Extending Your Program
Any student who is unable to complete her or his program of study by the date of completion listed in item #5 on the I-20 must apply for a program extension. S/he must apply for the extension before the date of completion indicated on the current I-20. If the expiration date has already passed, the student is considered out of status and may apply for reinstatement, if eligible.
Eligibility for Extensions
The student must
- Have "D/S" written on the I-94 card (the small white card that is attached in the passport)
- Have continually maintained status and must be making satisfactory academic progress
- Prove that the delay was caused by a bona fide academic reason (change of major or research topic, unexpected research problems, loss of credits upon transfer to Emory, etc) or documented illness. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extension.
Procedure
To request an extension, you must complete the Request for Program Extension Form with your Academic Advisor and bring the completed form to an appointment your the International Student Advisor along with proof of financial support of your education.
The amount of support should be equivalent to the current financial certificate for your school. Financial certificates are updated each year. Email isss@emory.edu to request the current form. If you are a doctoral student who is in tuition-paid status, you will need a letter from the Laney Graduate School (LGS) certifying the current costs for your program. If you are receiving funding from your school, you must have a letter stating the amount and duration, differentiating the amount for tuition and stipend. If you are not receiving funding from your school to cover all expenses, you would need to fill out an updated financial certificate and include an official letter from your/your sponsor’s financial institution verifying that you/your sponsor have sufficient funds to cover your expenses. Your sponsor will need to sign a section of the financial certificate confirming their agreement to sponsor you. Funds from CPT and/or OPT may not be used to document financial support.