Student Immigration: Normal Progress
Overview
Generally, F-1 and J-1 students are considered to be "making normal progress" if you pursue and complete the full course of study on or before the program end date the Form I-20 or DS-2019.
Suspension from JMU: ISSS is required by immigration regulations to terminate the SEVIS record of any student who is no longer attending classes due to academic or behavioral suspension. Should this occur, the 60 day grace period for leaving the United States is no longer applicable. You will need to make arrangements to leave the country immediately.
Extension of I-20 or DS-2019
You may find that the time given on your I-20 is not sufficient to meet your education requirements at JMU. This is especially true if you have changed or added a major or you wish to obtain several minors prior to graduation. If you find that you need an extension of your I-20 or DS-2019 form, you must complete the Program Extension application in Terra Dotta and get your advisor's recommendation PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION of your current I-20 or DS-2019 form. ISSS is unable to extend the I-20 or DS-2019 after the program end date of your current I-20 or DS-2019 form.
Also, note that ISSS is legally not permitted to extend your I-20 or DS-2019 if you need the extension only because you have performed poorly academically and have therefore not accrued the number of credits you need to graduate.
Exchange Students: you must also receive permission from your home school in order to extend your studies at JMU. Contact Kathleen Sensabaugh with extension questions.
MSC 5731
100 East Grace Street
Room 2nd Floor
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
