J-1 Extension of Stay

An extension of stay is required for students in J-1 status who do not complete their degree program by the program end date listed on the DS-2019. Extensions of stay may only be granted if the student has continually maintained status and the delay in completing program was caused by compelling academic or medical reasons. Students must apply for an extension before these documents expire and may request an extension up to six months prior to the program end date.

How to Apply for an Extension of Stay

Extension requests must be received no later than 10 business days from the DS-2019 program end date. Submitting an extension request does not guarantee approval.

Application Steps

  1. Log in to myIO

    Use your credentials to log in to myIO.

  2. Submit Your Extension Request

    In myIO, click on "J-1 Student Services," then "Extension of Stay Request J-1 Students" e-form. Before submitting, be sure your academic advisor is aware of your extension request, as they will receive an email with a link to an online form that they must complete before your extension request can be reviewed.

  3. Step Three

    Complete the information requested and upload your updated financial support documentation as PDF files.

Reciprocal Exchange Students

In addition to the information above, you will also need permission from your home university to continue at UT for an additional semester. Contact exchangeadvisor@austin.utexas.edu or schedule an exchange student advising appointment for assistance.

Graduate Students

PhD students who seek an extension beyond seven years and Master’s students who seek an extension beyond three years from their original program start date will be asked to provide more detailed information.

Sponsored Students

If you are a sponsored student, you and your sponsor will also need to complete the form Sponsored Student Extension Acknowledgement. Please schedule an appointment for Sponsored Student Advising or email Sponsored Student Services with any questions.

Next Steps

  • An ISSS advisor will review your extension request within three weeks and notify you by email of a decision or need for additional information.
  • Students employed on-campus who are granted an extension will need to show a copy of the extended DS-2019 to their employing department, or take a copy directly to Employee Record Services to update their Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification).