Monthly Updates / Upcoming Deadlines

DEADLINES
TimelineReminderDetails
30 days prior to program end date as listed on your I-20 / DS-2019Program Extension Deadline Is your I-20 or DS-2019 expiring?
If you have not yet completed your degree requirements, you MUST apply for a Program Extension at least 30 days prior to the program end date on your current I-20 or DS-2019.
For more information on the required process and documentation for requesting a Program Extension, please view our Visa Document Extension webpage.
OPT Filing TimelineOptional Practical Training Applications Accepted NowStudents can apply for Post-OPT up to 90 days prior to the program completion date and no later than 60 days after the completion date. Please note that completion date does not necessarily mean degree conferral.
EVENTS
DateEventLocation & Information
Fall 2022Office of Multicultural Affairs Fall ProgrammingPlease see OMA Programs & Events website for more information.
NOTICES
TimelineReminderAdditional Details
Address Change TimelineYou must update your U.S. address within 10 days of changing your address.For more information on how to update your address, visit our Maintaining Status page.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
TimelineReminderDetails
Reminder as of September 2022Beware of Phone and Email ScamsUnfortunately, phone and email scams are common. Learn how to protect yourself from scammers.
Reminder as of September 2022Avoid Shipping Errors and Processing DelaysAfter submitting an OPT petition to USCIS, do not reach out to USCIS to inquire on the status of your application prior to the listed processing time.
This may further delay the processing of your EAD card.
Ensure that your name is clearly marked on the mailbox that you requested your EAD be sent to on your I-765 - your EAD will not be delivered if your name is not on the mailbox.
Reminder as of September 2022Driving in Massachusetts on a Foreign Driver's LicenseForeign licensed drivers from any country, that meet certain requirements, may be eligible to operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts.
Reminder as of September 2022Possession of Marijuana is a Federal OffenseImmigration law treats all marijuana or other illegal substance activity as a crime.
Possession, use, and/or admission of marijuana use (legal or illegal) or any other illegal substance by persons who are not U.S. Citizens can result in harsh immigration consequences.
Illegal substances, including marijuana, are also prohibited on the UMass Lowell campus.
Customs routinely checks for marijuana and other illegal substances at the Port of Entry or during any air travel within the U.S.
Reminder as of September 2022U.S. Customs and Border Protection also checks electronic devices (pdf)Please check the ISSO Travel Page for more detailed travel information.