Updates to I-20 and DS-2019 Program End Dates for Graduating Students
Graduating international students should be aware of some important requirements regarding program end dates listed on Forms I-20 and DS-2019.
We encourage you to review your document carefully and reach out to SISS if you have any questions.
Program End Dates Reflect the Last Day of the Term
Effective Spring 2026 Quarter (not applicable to Spring Semester), I-20 and DS-2019 program end dates will reflect the “quarter ends” date on the UC Davis academic calendar instead of the last day of the month. This especially impacts those with on-campus employment as on-campus employment authorization ends on the program end date. Students should also be aware that this impacts their grace period and timeline to apply for benefits, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT). Refer to the SISS Employment Webpage for more information.
| Last Term Enrolled | Program End Date |
|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | June 11, 2026 |
| Summer Session 1 | July 31, 2026 |
| Summer Session 1 or Special Session | September 11, 2026 |
Students Completing Degree in Summer
Summer is considered a required term (not a vacation term) if the student is completing degree requirements in summer. Graduate and Undergraduate students completing their degree in summer must enroll in a minimum of one unit, which cannot be fully online, with a Reduced Course Load authorization from SISS in iGlobal if less than two units for Graduate students or six units for undergraduate students. The I-20/DS-2019 program end date will reflect the last day of Summer Session enrollment, as reflected in the above section. If the student does not have any enrollment in summer, their I-20/DS-2019 program end date will reflect the last day of the spring term. Students who register for Summer Session II (2) as their final summer term do not have to enroll in Summer Session I (1).
Graduate Students on Filing Fee Status
Effective Fall 2026, Filing Fee will not constitute a full course of study to maintain student visa status during the Filing Fee term. Filing Fee is a non-registered (0 units) status available to students who have completed all degree requirements except for the final administrative/clerical (non-research) steps. Students on Filing Fee will have an I-20/DS-2019 program end date reflecting their final term of enrollment, as reflected in the above section. Students should be aware of how an earlier program end date impacts their status and eligibility for benefits, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT). Refer to the SISS Employment Webpage for more information. Students may access additional Filing Fee information in iGlobal.
Please note that these changes are made with your best interests in mind. Maintaining compliance is essential for protecting your immigration status and ensuring that you remain in good standing throughout your studies.