On every DS-2019 there is a program end date under section 3. If for some reason you will not complete your program of study by the program end date on your DS-2019 you are required to request to extend the program end date (extending your DS-2019). 

It is very important that you do not let your program end date on your DS-2019 pass if you still need more time to complete your degree. Otherwise, you will be in violation of your J-1 status. You must submit a request for an extension of your DS-2019 before the expiration date of  your current program.

You are eligible to extend your DS-2019 as long as you have enrolled full-time and are making progress toward your academic objective.

If you meet the eligibility for an extension, you must submit the online application to ISSS. In the online application you will be asked to provide the contact information of an academic advisor from your major department at Temple. This advisor will automatically receive an e-mail to complete an online form to verify your program end date once you submit your form. We cannot process your extension request until your advisor completes their form. You must submit the request as soon as you are aware you need more time to complete your degree and no later than 2 weeks prior to the program expiration date on the DS-2019.