J-1 Program Extension

Students who believe they will not complete their program by the program end date listed on their Form DS-2019 must request an extension before the end date. If a request is not made before the program end date the student will be out of status.

Note that extending the Form DS-2019 does NOT automatically extend the validity of the J-1 visa on the student’s passport. If the visa is expired, the student will have to apply for a new visa before returning to the United States. See more information about renewing a J-1 visa.

OGE can only process program extensions for the DS-2019s we issued; if the student has a different sponsor (for example, Fulbright, NSF, IREX, etc.), he/she needs to contact the sponsor directly to request the extension.

MSU CELS Building

Applying for a Program Extension

Step Information
Submit your request Program extension requests must be submitted through MyGlobal Portal.
Upload proof of financesProof of finances must show enough funding to cover all your expenses (and their dependents) for the additional time needed. The DS-2019 can be extended up to a year at a time. Each subsequent extension will require more detailed documentation. 
Provide your academic advisor’s informationThe academic advisor will have to provide an explanation of a compelling academic or medical reason for the extension and the new expected completion date. Note that our office cannot extend your DS-2019 to facilitate academic training.
Show proof of health insuranceStudents must show proof of health insurance that meets the requirements set by the Department of State requirements for themselves and their dependents.

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