If you are not able to finish your degree program by the end date noted on your F-1 I-20 or J-1 DS-2019, you may be able to request an extension of your end date.
The length of time allowed for an extension is based on the recommendation of your program administrator and faculty advisor. The maximum length of any extension request is 1 year. You may request multiple extensions as long as your program administrator and faculty advisor agree additional time is needed.
Extension Request Timeline
Please request your extension no more than 6 months before your current end date and no less than 2 weeks before your current end date. The extension of your I-20 or DS-2019 must be completed before the end date on your document. If your end date passes while you are still a student, it could be a violation of your visa status. The SEVIS database prevents any extension of your end date once it has passed so please do not delay your extension request.
Application Instructions
- Complete the Student Visa Extension form with your program (you may use Docusign).
- Attach proof of funding for the extension period you are requesting (see below).
- Turn in the Extension of Program form to ISSO at least two weeks before your document expires. If your request for an extension is approved, a new I-20 or DS 2019 will be emailed to you in around three business days.
Extension Funding
All requests to extend a visa status must be submitted with evidence of funding for the length of the extension. The amount of funding that must be submitted should cover the tuition and fees for the terms the extension covers, plus the estimated cost of living for the extension dates. For the most up-to-date estimated monthly cost of living, please see the UCSF Student Financial Aid Cost of Attendance page (use the "Off Campus" amount).
If your program or lab will be providing the funding for your tuition and fees plus a stipend, you may submit a letter from your program advisor confirming these details. Otherwise, you may submit a personal bank statement or bank statement from a relative (along with a guarantee of financial support) showing evidence of this amount of funding.