J-1 Intern: Extension of Stay

Although you were admitted to the United States for the duration of your status (D/S on your I-94 card), your internship program has an end date by which you are expected to complete that program. Intern programs may be extended at the request of your department at the university to a maximum duration of 12 months. If the completion date indicated on your DS-2019 form will pass before you can complete your internship, your academic department must submit a request for a program extension at least three weeks before the program end date on the DS-2019 is reached. IES recommends that you meet with your Department about the extension process one to two months before the end date.

Extension Process Requirements

You are eligible for an extension if the following apply:

  • You have continuously maintained full-time J-1 status
  • You have continuously maintained the required level of health insurance coverage for yourself and your dependents
  • Your SEVIS verification is current
  • The delay in completing your intern program was caused by unexpected research problems.

Procedure

  1. Meet with your academic department and supervisor to prepare, review and complete a Training/Internship Placement Plan (T/IPP), Form DS-7002, for the extension period.
  2. Have your academic department submit a request for an extension through the ARS system with an explanation of the delay.
  3. Submit to IES current health insurance information
  4. Submit to IES proof of financial support for the extension period.
  5. A new DS-2019 with the new end date will be produced by IES and sent to your academic department.