Extend or Shorten Program Completion Date
When you are first admitted to your program of study, the University of Rochester is required to estimate your completion date for government reporting purposes. This date is listed on your I-20 (under "Program of Study") or DS-2019 and is tied to the standard period of time allowed for students to complete their studies toward a particular program.
Many students require additional time to complete their studies, while others are able to finish early. In either case, you may need to update your F-1 or J-1 record. Use the Extend/Shorten Program Completion Date form (PDF).
Reminder: Your permission for on-campus employments (F-1 or J-1) will be tied to your new completion date.
Extend Your Program
If you will not finish your degree requirements by the listed completion date, you must apply for a program extension at least one (1) month before the date your current document will expire. A new I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued to reflect your new end date.
Failure to request a program extension in a timely manner can result in a violation of immigration status, which can cause significant complications and may impact your eligibility for future F-1 or J-1 benefits.
Extensions must be based on a compelling academic or medical need to explain the additional time.
Shorten Your Program
If you will complete your degree earlier than expected, your SEVIS record and immigration document should be updated. However, the International Services Office (ISO) will only process such changes when plans to complete early have been officially made with your academic division. This may require formal reclassification or completion of certain milestones toward your degree requirements.
If you plan to apply for post-completion work permission, you do NOT need to process this form separately. Instead, please use the appropriate form for F-1 Optional Practical Training or J-1 Academic Training. Your program completion date will be updated based on the school's recommendation for employment authorization.