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OISSS > For International Students > F-1 > Program Extension

F-1
Program ExtensioN

F-1 immigration regulations state that if you have not finished your program of studies by the completion date marked at item number 5 on your I-20 form, you must request an extension of stay within the 30-day period before that completion date. An extension of stay may be granted by an advisor in the Office of International Student and Scholar Services by notifying the Immigration Service with a new I-20 form that you have continually maintained status and that the extension is required due to compelling academic or medical reasons. Failure to apply for an extension of stay within the 30-day period prior to the completion date on the I-20 will result in your falling out of legal F-1 status, suspension of employment and payroll, and an application to USCIS for reinstatement and payment of a fee will be required.

To Apply for Program Extension:

1. Download the Academic Adviser's Recommendation Form or pick it up at the Office of International Student and Scholar Services and fill out the top portion yourself. Ask your Academic Adviser to complete and sign the form.
2. Prepare current documentation of your financial support for the remaining period of time you need to complete your studies. If you have family members living
   with you in Chapel Hill, you must provide evidence that you have sufficient
   funds to support them as well. Financial support documentation must include the cost of tuition and fees, and health insurance for the semester(s) in which you will be enrolled in courses and estimated living expenses for yourself and any dependents. Current living expense estimates are: $1,200 per month for the
   F-1; $700 per month for an F-2 spouse; and $350 per month for each child.

Bring these documents to the Office of International Student and Scholar Services within the 30-day period immediately prior to the completion date in Item #5 on the I-20. It is your responsibility to keep track of this completion date. Students who do not file for program extension in time will be considered to be out of status, will not be able to work, and will have to apply for reinstatement.

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services will issue a new I-20 form with a new expiration date and email you to come pick it up and sign it.

Please note that although you may have extended your F-1 status by extending the end date on your I-20, it may be necessary for you to apply for an extension of your F-1 visa stamp the next time you travel abroad in order to re-enter the U.S. in F-1 status. For more information on this, ask an advisor at OISSS.