If you will not graduate by the completion date noted in your I-20, you must apply for an I-20 extension as soon as possible and no later than two weeks prior to its expiration date. If you do not extend your I-20 in a timely manner, you will violate your visa status and forfeit future employment benefits.
Allow two weeks for the processing of your request.
Note: If you are currently studying for your MS degree, you may not extend your I-20 so that you may take the qualification exams for the PhD degree.
Acceptable reasons can include the following:
1. Speak with advisor/department for approval
2. Begin request through Bechtel Connect for an extension. The request will require the approval of your advisor and department student service's representative.
3. Once your advisor and student service's representative approves the request, return to Bechtel Connect, click on Check Requests / Continue My Requests in Progress and submit the Extension on-line request form. Processing time for the request with Bechtel is 5-10 business days.
*Students should submit the extension request AT LEAST one month before the current end date on their I-20
If you will not graduate by the completion date noted on your DS-2019, you must apply for an DS-2019 extension as soon as possible and no later than two weeks prior to its expiration date. Note that if you have a J-2 spouse with work authorization, you should apply sooner for extension.
Allow two weeks for the processing of your request.
If you have completed your program of study and want to participate in Academic Training beyond the completion date on your DS-2019, please see information for Academic Training for J-1 students.
If you are sponsored by a non-Stanford agency, please contact them regarding the extension process.
1. Speak with advisor/department for approval
2. Begin request through Bechtel Connect for an extension. The request will require the approval of your advisor and department student service's representative.
3. Once your advisor and student service's representative approves the request, return to Bechtel Connect, click on Check Requests / Continue My Requests in Progress and submit the Extension on-line request form. Processing time for the request with Bechtel is 5-10 business days.
*Students should submit the extension request AT LEAST one month before the current end date on their DS-2019.