Most of the time, student will complete their program requirements before their I-20 expires. However, if your I-20 end date will expire before you complete your degree requirements, you should apply for I-20 extension.
You can find your I-20 expiration date on your most recent I-20 page 1, in the “Program of Study” box under “Program End Date.” If you will not complete your program by this date, you must request an I-20 extension in your TDS Student Portal, no later than one month before your I-20 expires. Please be aware your academic advisor needs to approve the request and you will also need to upload an updated Financial Statement for the additional time period.
To be eligible, you must be maintaining F-1 status and be in good academic standing. You are eligible for an I-20 extension if the delay in your completion of study is “caused by compelling academic or medical reasons.” Valid reasons include change of major or documented illness. Delays caused by academic probation/suspension, as well as addition/change of a minor, are not valid reasons for an I-20 extension.
If your I-20 has expired (program end date has passed), you are considered out of valid legal status. To regain valid F-1 status, you have the option to exit the U.S. and apply for a new I-20, or stay in the U.S. and apply for reinstatement to F-1 status. You should schedule an appointment to speak with an OIA advisor and we also strongly recommend you to consult with an immigration attorney regarding reinstatement.