Program Extension on I-20 or DS-2019:
If you thought that you were going to complete your degree in December 2009 and now realize that you are going to need more time, please note the expiration date of your document (item #5 for I-20 or item #3 for DS-2019). Expired documents may automatically put you out of status. It is important to know that we cannot extend your document after it has expired. If an extension is necessary, please submit a complete program extension request at least 3 weeks before the end date on the I-20 or DS-2019 and register for subsequent terms. **Please keep in mind that ISPS will be closed during the Winter Break December 24, 2009 to January 4, 2010.**
If you are graduating in December 2009 and your program end date is beyond December, please bring an letter from your academic advisor with program completion date. ISPS must shorten your I-20 or DS-2019 to reflect your actual completion date. Students who are planning to transfer to another U.S. school will need to contact ISPS regarding transfer procedure and timeframe.
Attention F-1 Students:
If you are completing your degree in December 2009 and are planning to work in your field of study, it is important to apply for work authorization at least 3 months prior to the date that you would like to begin working. This type of work authorization is called Optional Practical Training (OPT). For December 2009 graduates, the last day to submit your OPT application to ISPS is January 15, 2010. ISPS requires up to 10 business days to process an OPT application. After the application has been reviewed and processed by ISPS, it must be sent to a USCIS service center (please allow 1 week for delivery). The average processing time for an OPT application at USCIS is 90 days. It is imperative that students apply for OPT in a timely manner.
If you are applying for OPT, you must have your Bursar's account paid in full. Undergraduate students who have concurrently enrolled at Pima Community College must make sure that their unofficial transcript is on file with ISPS.
Travel Advisory:
Many students plan to travel during the Thanksgiving break and Winter Closure. If you travel outside the United States or within the United States, you should carry your passport, I-20 or DS-2019 and I-94. Please make sure you have a current valid travel signature (each signature is valid for 1 year). You can obtain a travel signature within 3 business days at ISPS if you are registered for spring semester 2010 and plan to attend UA. Failure to obtain a travel signature could cause unnecessary delays in your travel plans and may even prevent you from re-entering the United States. Please see an ISPS advisor if you have questions about renewing your F1 or J1 visa.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has put together a comprehensive website
that includes tips for students and exchange visitors:
http://www.ice.gov/sevis/students/index.htm .
If you have any questions or concerns, please see an international student advisor at ISPS. Walk-in advising is held on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 1:30-3:30 pm, and Friday 9-11 am.
You may view the advising schedule at:
http://internationalstudents.arizona.edu/office-advising
If you prefer to schedule an appointment with an advisor, please call 621-4627.
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