Some students complete their programs in just a few semesters and others may encounter unexpected delays that result in a longer period of study than first anticipated.

Each I-20 and DS-2019 is issued to a student for a particular program of study, level, and time period. A new I-20 or DS-2019 with a new program end date must be issued if the student is not able to complete the program requirements before the program end date.

Initial documents are generally issued with the following lengths of time:

Bachelors Degree- 4 years

Master's Degree- 2 years

PROGRAM EXTENSION PROCESS

• The student must request a program extension before their current I-20 or DS-2019 expires. 
• A program extension can be requested by submitting the program extension application and financial documents.
• The immigration advisor will submit the request to SEVIS after document review and approval.
• The student will be notified via e-mail when the new I-20 or DS-2019 is ready for signature and pick-up.