You must apply for an extension of your I-20 before it expires. We cannot extend your I-20 if we receive your application even one day after it expires. Please submit it at least two  weeks in advance to allow time for review.  If you have already applied for OPT, be sure to speak with an ISSS advisor before applying for an extension.

You are eligible to extend your I-20 as long as:

1. You have not registered for less than a full course load every fall and spring semester (unless authorized by ISSS to be registered part-time).
2. You have not withdrawn from a class during the fall or spring semester and were below full-time status.
3. You have not worked without authorization.
4. You did not let your current Form I-20 expire

If you meet the eligibility for an extension, you must submit the online application to ISSS. In the online application you will be asked to provide the contact information of an academic advisor from your major department at Temple. This advisor will automatically receive an e-mail to complete an online form to verify your program end date once you submit your form. We cannot process your extension request until your advisor completes their form. You must submit the request as soon as you are aware you need more time to complete your degree and no later than 2 weeks prior to the program expiration date on the I-20. 

As indicated above, you will have a 60-day grace period when you complete your program. During your 60-day grace period you can travel within the U.S., but you cannot depart and re-enter the U.S. during your grace period. You cannot leave the U.S. and then decide to return to apply for OPT.

If you have decided to leave the U.S. when you complete your program, please complete the "exit" form. This will allow us to update your SEVIS record appropriately.