J-1 students must apply for a program extension if they will not be able to complete their program by the end date on their DS-2019 form. The extension includes an explanation from the academic advisor and proof of funding to cover the additional time needed for themselves and their dependents. Examples of compelling academic or medical reasons:
- Change in major
- Change in research topic
- Unexpected research issues
- Original time granted not reasonable to complete academic program of study
- Documented illnesses
- Other
To be granted a program extension, J-1 students must have continuously maintained status. Per Federal Regulations, “Responsible officers may extend an exchange visitor's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program up to the limit of the permissible period of participation authorized for his or her specific program category.” [22 CFR 62.43(a)]
If approved for a program extension, you will receive a new DS-2019 form with an updated program end date. Please keep all old DS-2019 forms for your records. You can still be in status in the U.S. with an expired visa and an updated unexpired DS-2019 form. However, J-1 students will need to obtain a new visa to re-enter the U.S. if they are travelling internationally (with the exception of countries that are included in Automatic Revalidation). Please review our Travel and Re-entry information so that you understand re-entry requirements before you make plans to travel internationally.
Funding
The required proof of funding depends on your host department, level of study (undergraduate/graduate) and the length of your extension. Please check Mason's Certificate of Financial Responsibility for the latest figures (estimated costs on p. 2) and the Proof of Funding instructions to understand what proof of funding documents are acceptable.
When to Request a Program Extension
Your DS-2019 must be extended BEFORE your current DS-2019 expires.
- If you are a China 1-2-1 student: Please email China121@gmu.edu. You will need the IEP Academic Coordinator to sign the Program Extension form after your Academic Advisor signs the form.
- If you are a Global Education Office Exchange student: please discuss your program extension with the Exchange Program Administrator.
- If you are a J-1 degree-seeking graduate student: meet with your academic advisor and have them complete their section of the Program Extension form.
Do not wait until the last minute. Please note that OIPS needs 7-10 business days to process your request.
How to Request a Program Extension
You can request your first Program Extension in OIPS (document drop-off) or online. You will need to submit the following documents:
1. J-1 Program Extension form
2. Proof of funding originals that are less than six months old to finance the duration of your program
3. If your financial sponsor has changed since the last DS-2019 issued, submit a new Certificate of Financial Responsibility (CFR)
4. Doctor’s note if extension is medically based
The J-1 Program Extension form is available on the F-1 & J-1 Forms and Requests page.