research topic, unexpected research problems, or documented illness)

Delays caused by academic probation are NOT acceptable reasons for program extension. 

Financial Requirements

If there is a change in your funding source, you must provide proof that you are able to continue meeting the living and education costs for the remainder of your study at Penn. This includes living expenses for dependent family members, if any.

Typically accepted financial documents are: 

  • A statement showing proof of renewed sponsorship or financial aid. Funding amounts must be clearly stated. 
  • An updated Penn scholarship/fellowship letter. Funding amounts must be clearly stated. 
  • Recent financial certificate (e.g., a checking/savings account statement) issued within the past 12 months.  

Funds in investment are not accepted. Review our website for the full financial document requirements.

Submission in iPenn

Complete Form: Log into iPenn to complete the I-20/DS-2019 Program End Date Extension Request form. 

Approval Process: It will first be routed to your school for departmental approval and then to ISSS for final review.

Processing Time: Upon verifying your eligibility, ISSS will issue an I-20/DS-2019 with a new completion date.  Usual processing time is 3 to 5 business days from the time we receive your application for final review. It may take longer during the high-volume season.