On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule eliminating Duration of Status for certain nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Please visit our Duration of Status Rule Change webpage for additional information and updates.
Extending Your Current I-20
F-1/J-1 students
F-1 regulations require students to maintain a full course of study and make continuous normal academic progress toward the completion of their degree program. If students will not be completing their degree program by the expiration date on their I-20, they must obtain an extension to continue their studies and maintain their status. Students must apply for and receive their updated I-20 before their current I-20 program end date.
Note: Your I-20 cannot be extended once it expires; please plan accordingly and follow the guidelines to submit your request. We recommend submitting it at least 30 days before your current I-20 expires.
F-1 Students
How to Apply for an I-20 Extension
01
Verify that your local address in My ASU is your current U.S. residential address.
02
Gather the following required documents:
- Valid proof of funding
- Students who request for an extension of one academic year, or at least two semesters, must submit proof of funding for the total amount listed on the Proof of Funding webpage.
- For students who only need an extension for one semester or will only be enrolled for one credit – please see the I-20 Extensions section of our proof of funding webpage for the required amounts.
- Your current passport (see passport biographical page example). Students must have a valid passport to be eligible for an extension.
- Your electronic I-94 (can be retrieved online from U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
03
Submit the Extension Request for I-20 eForm via the ISSC eForm Portal.
- Submit the Extension Request for I-20 eForm via the ISSC eForm Portal.
In the eForm, you will be required to include the name and email address of your Academic Advisor. They will need to confirm your need for an extension and your expected degree completion date. - Please Note: Federal immigration regulations permit an F-1 program extension when a student is unable to complete their academic program by the current program end date due to compelling academic or documented medical reasons. A program extension is not intended to provide additional time as a precaution or preference. Therefore, this will be evaluated as part of your extension request.
- If you have F-2 dependents, your dependent I-20(s) will also be extended.
If additional information or documentation is needed, the ISSC will contact you directly by email.
If approved, you will receive an email from the ISSC with your new I-20.