Program Extension for J-1 Students

An extension is needed if you wish to continue your activities/work beyond the current end date on your DS-2019. Student activities cannot continue beyond this date into your 30-day departure grace period. An extension can only be granted for the purpose of continuing your student collaboration with your UNI department.

International Engagement
Eligibility

You are eligible to apply for an extension of your J-1 program if

  • Your UNI hosting department and faculty mentor are in agreement with the extension request
  • You will have enough funding to support yourself and any J-2 dependents for the duration of time on your extended DS-2019
  • You have active health insurance for yourself and J-2 dependents
  • You have not applied for and been granted a Department of State waiver of the Two-Year Rule
  • You have not already reached the maximum program duration for your respective J-1 category
  • The Immigration & Advising Coordinator has the discretion to extend a J-1 scholar's program up to the limits imposed by immigration regulations. These limits are specific to the J category the scholar is in
    • Research scholars and professors may extend up to five (5) years from the start date on their DS-2019
    • Short-term scholars may extend up to six (6) months from the start date on their DS-2019
How to Apply

To apply for a program extension, complete the I-20/DS-2019 Extending Request Form. Then email it and the required supporting documents (listed on the request form)  to the Immigration & Advising Coordinator. Make sure that you or your faculty mentor informs your department administrator/HR representative of your intentions to extend. There may be additional department-specific paperwork for you to complete in addition to extending your DS-2019.

Do not forget to have your department help you complete the department fee form. All students must provide proof of funds. If employed by the University, your updated invitation/offer letter from your host department will serve as your proof of funds documentation. 

Upon approval by the Immigration & Advising Coordinator, a new DS-2019 reflecting your new program end date is processed and issued to you (and to any eligible dependent). You will be emailed when the extended DS-2019 is ready. Please allow at least two weeks of processing for your new DS-2019(s).

After the Extension is Granted

Health Insurance 

Obtaining an extended DS-2019 does not automatically extend your UNI health insurance coverage. You must additionally extend your and any eligible dependents’ health insurance coverage.

Payroll

If you are on UNI payroll, you will need to share your DS-2019 with your department's payroll specialist and complete a new Form I-9. You will need to provide the new DS-2019, your passport, and your I-94 card/record.

Driver’s License

If you have a driver’s license, you will need to apply for an extension of your license with the Iowa Department of Motor Vehicles.

Additional Notes

There is no limit to the number of extension requests a scholar can submit. As long as you fulfill the purpose and eligibility criteria above, you may submit an extension request for review.

The fee is the same for all extensions regardless of program duration.