Extension of Stay

If the Admit Until Date on your I-94 does not provide enough time for you to complete your degree, you will need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) in order to remain in the United States.

Step 1:  Program Extension with ISS

• Request a Program End Date Extension through ISS when you need additional time to complete your academic program.
• In addition to the online request form, your academic or faculty advisor must email ISS to confirm your expected graduation date.
• ISS will issue you a Form I-20 with a new program end date if your request is approved.
• Program Extensions must be requested and approved before your current program end date.

Step 2:  Extension of Stay with USCIS

• Student (and dependents) file an extension of stay application with USCIS using Form I-539.
• Application can be filed up to 180 days before the current authorized admission period ends.
• Form I-539 fee:  $420 for online filing, $470 for paper filing
• Applicants must demonstrate eligibility for the extension:
  • Currently issued Form I-20 indicating additional time left to complete the program of study.
  • Evidence of a compelling academic reason, documented illness or medical condition, or circumstances beyond the student’s control.
  • Evidence of sufficient funding for the extension of stay.

While the Extension of Stay (EOS) is Pending

• Student should continue with their full-time studies while the EOS application is pending.
• If they filed prior to their program end date, on-campus employment and approved CPT may continue for up to 240 days.
• If they filed after the I-20 program end date, but during the grace period, continued enrollment is required and they may not work until the I-539 application is approved.

Instead of filing for an Extension of Stay, students have the option to receive a new authorized admission period by leaving the country and entering again with their updated I-20. Each option has different requirements and risks.

Apply for an Extension of Stay

• You can remain in the United States while USCIS reviews your application.
• You avoid the cost and uncertainty of international travel.
• Processing will take several months.
• You must pay the Form I-539 filing fee.
• Additional costs may include document preparation and legal assistance.
• International travel while the application is pending may affect or end the EOS request.
• USCIS decides whether to approve the extension. Approval from USCIS is not guaranteed.
• You must continue to follow F-1 regulations to maintain status while the application is pending.

Travel and Reentry

• You plan to travel prior to your status end date and will have your updated I-20 at the time of reentry.
• You do not need to file and pay for an EOS application.
• International travel costs may be high depending on where you are going.
• You will need a valid visa at the time of reentry.
• CBP decides whether to admit you and how long your new admission period is.
• Admission and the length of the new admission period are not guaranteed.

Disclaimer: International Student Services is not able to recommend one option over another. Students who need help making these decisions and formulating immigration strategies should consult an experienced immigration attorney.