I-20 Extensions

International students in F-1 and J-1 status can request an extension of their I-20 if additional time is needed to complete their degree.

Steps to extend your I-20

1. Determine the reason for your I-20 extension.
   Review the International Center’s I-20 Extension Guidelines to confirm that your reason for requesting an extension is acceptable. Unacceptable reasons for extension can be found on the International Center’s I-20 Extension Guidelines page.

2. Email the Robotics Graduate Coordinator.
   Email robotics-sso@umich.edu and provide the reason for your delay. The Graduate Coordinator will complete the Academic/Faculty Advisor Recommendation Form for I-20/DS-2019 Extensions and email it to you*.

   Note for PhD candidates: The Graduate Coordinator will email you the completed form after receiving the required advisor letter described in Step 3.

3. PhD candidates only: Before the Graduate Coordinator can complete and send the Academic/Faculty Advisor Recommendation Form for I-20/DS-2019 Extensions and funding letter*, your PhD advisor must email robotics-sso@umich.edu a letter on U-M departmental letterhead that includes:

   • Your expected graduation term
   • A commitment to funding you until degree completion
   • A description of the remaining work and the expected timeline for completion during the requested extension period. This letter should provide a detailed description of progress in the various phases of PhD candidacy towards degree completion, including dissertation research, analysis, writing, defending, and revisions, as appropriate.

4. Submit all required documents to the International Center.
   Once you have received the completed materials from the Graduate Coordinator, submit all required documents to the International Center according to their I-20 extension instructions.

*Processing note: Please allow a minimum of 2 business days to receive the completed letter or documentation from SSO staff.