If the program end date on your I-20 or DS-2019 falls in May 2021, please review the following options for maintaining your status in the U.S.:
1. Apply for an extension of your I-20
If you have not yet completed your program of study, please follow the application procedures for a Program Extension for F-1 Students and submit a completed Program Extension form to CIS at least 2 weeks before your I-20 end date. Due to the pandemic, CIS is waiving the requirement for proof of financial support. Please note: the extension absolutely must be made by your I-20 end date. SEVIS will not allow us to extend your program after that.
2. Apply for OPT
If you are completing your program of study this semester, you may be eligible to apply for OPT. The latest USCIS can receive your OPT application is July 5, 2021. More information can be found on our webpage: OPT Application Procedures.
3. Change of Level
If you have been admitted into a new degree program, a new, change-of-level I-20 needs to be issued by the end of your 60-day grace period. Please speak to International Recruitment and Admissions regarding the issuance of your I-20.
4. Apply for a Change of Immigration Status
If you have been approved for a change of status, please send us a copy of your Approval Notice of Action for your new status. This way, we can update your SCSU student record to accurately reflect your new status.
5. Transfer to Another School
If you have been accepted to a new institution, please follow the application procedures for School Transfer to transfer your SEVIS record. Your SEVIS record needs to be transferred during your 60-day grace period in order to stay active. You should begin the program at your new institution with 5 months of your SCSU end date.
6. Leave the U.S.
You may remain in the United States during your 60-day grace period—but be sure to leave the country by the time the grace period ends.
Remember, if you need to extend your end date (option #1 above), you absolutely must do so by May 6, 2021. If you do not complete any of the options above by July 5, 2021, you will be out of status.
If you have any further questions, please contact CIS. For immediate assistance, you can call (320)308-4274 or join one of our advising sessions:
- Virtual advising: weekdays 11 – noon (Passcode: Huskies)
- Walk-in advising: weekdays 3 – 4 PM