Extension of J-1 Program of Study/DS-2019

PAUSED due to nationwide injunction: Fixed period of admission & extension of stay

Update on the DHS Fixed Period of Admission Rule: Implementation delayed

The DHS Fixed Period of Admission Final Rule (published July 17, 2026) was scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. However, because of ongoing litigation, implementation of the rule has been delayed, and it will not take effect on that date. For now, the current regulations remain in place and continue to govern F and J for nonimmigrants. This means the existing duration of status system for F and J students and exchange visitors remains unchanged.

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. government published a that creates a fixed admission end date for international students who hold F-1 and J-1 visa status. This rule changes the process for these students to extend their stays in the United States and adds other restrictions limiting the students’ ability to make academic changes. Re-entry to the U.S. on or after the September 15 effective date will result in the immediate assignment of a specific Admit Unitl Date (AUD); the benefit of the D/S transition provision is eliminated after that reentry.

Feel free to contact ISSS with questions. 

The program dates listed on your Form DS-2019 (item 3) reflect the allotted length of your J-1 program. If you will not complete your degree requirements by the end date indicated on your DS-2019, you must request an extension of your J-1 SEVIS record/DS-2019.

  • Extension requests should be submitted one month prior to the DS-2019 end date.
    • Failure to request an extension in a timely manner may result in the loss of your J-1 status and could lead to serious immigration consequences.

To request a DS-2019 extension, submit the DS-2019 Extension Request in the (Immigration & Academic-Related Forms).

DS-2019 Extension Request

The DS-2019 Extension Request includes three required e-forms that must be submitted in order.

  • You will not be able to access the last two e-forms until ISSS approves the first e-form and emails you a funding estimate for your DS-2019 extension.

E-Form #1: DS-2019 Extension Request Initiation

  • Provide ISSS with a summary of your extension request. Your academic advisor/dean or graduate program administrator must also sign this e-form.
    • This e-form must be approved by ISSS to unlock the remaining e-forms in the request.

E-Form #2: DS-2019 Extension Financial Documentation Submission (multi-submit e-form)

  • You must provide ISSS with proof of funding to cover expenses for the extension period.
    • You may submit this e-form multiple times if you have additional funding documentation.

E-Form #3: DS-2019 Extension Insurance Compliance

  • You must provide ISSS with proof of comprehensive insurance coverage that meets the  as outlined in 22CFR 62.14.