With the beginning of a new academic year, it’s a great time for designated school officials (DSOs) to review critical compliance material. Specifically, the program end date (PED) on the Form I-20. Proactive review now reduces the chances of encountering immigration issues later.
End Date Checklist
Using the following checklist helps DSOs systematically prepare for the months ahead:
- Review PEDs for active F-1 and M-1 students in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Identify students who may need a program extension.
- Identify students who may need a PED shortened.
- Confirm financial documentation is current and sufficient.
- Update financial information in SEVIS if needed.
- Issue an updated Form I-20 when program information changes.
Required Changes
Timely updates for a student’s official PED are important, because they’re only displayed on the Form I-20. Designated school officials must file new I-20s every time information changes. A student’s PED needs updates when:
- A student begins their program earlier or later than expected.
- A user entered the program dates incorrectly.
- A student’s change of status application to F or M is pending with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- A student completes their program sooner than anticipated.
- A master’s or doctoral student finishes coursework and requests post-completion optional practical training while continuing thesis or dissertation work
Extension Requests
If a student needs an extension request, DSOs must:
- Collect a written explanation from the student’s academic advisor or instructor supporting the new PED.
- Updated financial documentation covering tuition, living expenses and dependents (if applicable).
- Carefully review extension procedures, as they differ on a case-by-case basis.
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