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J-1 DS-2019 Extension

If you are unable to complete your academic program by the program end date listed on your DS-2019, you must request an extension.

You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with your J-1 immigration status and your DS-2019, including the program end date and expiration date.

If you will not complete your academic program by the program end date listed on your DS-2019, you must request an extension no later than 45 days before the expiration of your DS-2019. You will not be able to request an extension after your DS-2019 expires.

How Do I Find the Program End Date on My DS-2019? 

Check the first page of your DS-2019, block 3, which identifies the beginning and end dates of your academic program.

Image of DS-2019 End Date Location

Eligibility

You must be in active J-1 status and meet the following criteria: 

  • Submit your extension request in iStart no later than 45 days before the expiration date of your DS-2019.
  • Have maintained and are currently maintaining J-1 immigration status.
  • Any employment, if applicable, occurred only with approval from ISSA.
  • Full-time enrollment (unless you have been approved for a Reduced Course Load through ISSA)
  • Have complied with the health insurance mandate for you and, if applicable, your dependents.
  • The delay is caused by compelling academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research problems, or documented illnesses.  
    Note: Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extension.
  • You are progressing normally toward your educational degree. 

Requesting an Extension

Submit an extension request in iStart (listed under I-20 or DS-2019 Requests), which requires the academic adviser’s input regarding your academic needs. 

Notes:

  • You must submit new financial documents that cover the entire extension period when submitting the extension request.
  • If summer is your final semester, summer in-person enrollment is required.
  • Review the summer enrollment requirements if you will be completing your degree program requirements in summer. 

You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with your J-1 immigration status and your DS-2019, including the program end date and expiration date.

If you will not complete your academic program by the program end date listed on your DS-2019, you must request an extension no later than 45 days before the expiration of your DS-2019. You will not be able to request an extension after your DS-2019 expires.

How Do I Find the Program End Date on My DS-2019? 

Check the first page of your DS-2019, block 3, which identifies the beginning and end dates of your academic program.

Image of DS-2019 End Date Location

Eligibility

You must be in active J-1 status and meet the following criteria: 

  • Submit your extension request in iStart no later than 45 days before the expiration date of your DS-2019.
  • Have maintained and are currently maintaining J-1 immigration status.
  • Any employment, if applicable, occurred only with approval from ISSA.
  • Full-time enrollment (unless you have been approved for a Reduced Course Load through ISSA)
  • Have complied with the health insurance mandate for you and, if applicable, your dependents.
  • The delay is caused by compelling academic or medical reasons, such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research problems, or documented illnesses.  
    Note: Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extension.
  • You are progressing normally toward your educational degree. 

Requesting an Extension

Submit an extension request in iStart (listed under I-20 or DS-2019 Requests), which requires the academic adviser’s input regarding your academic needs. 

Notes:

  • You must submit new financial documents that cover the entire extension period when submitting the extension request.
  • If summer is your final semester, summer in-person enrollment is required.
  • Review the summer enrollment requirements if you will be completing your degree program requirements in summer. 

iStart

Access your iStart account.

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