F-1 Program Extension Application
Program extension procedure for F-1 students
Extending Your F-1 Status
When you enter the United States (U.S.) to study full-time as an F-1 student, you receive a Form I-20 which specifies an
expected date that you will complete your program of study. For academic programs, this date is 36 months (three
years) from your program start date; for Intensive English Program study only, this date is 12 months (one year) from
your program start date.
In some instances, you may not complete your program of study by the end date listed on your I-20. If your Form I-20
will expire before you complete your studies, you must request an extension of your F-1 visa status. Extensions are
granted for one or two semesters, based on your anticipated graduation date. Extensions are granted for valid academic
reasons only and are not granted to pursue a non-degree course of study.
It is essential that you submit your application for an extension at least 60 days prior to the expiration of your I-20. If
you fail to apply in a timely manner, you may face various immigration-related problems, including being ineligible for
on-campus employment and practical training. Remember, it is your responsibility to maintain your F-1 visa status. The
Center for International Education and Programs is not responsible for your failure to request an extension in a timely
manner.
Applying for an Extension
Please complete the following steps to apply for an extension. There is no fee to apply for an extension.
1. Complete Part 1 of the attached Application for F-1 Visa Extension.
2. Request an appointment with the International Academic Advisor by calling the Academic Advising Office at 847-214-
7390. The International Academic Advisor needs to complete Part 2: Academic Certification.
3. Collect the following documents for your appointment with the Center for International Education and Programs:
Updated educational plan
Current Form I-20
Unofficial ECC transcript
Updated bank statement certifying availability of funds for a year of study at ECC. Check
www.elgin.edu/international for current rates.
Completed and signed Affidavit of Sponsorship from your sponsor(s) – available at
www.elgin.edu/international
4. Once you have collected all of the documents listed above, please contact the Center for International Education and
Programs at 847-214-7809 to schedule an appointment.
Center for International Education and Programs at Elgin Community College | 1700 Spartan Drive, B105 | Elgin, IL 60123
Email: international@elgin.edu | Phone: +1.847.214.7809 | Fax: +1.847.931.4897
7/2018