J-1 Student Extension of Stay for Current Program

Extensions must be completed before the expiration date of your DS-2019; however, you can request the extension several months in advance if you know you will not be able to complete your program as expected. Failure to request an extension prior to the expiration date of your DS-2019 will result in a violation of your J-1 status.

All requests for extensions should be made no later than 10 days before the expiration date on your DS-2019.

1. Financial documentation showing adequate resources to pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses for one year of study or the remaining length of your studies, whichever is shorter
2. All DS-2019s previously issued to you, passport, and I-94 card.
3. Documentation establishing valid reasons to continue beyond your DS-2019 time limit. This documentation will be a letter to the ISSO from either your advisor* stating the academic reasons for your need to extend your stay at Columbia and the expected date of completion of your program of study, or your school or department reflecting approval of your request for a reduced course load or medical leave of absence based on a physician's certification. Examples of compelling academic reasons contributing to a delay in completion include changes of major or research topic or unexpected research problems.
   
   *If you are a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, all requests for an extension must come from your Director of Graduate Studies, not your advisor.