I-20 Extension
F-1 students who are unable to complete all of their degree requirements by the program end date listed on the Form I-20 may request for a program extension. I-20 extension requests must be made at least one month before the expiration date on the Form I-20.
Students May Request an I-20 Extension for the Following Reasons:
- Any Change of major
- Extended time to complete a thesis or dissertation
- Change in research field
- Internship approval
- Medical reason
- Other circumstances
Eligibility Requirements
- You must have continually maintained legal status, to include keeping a valid, unexpired passport.
- Your extension request must be supported with a written letter from your academic department indicating the new expected degree completion date and the reason(s) for the extension request
- You must provide proof of adequate funding to cover tuition and living expenses for the duration of the extension. If you will receive departmental funding, provide a copy of the award letter with the stated amount.
- Extensions will be granted for a maximum of one year at a time. If additional time is needed, a second request may be submitted for the following year.
- Note: F-2 dependent extensions are granted at the same time as extensions for the primary F-1.
To request for an I-20 extension, please read the following instructions:
Please come to the IEI office to request and I-20 Extension or emai us at iei@memphis.edu.