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 the OIA Student Portal, no later than one month before your I-20 expires. You need to know what semester will be your final term of required study. Your academic advisor needs to approve the request, which will happen automatically through the process when you submit it.
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 contact OIA for advising on this situation. We also strongly recommend you to consult with an immigration attorney regarding reinstatement.