J-1 DS-2019 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.

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 enrollment is required, and full-time enrollment requirements apply.