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Immigration Services

Extending or Reinstating Your Immigration Status

Extending Your F-1 or J-1 Status

As an F-1 or J-1 student at Clemson University, you are eligible to request an extension of your non-immigrant status if additional time is needed for established academic reasons such as a change in level or field of study, research concerns or documented medical reasons.

You can determine if you require an extension by looking at the expiration date found on your I-20 or DS-2019.

To request an extension, you must:

  1. Submit Form IS-120 (PDF): Request to Amend I-20, to IS with supporting documentation.
    • Academic adviser’s explanation for the extension.
    • Proof of funding for the extended period (assistantship, personal/family funds, etc.).
  2. Submit your request before your current I-20/DS-2019 expires.

Plan Ahead

Please remember you will be required to submit a reinstatement application if you are unable to file your extension before the expiration of your current I-20 or DS-2019.

Reinstating Your F-1 Status

(Please note the information below is for F-1 students only. Students in J-1 status who need to be reinstated must see an international student adviser.)

If you have violated your immigration status, you must apply for reinstatement. Common actions that require reinstatement include, but are not limited to:

  • Under-enrollment of credit hours.
  • Failure to request an extension prior to the expiration date of your Form I-20.
  • Miss the transfer of your immigration status within the required timeframe.

During the period you are out of status, you are not eligible for work authorization or other immigration benefits.

How to Apply for Reinstatement

Contact Immigration Services before beginning the application if you have any questions. You will need to prepare the following documents to apply for reinstatement:

  • Completed Form I-539 (available at USCIS)
  • Submit Form IS-160 (PDF), Request for F-1 Status Reinstatement to request a new I-20.
  • Provide:
    • Two original financial documents (less than six months old).
    • Copies of all previous I-20s (including from previous schools).
    • A copy of your passport biographical page, visa and I-94 card.
    • Reinstatement fee (money order or cashier’s check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security).
    • A personal letter addressed to the USCIS Inspector explaining:
      1. When and why you first entered the U.S. in F-1 status.
      2. How the violation occurred.
      3. That you have not committed any deportable offenses and are not employed.
      4. That you are enrolled full-time at Clemson University and intend to continue your studies.
      5. Brief explanation of the hardship you would encounter if reinstatement is denied.