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Application for Extension of Time for PhD – Sample Application for Requesting Extension of Time

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To, __________ (Receiver’s Name), __________ (Name of the University) __________ (Address)

Date: __/__/____ (Date)

Subject: Request for extension of time

Dear Sir/Madam,

With due respect, my name is __________ (Your Name) studying in department __________ (mention your department) holding roll number __________ (Mention roll number).

I am writing this letter to request for extension for __________ (Mention time duration). The reason for extension is __________ (Mention reason). I hope you accept this application. I will be highly obliged.

Yours Sincerely/ Faithfully, _________ (Signature), _________ (Name), _________ (Roll Number)

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• It's advisable to request an extension as soon as you realize you may need one, ideally well before the original deadline. This allows sufficient time for the university to review and process your request.
• Provide a clear and valid reason for needing the extension, such as unforeseen personal circumstances, additional time required for data collection or analysis, or unexpected challenges encountered during the research process.
• Depending on the university's policies, you may be required to provide supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate or a letter explaining your circumstances. Check with your department or supervisor for specific requirements.
• If your extension request is denied, you should discuss alternative options with your supervisor or academic advisor. They may be able to provide guidance on how to manage your workload and meet the original deadline.
• While it's possible to request multiple extensions, it's important to demonstrate valid reasons for each request and to communicate openly with your supervisor or academic advisor about your progress and any challenges you may be facing.

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Sample request letter for extension .

Sample Letter Request For Extension of Thesis / research work Submission. Request an extension of your thesis submission date.

Sample Letter Requesting Extension of Time

[Your Name]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s Address]

Subject: Extension Request

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to request a brief extension of time for [briefly state the reason]. I kindly ask for [number of days] additional days to ensure the quality of my work. Your consideration is greatly appreciated.

Requesting a Deadline Extension

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Deadline Extension Request

I am writing to respectfully request an extension for the upcoming deadline on [mention the deadline date] for [briefly explain the project or task]. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I require [number of days] extra days to ensure the project’s completion to the best of my abilities. Your understanding and consideration are greatly appreciated.

Request Letter to Extend Date

[Recipient’ Name]

Subject: Request for Deadline Extension

I am writing to formally request an extension for the deadline of [mention the original deadline date] for [briefly describe the task or project]. Unfortunately, due to [briefly explain the reason for needing an extension], I am unable to meet the original deadline.

I kindly request an extension of [number of days] to ensure that I can complete this task effectively and to the best of my abilities. I understand the importance of meeting deadlines and apologize for any inconvenience caused. Your understanding and consideration of this request would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sample Request Letter for Extension

Subject: Letter of request for extension for submission of thesis

Respected Graduate Studies office,

I am writing this letter to request an extension in the deadline for submitting my Master thesis. The date for submission is Sep 19, 2023, but I still have some writing work pending and fear that I will not be able to complete it within the original time frame.

Kindly consider the following reasons why I could not complete my research on time: At this stage in the research we are considering filling a patent file before we submit the thesis to the external reviewer only we need few weeks. Kindly consider my personal circumstance since I got pregnant and I had some complications during that time and after the childbirth. I wasn’t in any condition to work or study and hence, was unable to do any work on my thesis during almost one year. (A medical report is attached with the form). further more, I ‘m working in a full time job which slowed me down to finish my experiment work.

Considering my problem, kindly grant me an extension of few weeks only for submitting the thesis. I assure you that I will complete and submit my thesis well before the revised deadline.

Yours Sincerely,

————————–

Sample Deadline Extension Appeal Letter

To, The Dean, Allied University, Texas, United States of America.

Respected Sir,

With due respect, it is to state that I am student of M. Phil and I had scored good GPA in my two semesters of theory, but now this year is my thesis year and the date for submission for the thesis is ————, but I am unable to meet up the deadline as my some writing work is still pending because patent is to be reviewed by external reviewer before submission of the research thesis. I am pregnant as well and is facing complications in it and was unable to study or do any work related to the research and as a proof of my words I am attaching medical certificate of mine with this application and I am a working woman as well. All the three reasons are genuine in their nature and I need few weeks more in submission of the final research paper.

Kindly see to this matter and grant me more time for the completion of my thesis. Thanking in anticipation.

Yours Truly,

Ms. Rita Ronny,

Sample Letter for Extension

It is stated with due reverence that I am the student of this estimable university. I am in my final year and I have to submit my research project on 23rd of March. It is to inform you that recently my brother died and I could not handle myself. This drastic loss took a lot of my mental peace and time. It is my request to extend the submission date of my final research project. My nature of reason is very genuine and I hope you comprehend. I am sure that I will complete it by that time and submit you promptly.

Yours Faithful,

——————

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Academic Registry and Council Secretariat

Request an extension of your thesis submission date.

This webpage and the extensions application form have been updated as of 10 July 2020. These changes take into account issues raised by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The main changes made are:

• The guidance notes on the form have been re-organised and updated.
• “Covid-19 disruption to study” has been added to the reasons for requesting an extension.
• Normally an extension can be applied for on one occasion only except in exceptional circumstances. Where the reason for the extension is due to the Covid-19 pandemic more than one extension can be applied for.
• The evidence requested in support of the application has been reduced. Students are asked to provide a timetable for completion of all work on the thesis and the proposed new thesis submission deadline. Draft thesis chapters are not required.
• Statements have been included in the approval sections for the primary supervisor and Director of Graduate Studies

Students in their final 12 months of study or who have writing up status may apply for an extension to the period of registration and the thesis submission deadline.

Please read the guidance here and the notes on the extension request form, carefully, before requesting an extension.

PGR Extension of Thesis Submission Form [XLS 133KB]

• You may request an extension of up to one year if your studies are being affected by circumstances beyond your control.
• Extensions can be granted in periods of whole months.
• Extensions may be permitted for a number of reasons, including illness, maternity/paternity/adoption leave, personal reasons and financial difficulties.
• Normally only one application is permitted except in exceptional circumstances, for example if the reason is due to Covid-19 issues.
• Requests should normally be applied for at the latest 3 months in advance of the current thesis submission deadline
• Students who have taken up employment during their writing-up year or final 12 months of study may apply for an extension.
• An extension will not be approved solely to allow students to take up training, work placements, or teaching opportunities.
• Extensions will not be approved for students who are not making adequate progress.

If you will not be able to work on your research programme at all for a period of time it may be more appropriate to request permission to interrupt your studies .

Application process

First, discuss your application with your Primary Supervisor to review your progress to date and to develop a timetable for completion of all work on the thesis and to agree a new thesis submission deadline.

On the form please explain how circumstances beyond your control make it impossible for you to complete the thesis by your current thesis submission date, and attach your timetable for completion of all work on the thesis and the proposed new thesis submission deadline. The thesis completion plan should include a table of contents, chapter headings and timetable for thesis completion for each chapter. Please use the template provided.

Requests for extensions must be approved by your Primary Supervisor and the school/institute Director of Graduate Studies. Your Primary supervisor and the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) will review your application and, if they support your request, the DGS will forward the application to the Research Degrees Office by email to  [email protected]

Your request will be considered and the decision made by the Research Degrees Programmes and Examinations Board. When a decision has been made on your application, the Research Degrees Office will notify you and your school/institute.

Immigration permission

If you have Student Immigration Permission (formerly a Tier 4 visa) you may need to apply for an extension of your visa. Please see the  Advice and Counselling Guide before completing this form.

UKRI Research Council funded students

Students who receive their stipend funding from grants awarded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI – the Research Councils) should check the UKRI doctoral training grant terms and conditions with their Doctoral Training Manager before applying for an extension. UKRI monitors the thesis submission rates of its funded students. Please refer to Council specific guidance for further detail. The terms and conditions of UKRI funding take precedence over the Queen Mary Academic Regulations.

Writing-up status

Students in their final 12 months of study who have not already transferred to writing-up status should discuss with their supervisor submitting an application to transfer to writing-up status using the online form in MySIS . A student who is in writing-up status by the time of the start of the extension period will not pay fees for the extended period of study.

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How to Write a Letter Asking for an Extension

Last Updated: May 10, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 3,097,073 times.

Tips for Writing an Extension Letter

Write the date, your address, and the recipient's address in the upper right corner. State what your letter is about (like "I'm writing you concerning the essay due for class next week") and give a few details to explain why you're requesting the extension (like a "family emergency").

Sample Letters

Sample Emails

Following Formal Letter Writing Conventions

• If you are sending your request via email, you can omit the date and address portions and start with your salutation. However, make sure to use an effective and clear subject line. For example, if you are emailing a professor, your subject line might read, "Mike Smith HIST 359 Paper Extension Request."

• Even if you know them informally, this is an official request so keep the tone and content formal. Do not write “Hi, Jim,” for example.
• Try to find some specific person that you can address your letter to. Otherwise, it can appear like a form letter. For example, “Dear Senator Smith,” is preferable to, “To Whom It May Concern.” [2] X Research source

• To open your letter you might state, “I am John Smith a student in your HIST 456 MWF morning class.” This will jog your professor’s memory and save them time looking you up.

• It is best to close with an official “sign off” before your name. Some of the better options are: “Sincerely” “Best” “All the Best” “Best Regards.” [3] X Research source
• If you need a reply by a certain time, you should include that information at this point as well. You can always pair it with your thanks. For example, “Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you next week.” Just be careful not to appear overly pushy. [4] X Research source

Crafting the Content of the Letter

• Depending on the situation, you might need to consider your letter as part of an ongoing negotiation. In that sense, it is better to ask for a longer amount of time so that you can compromise and meet in the middle. [7] X Research source
• Gauge your pace based upon your current progress and what parts of the project have yet to be completed. For example, if you have worked on a consulting project for three months you should have a pretty good sense of how much is left to do.
• Be aware of the time constraints facing the recipient as well. They may be under their own deadlines that will now need to be pushed back. For example, college professors are often required to submit midterm grades and schedule their paper deadlines accordingly.

• A good reason might be the desire to be thorough or cautious in your work. For instance, if you are completing a project that could potentially impact the safety of others, pointing this fact out when asking for extra time could work in your favor.
• If you have multiple reasons for your request, choose the best one and focus on it. For example, if you are delaying a job offer you might want to tell them that you would like to conduct additional research into the transfer costs (if this is indeed true) instead of letting them know that you are also waiting on another offer. [9] X Research source

• For example, if your grandfather dies two days before your college essay is due, it is best to describe the incident as a “family emergency” as opposed to a general “emergency.” You may also want to mention his passing and some information about your travel arrangements. [11] X Research source
• Have your paperwork in order before submitting any request. You may need to lay out a timeline of prior actions and applications, especially if dealing with the government or another official entity. Showing that you have followed all steps of the process up until this point can only work in your favor. [12] X Research source

Sending the Letter to the Recipient

• If you are going to mail off a hard copy of your letter, make sure to print it out using a high quality printer with a good ink cartridge. A handwritten extension request is generally not acceptable. [14] X Research source

• Your recipient may be able to see the exact time that you sent the email. Be aware of this if you like to send off emails very late at night.
• Keep your email formal and that includes the address that you use as well. Send this email from a professional-sounding account. For example, sending a work email from “[email protected]” is appropriate.
• If you send your letter via fax, make sure to hold on to the confirmation page showing that your transmission was successfully sent and received.

Expert Q&A

• Try to keep your letter at one page of length or less. This makes it appear complete, yet easy to skim through. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be aware if your recipient will send you something in return, such as a confirmation letter. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Be realistic in the promises that you make. You do not want to get an extension only to spend the extra time completing additional work. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Make this one-time extension request count. You do not want to try for another one. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Check to make sure that you’ve included all necessary forms with your request. And, some groups will require that you use their form letter as a template. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview. 18 June 2020.
• ↑ http://www.uwgb.edu/UWGBCMS/media/career-services/files/pdf/Professional-Letters-Guide.pdf
• ↑ https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/writing-help/how-to-write-a-business-letter
• ↑ https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-ask-for-a-deadline-extension-without-losing-your-street-cred
• ↑ http://www.monster.ca/career-advice/article/delaying-a-job-offer-ca
• ↑ http://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2013/09/how-to-get-an-extenstion-on-a-paper/be-specific
• ↑ http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/recourse-recours/extensionoftime-prorogationdedelai-eng.html

About This Article

To write a letter asking for an extension, start with a formal salutation, like "Dear Professor Montgomery." Then, in the body of your letter, state that you'd like an extension and explain why you need one. You should also include a new, realistic deadline that you think you can meet. Remember to keep the tone of your letter positive so it doesn't seem like you're whining or complaining. Also, try to limit your letter to 1-3 paragraphs so that it's short and straightforward. To learn how to end your letter, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• PGR Handbook

You should discuss any changes to your studies with your supervisor/supervisory team in the first instance. You will need the support of your supervisor and approval of a PGR School Officer to make a change to your studies. 

You may find yourself in a situation of needing longer than your supervised study to complete your research. This is called an ‘extension’. You will need to complete an application form to extend your studies.

Is there a maximum time limit for an extension? Yes.  It is expected that you will normally submit your thesis by the end of your registered supervised study. This is the period for which you’re charged fees. 

An additional 12 month extension period is permitted for students who commenced study prior to 1 August 2010 providing it does not run contrary to the requirements of your funding body.  For students who commenced study after 1 August 2010, an application to extend the period of study must be made. Please ensure to read the information on Council Tax below.

Extensions can be granted up to a maximum of 12 months in the first instance. 

The combined period of supervised study and extension will not normally exceed the following:

PhD, DPT    48 months (for previously full-time students) or 84 months (for previously part-time students)  EngD    60 months (for previously full-time students) or 96 months (for previously part-time students)

MPhil, MD or ChM    36 months (for previously full-time students) or 60 months (for previously part-time students)  Other Master’s    24 months (for previously full-time students) or 36 months (for previously part-time students)

This means that if you were admitted with a supervised period of 42 months (such as those funded by NERC), you would normally only be granted an extension of six months in the first instance.

Students submitting an extension within the above timeframes, following the completion of their supervised study, must be able to demonstrate evidence of progress in their research and make clear the feasibility of submitting their thesis within the period of extension being sought. A thesis plan must be submitted giving target dates for completion of each chapter. 

When should I apply for an extension? If you are approaching the end of the end of your supervised study and require longer, you must complete an extension application form three months prior to the termination of the period of supervised study. 

What if I’m a sponsored student? Research Councils expect doctoral students to have completed within the timeframe agreed at the outset of your studies.

If you receive funding from one of the Research Councils, please contact [email protected] for guidance on your extension application. For avoidance of doubt, you should get in touch with the Engagement Team if you are funded by any of the following:

Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)  Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council (BBSRC) Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Medical Research Council (MRC) Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

If you receive funding from any source other than the above, it is your responsibility to keep any sponsor informed of the reasons for requesting an extension of studies. This means that you need approval from both the University and your sponsor. Along with your extension request, you should include confirmation that approval has been sought from your funding body, where applicable.

What if I’m on a Tier 4 visa? International students studying at the University on a visa should refer to the terms of their visa when requesting an extension. If you’re not sure about this, we would recommend that you get in touch with the International Student Advisers ( [email protected] ) to discuss what impact an extension will have on your visa.

Are there fee implications to an extension? Yes. If you have completed your period of supervised study but not submitted your thesis for examination, you are required to pay a continuation fee to continue their candidature for the degree in each academic year. These students must submit an application to extend their candidature.   Please ensure to read the information on Council Tax below.

What if I’ve already had an extension? Extensions beyond the normal extension limits will only be granted in exceptional circumstances, namely, where your work has been hampered by medical or personal or unexpected academic circumstances or exceptional circumstances arising from employment for which supporting documentary evidence can be made available. If you submit an application for an “exceptional extension”, you must demonstrate clear evidence of progress and must submit a thesis plan giving target dates for completion of each chapter.

In no case will any extension be approved beyond the following maximum periods of study, which include the supervised period of study:

PhD, EdD, DPT     60 months (for previously full-time students) or 96 months (for previously part-time students)  EngD     60 months (for previously full-time students) or 96 months (for previously part-time students)  MD or ChM     48 months (for previously full-time students) or 72 months (for previously part-time students)  Other Master’s     36 months (for previously full-time students) or 48 months (for previously part-time students)

Applying for an extension to supervised study The guidance above relates to students looking to extend following completion of supervised study. You may be seeking an extension to a period of supervised study . This is only for students who are granted additional funding and therefore eligible to request an extension to their period of registration. Full tuition fees are payable during extended periods of supervised study and it is your responsibility to ensure that financial support is available to meet the cost of fees and maintenance. You should contact Registry at [email protected] to provide a copy of your funding letter confirming that you have been awarded additional funding. Supervised study will only be extended if funding has been given to cover the cost of tuition fees.

Examples of good cause for suspensions and extensions The following circumstances are typical of what may be considered grounds for applying for an exceptional extension or a suspension of studies . The circumstances will either prevent a student from working altogether or severely affect their ability to work effectively.

a.    Serious physical or mental illness of the student b.    Death/serious illness of a partner, close family member or close friend c.    Unforeseeable or unpreventable events such as distress or injury caused by a serious accident; the affects of being a victim of a criminal act or the distress or serious disruption caused by fire, flood or other natural catastrophe d.    Serious personal problems such as relationship problems, family crises e.    Unexpected changes to the student’s source of funding (NB: students must ensure that they have the necessary funds before embarking on their degree) f.    Breakdown of essential equipment where a student is unable to continue research and the use of alternative equipment is not possible g.    Delays in obtaining ethical approval where approval has been sought in good time h.    Jury service; military service i.    Maternity or adoption leave j.    Delays in progress due to unforeseen problems with the degree programme and/or working environment (eg moving of offices/buildings, supervisor(s) changes and unavailability etc) which are outside of the student’s control (NB: the problem must be reported to the appropriate School at the time it occurs) k.    Study leave necessary for the degree programme (other than official leave of absence for study at an approved institution or fieldwork) l.    Internship/work placement necessary for the degree programme

The following circumstances will not be regarded as grounds for applying for any extension or a suspension of studies:

m.    The student or supervisor was unaware of policy and application procedures for interruptions and/or extensions for postgraduate degrees. It is ultimately the student’s responsibility to ensure that they are aware of all policies and procedures relevant to their degree n.    Further primary research and/or laboratory work o.    Long-term holidays/vacations p.    Inadequate planning and time management q.    Normal pregnancy (excluding statutory maternity leave entitlement) r.    Difficulties with English language (including delays as a result of proofreading) s.    Computer or other equipment failure or theft where use of an alternative is possible or any loss of work was avoidable, except where the work is lost through the failure of University of Aberdeen systems as confirmed by School or University of  Aberdeen IT department t.    Change in employment conditions: requests from part-time students who are working while studying may exceptionally be considered where a change in employment conditions was unforeseen. This will not normally be an acceptable reason for students in the submission pending or resubmission periods

In addition to the above, the following circumstance will not be regarded as grounds for applying for an extension:

u.    Circumstances encountered during supervised study, which should have been dealt with at the time

The final decision on whether a suspension or an extension is granted or not is at the discretion of the PGR School Officer on behalf of the Senate.

Council Tax

If your supervised study period has ended an/or are in a period of extension, you would normally be required to pay Council Tax. However, from September 2005,  Aberdeen City Council  has agreed to regard postgraduate research students who have previously been full-time whilst under supervised study as continuing to be full-time in the 12 month period following conclusion of their registration for supervised study.  Please note, extensions less than 24 weeks are not eligible for exemption from Council Tax. Find out more about Council Tax requirements in  this section . 

Graduate Program Admissions

Earn-your-way-in admissions.

You enroll in courses toward the completion of your degree before you apply for admission. Why? Because we know that standardized test scores and previous transcripts don’t always accurately reflect our adult learners’ current academic capabilities and drive to succeed.

Admissions Process

On this page we’ll guide you through the admissions steps, including:

• Requirements you must meet to be eligible for enrolling in courses toward the degree
• Courses you must take in order to apply for admission
• Materials you should have ready for when your application window opens
• How and when to submit your application
• The application review process

1. Check Your Eligibility to Enroll in Courses Toward the Degree

To pursue a graduate degree at Harvard Extension, you must meet the following criteria:

You hold a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent. View More

The undergraduate degree must be awarded by a college or university that was regionally accredited at the time of your attendance, with a degree conferral date that precedes enrollment in graduate-level courses taken at Harvard Extension School.

Students who earned bachelor’s degrees outside the U.S. should visit Verifying International Credentials to find out more information before enrolling in any Harvard Extension courses.

Students who were once admitted degree candidates should refer to  Enrollment Policies for Graduate Students .

The Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions makes all final determinations about program eligibility.

Additional Eligibility Requirements For:

Alternative Admission Pathway Applicants View More

To use the Harvard Business School Online CORe (Credential of Readiness) certificate , Harvard Kennedy School Public Leadership Credential (PLC) , or MITx MicroMasters Program credential as an alternative pathway to admission at Harvard Extension School, you must first submit a separate application through these schools’ websites to be accepted into their programs in order to earn the credential. Not all students are accepted.

Before enrolling in any of these schools’ programs with the intent of pursuing a degree at Harvard Extension School using the credential, confirm your Harvard Extension School degree program eligibility. Then carefully read the degree program pathway related to the credential and be sure you understand the program requirements, if and how credit transfers, the degree courses and grades you’ll need to complete for your Harvard Extension application for admission, and the expiration date of your credential toward admission.

Prior to your enrollment in any Harvard Extension School courses, the school awarding the credential must confirm with the student that the credential has been earned.

International Applicants View More

Verify international credits and degrees.

This requirement should be completed before enrolling in courses at Harvard Extension School. For more information, visit our Admission Details for International Students page.

2. Complete Degree Courses for Admission

At Harvard Extension School, your admission journey begins in the classroom. Here’s how to qualify for admission.

Register for the 4-credit prerequisite graduate-level course(s) that your field of study requires for admission. View More

See the Degree Requirements page for your field of study to find the stipulated degree course(s) required for admission.

Meet the grade requirements for admission. View More

B or higher Earn at least a grade of B in each of the degree courses required for admission.

Two-attempt limit on the proseminar You are ineligible to apply if you fail to earn the minimum grade of B or higher in two registration attempts of the proseminar, if one is required for your field of study. If you repeat the proseminar, both grades will apply to your cumulative GPA unless the course has expired, as outlined below. A withdrawal (WD) is considered a registration attempt. See  Enrollment Policies for Graduate Students  for information about how repeat courses affect your GPA.

3.0 GPA Earn the required cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 (equivalent to a grade of B) or higher from all Harvard courses. If you haven’t earned at least a B in all of your Harvard courses, use our  GPA Estimator  tool to determine your GPA. See  Academic Standing  for information on grade-point average calculation for the graduate degree program.

Be timely! Apply when you are completing your last required course for admission and within two years of earning your proseminar grade (if required). View More

Submitting an application promptly near the conclusion of your course(s) stipulated for admission is essential not only for your successful admission but also for degree program completion.

Moreover, degree requirements, including admission courses, can change from year to year and courses expire (as explained below), which may result in your losing degree credit if you postpone submitting your application.

As a result, students who do not apply for admission to the program in a timely manner are assessed an additional $300 delayed application fee.

Also, apply within two years of earning your proseminar grade. If the proseminar grade is older than two years at the time of application, you must retake the course and register for a section with a different instructor, if possible.

Refer to  When to Apply  for the dates between which you are able to begin an application. You cannot start an application outside these dates.

Course Expiration Policy for Admission

Courses over five years old at the point of admission will not count toward the degree. Potential degree candidates must plan accordingly and submit their applications to comply with this five-year course expiration policy, or they risk losing degree credit for completed course work. Additionally, admission eligibility will be jeopardized if, at the point of application to the program, the five-year degree completion policy cannot be satisfied .

3. Gather Your Supplementary Materials

Although you may apply only during certain times of the year, you can—and should—prepare your supplementary materials early so that you don’t miss a deadline.

Prepare for your online application. View More

Before the application opens, you can get a head start on it by following these preparatory steps:

• Collect the names of the colleges and/or universities you have attended and the dates of your attendance.
• Update your résumé to reflect your current work experience, education, skills, organizational memberships, and achievements.
• Applicants can refer to the OPA&A page in MyDCE for helpful resume and essay information. Open the navigation menu in MyDCE by clicking the three black lines next to the Harvard shield at the top of the screen. Choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the menu and then scroll to the Application for Admission section. Choose the “Application Tips” tab.
• Review tips and tutorials.  Review our  Tips to Avoid Plagiarism and complete the free online tutorials: Using Sources, Five Scenarios and Using Sources, Five Examples . Complete these before beginning the application, where you will be asked if you completed the tests but will not need to submit your scores.

Request transcripts from previous schools. View More

We require a current official transcript (i.e., a transcript issued directly from the school to our office) from each college or university from which you have earned a degree.

Electronic transcripts may be sent by your school to [email protected] .

Note : If your college or university issues transcripts using a third-party service, you must specify “Harvard Extension School” and our email address in the document recipient field. Transcripts sent to a general “Harvard University” account are not delivered to Harvard Extension School.

See the Submit Your Application section for instructions on how to submit paper transcripts.

Students with international credits and degrees must have them evaluated for equivalency as part of the admissions process. For more information, visit  Admission Requirements for International Students .

Additional Materials Needed for Certain Programs

Finance Applicants Using HBS Online CORe View More

Order your official CORe transcript.

Apply to the degree program only after you have been notified of your passing grade in CORe, as it may take several weeks for your transcript to be produced by Harvard Business School (HBS) Online.

You must request that HBS Online send an electronic copy of your transcript to Extension School’s Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions at [email protected] .

You must demonstrate proficiency in critical reading and writing skills by:

• Passing the test of critical reading and writing skills.
• Or completing the required expository writing course for your program before submitting an application.

View CRWS Test Information

Government Applicants Using the Harvard Kennedy School Public Leadership Credential (PLC) View More

Request a letter of completion confirmation.

PLC learners must contact the Harvard Kennedy School PLC Program to have this letter sent to the Harvard Extension School Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions at [email protected] .

Management Applicants Using HBS Online CORe View More

Applicants Using the MITX Micromasters Program Credential View More

Order your official MITx MicroMasters Program credential certificate.

To send your MicroMasters Program credential certificate to Extension School’s Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions, log in to your edX dashboard and share your student record with us. A secure link will be sent by edX directly to Extension School.

All application materials submitted to Harvard Extension School become the property of Harvard Extension School. Due to mandated record-keeping and archival policies, they cannot be returned under any circumstances. 

4. Submit Your Application

There are three opportunities each year to submit an application. Your window corresponds with the semester during which you are enrolled in your final course(s) for admission. Details can be found on When to Apply .

Start your online application. View More

Refer to  When to Apply for the dates between which you are able to begin an application. You cannot start an application outside these dates.

Log in to MyDCE to apply. Open the navigation menu by clicking the three black lines next to the Harvard shield at the top of the screen. Choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the menu and then scroll to the Application for Admission section to begin.

If you don’t have the option to choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” as part of your MyDCE menu, email us with a request to add it.

Pay the application fee. View More

A nonrefundable $100 fee is required to begin the application. You will be assessed an additional $300 delayed application fee if you have earned grades in more than four courses toward the graduate degree before applying.

Mail your transcripts (if applicable). View More

If transcripts must be mailed via post because your college or university does not offer electronic delivery, documents should be sent to:

Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions Harvard Extension School 51 Brattle Street Cambridge MA 02138

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Do not open envelopes addressed to you that contain official copies of documents. Instead, mail them unopened in a larger envelope to the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions.
• All materials must be received in the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions no later than the application deadline date for your application to be considered complete.

Materials are accepted and processed by the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

How We Review Applications

After grades become available for the term, advisors conduct a final application review and consider the following.

Academic Standing and Student Conduct View More

You must be in good academic standing with Harvard University, with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending, stemming from violations of our  Academic Integrity  and/or  Student Conduct policies. The Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions will consider your academic disciplinary and student conduct records at Harvard University and other academic institutions in making admissions decisions.

You should be aware of our  application expectations  as well as our  Right to Refuse Registration  due to infractions that include criminal records, which will also be considered.

Harvard Extension School emphasizes that no student has a “right” to admission into an Extension School degree program. Satisfaction of the applicable academic requirements and maintaining good academic standing are necessary, but not sufficient, conditions for admission. For example, Extension School may deny any student admission to its degree program if it determines, in its discretion, that a grant of admission would conflict with applicable policy; or that the student’s prior personal conduct, including outside the School, demonstrates that the student is not an appropriate candidate for a Harvard degree.

Financial Standing View More

You must be in good financial standing at Harvard as well as previous schools.

English Proficiency View More

English is the language of instruction at Harvard Extension School. If your native language is not English, you must have provided designated proof of English proficiency to register in the courses that qualify you for admission. And you must be able to register in future courses according to Extension School’s current English proficiency requirements.

As part of your application review, advisors will confirm you have met these requirements and will ask you to provide a letter of explanation if you do not. Students who have misrepresented themselves will be found in violation of Extension School’s Student Conduct policy . Their applications will be removed from admission consideration, they will be prevented from applying again in the future to a degree program at Extension School, and their case will be reviewed by the Administrative Board to consider grounds for disciplinary action.

Your Complete Application and Admission Decision View More

The School’s receipt of a finished online application, which includes a current resume and satisfactorily written essays, ordinarily constitutes a complete application. However, the Office of Predegree Advising & Admissions may ask you to submit other supporting documentation before your application is considered complete and will contact you directly in that case.

Additionally,  you must meet specific grade and GPA requirements in stipulated Harvard degree courses, as well as certain academic standing, student conduct, and English proficiency requirements as outlined above and on program-specific pages of this website.

Admission decisions are made according to the  When to Apply schedule and appear in the Extension application portal. For details, log in to MyDCE , choose “Predegree Advising & Admissions” from the navigational menu at the top, scroll to the Application for Admission section, and select the Application Status & Decision tab.

If you did not earn the required GPA and/or grades by the end of the semester, you will be notified that you may reapply to the program after you have met those admission criteria.

You may register in courses for the upcoming term while you await an admission decision.

Harvard Extension School does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry or any other protected classification.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

English and Comparative Literary Studies

Applying for an extension, can i request an extension to my period of registration.

If you are unable to submit your thesis by your end of registration you may be able to request an extension, depending on the course on which you are registered and the date on which you enrolled. Please see the relevant link below for specific information.

• MPhil/PhD Student enrolled on or after 1 August 2011

What information do I need to include in my extension request?

Your personal details

• University ID number
• Funding body

Extension details

• New submission deadline sought and reason(s) for request

Documentation required

• Overview of work completed to-date
• Detailed work plan
• Evidence - covering letter, medical evidence (as appropriate), etc.
• Supervisor's statement of support (email/letter)
• Statement of support from the Director of Graduate Studies

Can I apply for a retrospective extension?

Retrospective requests for extension will only be considered in very exceptional circumstances. Students who do not submit their thesis by the end of their extension period (or do not apply for a further period of extension) will be contacted by Student Records Management in due course and, if no submission is forthcoming, steps will be taken for the student to be permanently withdrawn from the University.

What happens if my request for an extension is granted?

If approved, your University record will be amended to reflect the new end date. Student Records Management may approach you or your department with a request for further information if your submission is incomplete or if additional information/evidence is required.

What happens if my request for an extension is refused?

If the Chair of the Board of Graduate Studies is not persuaded by the evidence provided, or is not satisfied that your situation is conducive to effective study/work on your thesis, the extension will not be granted. Student Records Management will notify your department and provide reasons for declining the request. In such a case, you will be required to submit your thesis by the existing deadline.

I can't submit my thesis by the original deadline, what can I do?

If you are not in a position to submit your thesis by the deadline, you would be advised to request to be permanently withdrawn from the University, but when your thesis is ready for examination at a later stage submit it with a ‘leave to submit’ request with support from your department. Requests for ‘leave to submit’ will be considered on merit - submitting your thesis late with the request does not automatically guarantee that your thesis will be accepted for examination. The Chair of the Board of Graduate Studies, who will consider your request, will need to be satisfied that there were good reasons for you to submit late.

If I don't submit or withdraw from the University, what happens next?

If you do not submit your thesis by the deadline and do not request to be withdrawn from the University, Student Records Management will take steps to withdraw you permanently from your course of study for non-submission of your thesis.

What else do I need to know?

Overseas students should be advised to seek advice regarding immigration matters before assuming an extension will have no effect on their leave to remain. They should contact either the International Office ( [email protected] ) or the Students’ Union Advice Centre ( [email protected] ). Students funded by a Research Council (as part of a 1+3 scholarship) should consult the Doctoral College , since the Research Council may not accept a request for an extension. Students sponsored by other bodies should be informed they will need to consult their sponsor about their extension request. The University will not be liable for any costs the student incurs as a result of an extension being approved. Students should also be aware that they may be required to pay Council Tax during their extension period.

Science and Engineering Doctoral Academy

Apply for an extension

You can apply for an extension if you experience a change to your circumstances that means you require additional time on your programme or to arrange submission of your thesis or dissertation.

Before applying for an extension, you should discuss your situation with the Doctoral Academy. This will help you determine if an extension is the most suitable arrangement for you. Once your application and supporting documents are received it will then be reviewed by the Department, following this it will be considered by Faculty Chair/ Panel for a decision.  This can take up to 5 weeks to complete and for you to be notified of the decision. It is recommended you submit your application at least two months before the end of your programme. Extensions are unfunded unless your funder or supervisor has specific funding available that may be applied. 

Extending your studies or submission deadline can affect:

• your finances, including existing loans, tuition fee agreements and sponsorship arrangements;
• your accommodation, for example if you are living in halls of residence;
• your visa and ATAS status (if you are an international student). Further guidance is available from the Student Immigration Team .

As part of your application, you will be asked to include any relevant documents and correspondence. 

Types of extension

Extension to your programme.

An extension to your programme will extend your research time at the end of your programme and your submission deadline. Tuition fees will be charged on a pro rata basis for the period of extension.

The total period(s) of an extension to your programme must not normally exceed 12 months during the full period of your degree. Any further extensions beyond 12 months will only be permitted under the most exceptional circumstances.

Requests for an extension to your programme must be submitted within six months of your programme end date.

Tuition fees will be charged on a pro rata basis for the period of extension. Extensions are unfunded unless your funder or supervisor has specific funding available that may be applied. 

Extension to your Submission Pending period

The purpose of the submission pending period is to write up your thesis, not to undertake further research.

You must be registered in the submission pending period to apply for an extension to this period.

Only issues which occur in the submission pending period can be considered (any delays or problems which occurred during the period of study cannot be taken in consideration).

Applications for an extension to the submission pending period must be submitted at least two months before the final deadline for submission.

Extension to your minor corrections deadline

An extension to the minor corrections deadline will extend your final submission deadline.

Only delays, issues or problems which occur in the minor corrections period can be considered.

Extension to your re-submission deadline

An extension to the re-submission deadline will extend the time you have to submit a revised thesis.

Only delays, issues or problems which occur in the re-submission period can be considered.

Completing the form

Before completing the form, you should have:.

• read and understood implications for your tuition fees and your financial situation ;
• read and understood the Change of Circumstances Policy for Postgraduate Research Students ;
• discussed the interruption with the Doctoral Academy and with your supervisor(s);
• discussed any ATAS and visa implications with the Student Immigration Team if you are an international PGR;
• discussed the extension with your sponsor if you are on a funded studentship. If the terms and conditions of your funding require confirmation from your funder that you are eligible to apply for this extension, you will need to attach evidence of this approval as part of your application (this evidence should also confirm if the funder is willing to pay additional tuition fees and/or living costs if appropriate).

What you'll need to complete the form

To complete your application for an extension you will need to upload your supporting evidence, a completion plan, and a letter of support from your supervisor. Without these documents, your application will not be considered.

You will need a letter of support from your supervisor. The letter can be a copy of an email sent by your supervisor, or a Word or PDF document written by them. Where applicable, the letter should contain the following:

• A note, if appropriate, on the current status of the research/project and thesis
• Confirmation all interested parties (e.g. research sponsors, research collaborators, and the Visa Team) have been consulted and agree to support the interruption.

The completion plan should contain a summary of work completed to date and a timeline for work still to be completed. A completion plan is not required for an application for an extension to minor corrections.

You will need any relevant supporting evidence as part of your application. Examples of evidence we accept include:

• extracts from your medical notes (you can request these from your GP practice);
• letters from a doctor or medical professional about a change in your health or the health of someone close to you;
• internal confirmation of existing engagement with our Counselling Service or Advice and Response Service.

Please note that for medical conditions we do not require a specific letter from your GP or healthcare provider, and in cases of bereavement we do not require a death certificate.

Applications related to equipment breakdown and research delays must include details of the dates and the duration of the breakdown and/or delay.

We need the evidence you provide to:

• be written in English, or translated to English by an official transcription service;
• relate to the time your circumstances changed.

Your application will be reviewed by your department and then by the FSE Degrees Panel. It can take up to 5 weeks for a decision on your application to be reached.

If the application was submitted without the required supporting documentation, it will be considered incomplete and it will not be processed.

If you require any additional support regarding your application, please email the FSE DA Progression and Welfare team .

Extension form

Submit the extension application form via MS Forms.

Complete the online form >>

Sample Letter Requesting Extension of Time: Free & Effective

In this article, I’m sharing my step-by-step guide on how to craft these letters effectively, along with a customizable template and personal tips from my experiences.

Key Takeaways: Understand the purpose and importance of a request for an extension of time. Free Templates :  Utilize the provided templates to simplify the process. Learn the essential components of an extension request letter. Follow a step-by-step guide to write an effective letter. Gain tips on how to make your request more compelling and likely to be granted.

Whether you need extra time for a project at work , a school assignment , or any other deadline-bound task , knowing how to properly ask for an extension can make all the difference. Let me guide you through the steps to writing an effective extension request letter.

Understanding the Need for an Extension

Real-life situations often require flexibility. Whether it’s due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or personal emergencies, or simply underestimating the time required for a task, requesting an extension is a common and necessary practice in both academic and professional settings.

Essential Components of an Extension Request Letter

• Polite Tone : Start with a courteous greeting and maintain a respectful tone throughout the letter.
• Clear Purpose : State the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph.
• Specific Details : Mention the original deadline and the length of the extension you are requesting.
• Reason for the Request : Explain the circumstances prompting your request, being as specific as possible.
• Proposed Plan : Outline your plan to complete the task within the extended timeframe.
• Gratitude and Understanding : Express appreciation for the recipient’s consideration and acknowledge any inconvenience your request may cause.
• Formal Closing : End with a formal closing and your name.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Letter

Step 1: start with a formal greeting.

• Address the recipient by their proper title and name.

Step 2: State Your Purpose

• Clearly mention that you are requesting an extension and specify the task or project involved.

Step 3: Explain Your Reason

• Detail the reasons for your request. Be honest and concise.

Step 4: Provide a New Timeline

• Suggest a new deadline and assure the recipient of your commitment to meet this revised date.

Step 5: Acknowledge the Impact

• Recognize any potential impact on the recipient or the overall project and express your willingness to mitigate any issues.

Step 6: Close Formally

• Thank the recipient for considering your request, and close with a formal sign-off.

Sample Letter Requesting Extension of Time

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Their Title] [Company/School Name] [Address] [City, State, Zip]

Trending Now: Find Out Why!

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to request an extension for [Name of Task or Project] originally due on [Original Deadline]. Due to [Reason for Request], I am unable to meet the deadline and kindly ask for an extension until [Proposed New Deadline].

During this time, I plan to [Outline of Your Plan to Complete the Work]. I understand the importance of this task and am committed to completing it within the extended timeframe.

I appreciate your understanding and am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for considering my request.

[Your Name]

Tips for a Successful Extension Request

• Be Honest : Provide a genuine reason for your request.
• Be Early : Request the extension as soon as you realize you need it.
• Offer Solutions : Show your commitment to completing the task.
• Keep It Professional : Maintain a respectful and formal tone.
• Proofread : Ensure your letter is error-free and professional.

Related Posts

• 3 Proven Letter Samples: Secure Your Extension!
• Sample Letter for Extension of Time to Project: Free & Effective
• Assignment Extension Request Letter Example: Free & Effective

Template: Letter Requesting Extension Of Time

[Your Name] [Your Position/Title] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Position/Title] [Company/Organization Name] [Address]

Subject: Request for Extension on [Project/Assignment Name]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request an extension of time for [specific task/project/assignment]. Due to [reason], it has become challenging to complete the work by the originally agreed deadline of [original deadline].

In light of these challenges, I kindly request an extension until [new deadline]. This additional time will enable me to [explain briefly what you will accomplish during the extension period].

Table: Adjusted Timeline | Milestone                       | Revised Date          | |———————————|—————————| | [Milestone 1]                  | [New Date 1]           | | [Milestone 2]                  | [New Date 2]           |

I appreciate your understanding and patience in this matter. Thank you for considering my request, and I am available for any further discussion or clarification.

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

Writing a letter requesting an extension of time involves clear communication, a valid justification, and a demonstration of professionalism. Use the guide and template provided to effectively convey your request, enhancing your chances of receiving a favorable response. Remember to be respectful, concise, and appreciative in your approach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Should I Include in a Letter Requesting an Extension of Time?

Answer: When I write a letter requesting an extension of time, I always ensure it’s clear, concise, and professional. Firstly, I address the letter to the specific person responsible for the decision. 

It’s crucial to use a formal tone and be polite. I start by stating my request explicitly, for example, “I am writing to request an extension on the XYZ project deadline.”

Then, I provide a brief explanation of why I need the extension. I’ve found it important to be honest and specific about my reasons, whether it’s unexpected challenges, resource limitations, or personal issues. However, I avoid over-explaining or offering unnecessary details that might weaken my request.

Next, I propose a new deadline. I make sure this is realistic and considerate of the other party’s time constraints. I also explain how I plan to manage the project effectively within the extended timeframe. This shows that I’ve thought through the implications of the extension and am committed to meeting my obligations.

I conclude the letter by expressing gratitude for their consideration and offering to discuss the matter further if needed. I always proofread the letter for clarity and professionalism before sending it. This approach has helped me successfully negotiate extensions while maintaining positive relationships with clients and supervisors.

Q: How Do I Politely Ask for More Time on a Deadline?

Answer: When I need to ask for more time on a deadline, I make sure to do so politely and professionally. First, I acknowledge the importance of the deadline and express my commitment to the task. For instance, I might start by saying, “I understand the significance of this deadline and have been diligently working towards it.”

Then, I clearly state my request for an extension, being concise yet detailed about the reason. I’ve learned that providing context helps, but it’s important to keep it professional and avoid overly personal details. 

For example, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a delay in receiving necessary data, I am requesting an additional week to complete the project.”

I also suggest a new deadline, ensuring it’s reasonable and showing that I have a plan to meet it. For example, “I believe I can complete the project by [new date], ensuring all deliverables are to the expected standard.”

Finally, I express my appreciation for their understanding and flexibility. I’ve found that ending the request on a note of gratitude can be very effective. I might say, “Thank you for considering my request. 

I am committed to delivering high-quality work and appreciate your understanding.” This approach has often helped me secure the needed extension while maintaining a good relationship with my supervisor or client.

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This guide is truly beneficial! It simplifies the process of writing an extension request letter with its clear, step-by-step instructions and valuable advice

I found the guide on how to write a letter requesting an extension to be incredibly clear and useful, particularly for someone who struggles with formal requests.

I appreciate the valuable insights provided in your articles. I plan to bookmark your blog and revisit it regularly. I’m confident that I will discover plenty of new information here. I wish you the best for your upcoming posts!

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How to Ask for an Extension on a Paper (15 Strategies!)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

This is how to ask for an extension on a paper from your professor:

• Ask for an extension as early as possible
• Ask in person (if you can)
• Show how you meet the extension policy
• Show that you care about your grade on your paper
• Suggest a solution to the problem
• Suggest a time frame that you can meet
• Provide evidence for your hardship
• Show what you’ve already done
• Ask during open office hours
• Make the email professional and respectful
• Ask for the extension in your second email, not your first
• Approach student support services
• Only ask for an extension once
• Consider asking for extensions on all your classes at once
• Tell the truth!

What you need to know about Asking for an Extension from a Professor

The rest of this article will show you how to follow those 15 steps in more detail!

Jump to Tip 1 to skip my introduction

Asking for an extension on a paper can be hard.

Sometimes you don’t know how to write an extension email request to your professor, or what to say to increase your chances of success.

Extended deadlines can be really useful when you want to boost your grades or are juggling study with real life. But you need to be strategic about your request.

Teachers have very different approaches to extending deadlines.

Some are very flexible, others almost impossible to budge.

Teachers get extension requests from up to 25 percent of all students in their course. That’s why they’re often so reluctant to give you an extension. Granting extensions can become a huge chore for teachers.

You need to be careful about how you ask to extend your assessment deadline. This is because asking for an extension doesn’t automatically guarantee that you will get it.

You also want to ask for the extension in a way that doesn’t lead to a penalty and decreased marks.

Many universities have policies where students are given penalties per day an assignment is submitted past its deadline. This is particularly the case in universities that give number scores out of 100 such as in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

However, even in North America, you may find that your teacher will move your markdown from a B+ to a B- because your work was late and your excuse was not good enough.

As a university teacher, I estimate that I have had well over 400 students ask for extensions over the past decade of teaching. I have also managed other university teachers and seen how they go about granting or denying extensions.

Overwhelmingly, the students who got the extensions were those who followed most of the below key steps.

Read also: The 9 Top Extension Excuses and How to Ask Them Read also: 15+ Tips on Requesting an Extension

1. Ask for an Extension Early

Asking for an extension within 3 days (72 hours) of your due date looks really bad. It signifies to your teacher that you hadn’t started early enough and are now panicking.

Teachers are very much less likely to give extensions within 3 days of the due date.

The majority of papers are due on Fridays. If your paper is due on Friday, the latest you want to ask for an extension is Tuesday.

I always recommend to my students that they complete their assignment at least 7 days (preferably 14) before the submission deadline . This is so that when things go wrong in their lives they can still submit in time.

You are probably very busy with your job and family commitments. Nonetheless, you’ll need to find time to start your work early in order to avoid asking for an extension altogether.

When you’ve graduated and you’re out in the workforce, extensions aren’t an option.

Your boss isn’t going to say the night before your big presentation to a client “Oh, you got busy this week? No problem. We’ll ask the client to come back next week.”

Your boss is more likely to show you the door.

However, there are exceptional circumstances in your life that can be used as appropriate excuses for extensions . Some of these are:

• an upcoming surgery,
• a pre-booked vacation,
• you’re a carer for your parent, child, or partner

In these circumstances, you should get in touch with your teacher early on to ask for an extension. Ask as soon as you know that submitting on time will be a problem.

If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you need to ask for an extension a day or two before the due date, you might be out of luck. However, try the tips below to make the best out of a bad situation.

2. Show the Professor your Course or University Policy

There should be an extension policy that outlines what counts for an extension and what doesn’t. If you consult that policy you will be in a much better position to apply for the extension.

I recommend bringing the policy to the professor in order that they know you’re serious about applying. However, be careful not to look like you’re insisting on the extension.

Instead, approach the professor with the policy and tell them that you think you might qualify for an extension under the terms of the policy. Then, ask the professor whether they would consider approving the extension under those terms.

I find it much harder to refuse an extension if the student has laid the groundwork for their extension request. It’s very hard to tell the student that you are going against university policy and denying them an extension.

Similarly, your professor may have created their own policy. Search through the course materials on your course’s website (Moodle, Canvas, or Blackboard) to see whether there is any mention of extensions.

This is easier than it sounds. Simply download the little-read key documents on the course homepage that are generally labeled:

• Course Handbook;
• Module Guide;
• Subject Overview; or
• Some combination of the above titles

Then, conduct a word search in those documents (usually Control + F or Command + F) for the word “Extension” or “Late”. That should take you to the professor’s wording for their own policy.

Similarly, to look for university policy, simply conduct a search for ‘Extension Policy’ on your university’s website.

3. Show your Professor that you care about your Grade

When you contact your teacher either face-to-face or by email, you need to let them know you’re asking for an extension on the deadline because you really care about your grade.

Your reason for an extension request can be seen in two ways:

• You want an extension because getting a top mark is your priority and you need more time for that to happen; or
• You want an extension because other things in your life were a priority instead of writing the paper

Some of the best extension requests that come into my inbox start with a statement about your goal. Students often say ‘My goal is to receive X grade in all my subjects in order to qualify for a Master’s degree, further education, or a specific internship’.

Laying out what your goal is to show that you are asking for the extension because you want to do the best you can.

A teacher is much more likely to grant an extension to a student who wants one to ensure they do well. On the flip side, they will be less likely to grant an extension if you haven’t shown an interest or commitment to the subject.

Here’s where building a relationship with your professor in advance comes in very handy. If you’ve already got a long chain of email discussions or had some quality face-to-face chats about the subject, your extension request will be looked upon more kindly.

Every extension request you send should start with a statement showing that you want the extension because you are prioritizing the subject.

You do not want to leave the impression that you want the extension because other things took precedence over your studies.

4. Suggest a Solution so you Won’t Run out of Time Again

No matter how long you ask for, you need to use the extension request to show your good side: that you’re a fixer, not a complainer.

A great way to do this is to explain how you are going to fix the issue so it won’t happen again . If you’ve asked for an extension because you have run out of time you could:

• Explain that you have now freed up time every Monday afternoon to go to the library to study;
• Let your teacher know you’ve booked in for some study skills sessions at the library to learn to manage your time better; or
• Explain that you have talked to your boss about ensuring your shifts don’t clash with university activities anymore

5. Suggest a Time Frame for your Extended Deadline

Be proactive about what you want to happen if your deadline is extended. To do this, it’s best to let your teacher know how long you think you need.

Professors are often very busy people. They manage large groups of students, colleagues, and clients. They’re often off campus for multiple days working in the field.

Because they are so busy, they will likely approve the solution that your present to them. It makes the issue quick and easy for them and gets it off their plate.

Suggesting a solution and timeframe also shows that you have thought about what to do.

In this instance, the extension request can be seen in these two ways. You have come to the teacher and either said:

• “Here’s my problem – can you find a solution for me?”; or
• “Here’s my problem – I have identified a solution. Do you approve of my solution?”

Teachers are impressed when students have taken matters into their own hands. We want students to show that they are proactive problem solvers.

I recommend asking for an extension of between 2 and 7 days:

• 2 Days: Your 2-day extension request is an opportunity to say “I’ve done most of it well in advance, but after doing some more thinking and reading I think I need to make some edits. Can you give me 2 quick days to make those changes so I can submit by a best possible piece of work?”
• 7 Days: Your 7-day extension request is for bigger issues. This request is basically confessing that you haven’t really done much planning. For a 7-Day request, highlight that the problem or issue that you’re facing (Sickness? Family emergency?) might drag on into next week, so 7 days is a reasonable timeframe.

6. Provide Evidence for your Extension Request Immediately

Evidence is usually your golden ticket for an extension. The minute a doctor’s certificate is thrust under my nose I sign on the dotted line: Extension Granted.

While a doctor’s certificate is the ideal form of evidence, not all situations call for it. Here are some forms of evidence I’ve accepted in the past:

• An email from a child’s teacher. If your child has been home sick for the week, ask your teacher to drop your professor an email as evidence that the child has been off sick.
• A letter from your boss. If your boss has asked you to come in to do some extra shifts, ask your boss to return the favor and write a quick hand-written letter noting that they’ve needed to call on you.
• A receipt from a computer or car repair shop. Computer issues are one of the most common extension requests. If you don’t provide a receipt from the repairman or a photo of the issue, your teacher might scoff. The same goes for car issues. If the issue is with a car, be prepared for your teacher to respond: “Ever heard of a bus?”
• Newspaper clippings. This one’s surprisingly common. If you were in a car accident, the victim of a crime, or you had a death in the family, these things are often reported in the local newspaper. Take out the newspaper report or death notice from the ‘Births, Deaths and Marriages’ page and give it to your teacher.

No matter what the evidence is, it goes a long way.

If you provide evidence in your first email or conversation with your teacher, they’ll be impressed by your preparedness and are more likely sign off the extension on the spot. If you don’t, be prepared to be told to go away and come back with some evidence of hardship.

7. Show what You’ve Already Done on your Paper to Increase your Chances of Getting an Extension

This strategy works as a treat.

Come to your teacher saying “I’ve made an effort – look!”

Like the above points, this one shows that you’ve put some thought into the extension request.

You aren’t coming to them expecting a hand-out. Instead, you’re coming to the teacher with something to offer.

Showing that you’ve made a substantial start shows the teacher that you didn’t just forget about the assignment. It also shows that you haven’t totally prioritized everything else in your life. You’ve put thought into it, at least!

You can attach your draft in your request email or bring it in person. While you’re at it, highlight one point where you’ve been struggling.

When showing a draft, it’s a good idea to say “One of the reasons I’m not finished is I hit writer’s block at X point. It’s taken me weeks and I just haven’t been able to figure it out!”

In other words, your draft says to your teacher: “I’ve been thinking about this a lot! I want to do well, and this class matters to me.”

8. Ask for an Extension in Person if you Can

Asking for your extension in person can be one saving grace late in the game. If you’re within that 72 hours before the submission zone, asking in person might be your one chance to save the day.

When you ask in person, it makes it look like you’ve thought things through.

You’re saying: this request isn’t just an email slapped together at 11 pm the night the paper is due. I’ve been thinking it over for a day or two, and thought “hey, I really need to talk to someone about this.”

Here’s the other key benefit of asking in person: It humanizes you .

It is so much easier to say ‘No’ to an email than a person standing in front of you, cap in hand.

Don’t forget to bring a few things with you when you ask in person:

• An extension request form . If your university has an official request form, print it out and bring it with you. Ensure that it’s completely filled in, and all it requires is the teacher’s signature. As I said earlier in this post, teachers are busy. If you present an easy solution, chances are they’ll take it.
• Evidence or a draft . As I noted above, evidence of hardship is the golden ticket. Bring it with you to the face-to-face meeting. Similarly, waving a draft under your teacher’s nose shows them that you’ve gotten out of the starting blocks – you’re just not quite ready to submit

9. Ask for the Extension During Open Office Hours

The trick for this one is to bring a list of questions with you.

Come to open office hours with a list of 7 – 10 questions about the assessment.

Most of these questions should be to ask for clarity or advice on how to write the piece.

For example, you can ask the professor which scholarly sources they recommend, whether your thesis statement is okay, and whether the key points you’ll talk about will win you marks.

The question “Can I have an extension on this paper?” should be the last question you ask.

Asking for the extension last makes it look like you’ve not just come to open office hours for this one reason. It also shows you genuinely care and are engaged in the coursework.

If you’ve already developed a relationship with the professor and have attended open office hours previously, this trick will work even better!

10. Ensure any Extension Email request is Professional and Respectful

I know that many of my readers are online or distance learners.

For you, an email is an obvious and only way to ask for an extension.

For those students who can’t ask in person, remember that your email request must be professional and respectful in order to maximize your chances of having the extension granted.

This is so important, yet so often overlooked.

Students these days! They send emails like they’re text messages.

The way your email is crafted either shows you care, or that you’re a spoiled brat.

Seriously – you should hear the things teachers say about students in the faculty lounge.

Don’t give them an excuse to tell all their other colleagues that you’re a brat.

Here are some essential points for any email asking for an extension:

• Formal Greeting. Start it with a formal greeting, a comma, and then start a new line. Remember this is formal: you’d be shocked how many times students get my name wrong and don’t use capital letters for names. It looks terrible .
• Statement of Goals. Ensure you remember to state what your goal is, and how long you would like the extension for, provide evidence and let them know how far through you currently are (Steps 2 to 5 above)
• Formal Farewell. End it with a formal salutation – ‘Regards,’ ‘Yours truly,’ and ‘Sincerely,’ all work well
• Your Details. After the formal salutation, provide your full name and the class you’re in. Your teacher has many classes and teaches many courses. Ensure they know immediately which class you’re in. One year I had seven Katies and they all left out their surnames when emailing me. I was consistently confused.

These seem like self-evident points, but it’s ridiculous how many students fail to send respectful, formal emails.

11. Ask for an Extension in your Second Email, Not your First

If you send an initial email asking questions about the assignment content, your teacher will be more likely to give you an extension.

For example, often a student will email me 10 days before the paper is due asking for tips and advice. I’ll bank in my head “Hey, this student really wants to do well.”

Then when it comes time for you to email your professor to ask for an extension, the professor already knows you’re a good, engaged student.

The professor should be reminded that you’ve been working really hard on this piece, which will play into their decision-making when they decide whether or not to give you an extension.

One way to remind your teacher of how you’ve been working hard is to send your extension request email as a ‘reply’ to your previous email discussion. In this way, your teacher will be able to see all previous correspondence and see how hard you’ve been working.

12. Approach Student Support Services

For all universities I’ve worked at I’ve gotten emails from student support services insisting I give a student an extension.

Often, a disability support officer or a student counselor even has authority over the course teacher to grant extensions.

Therefore, if you feel you have cause to go to student services for counseling support or support for a disability, that’s a great avenue.

There are a few important things to keep in mind, though:

• You will need to do this well in advance. A booking with a counselor may take a week to organize. Then, the counselor may need to conduct a needs assessment, which will take even more time.
• Just booking the appointment may be enough. If your counselor needs to conduct further assessments or refuses to advocate for an extension for you, that’s okay. Contact your professor to ask for an extension of the deadline for the paper and state that you’ve been to see a counselor. This will make it look like you’ve been really proactive about the situation.
• You may not get the support you wanted. A counselor or student support staff member may deny a request. So, make sure you have good grounds to seek support before taking this route.
• Consider applying for an Extended Deadline as a Group

This happens often. A full class of students approaches the teacher and announces that there has been a glut of assignment deadlines all clustered together into one week.

Very, very often, teachers will negotiate with one another to ensure the deadlines do not clash.

Therefore, it might be a good idea to seek a representative to ask the teacher for an extension. A great time to do this is when the whole course cohort is together in a lecture or seminar . The teacher may ask for a show of hands to see that there’s strength in numbers.

Alternatively, the strength in-numbers strategy could be done by email. Email both professors whose deadlines clash and ask them whether they can discuss together the possibility of moving the deadlines.

Once again the earlier in the semester you do this strategy the better.

13. Ensure you only Ask for an Extension Once

One extended deadline for a paper is surely enough. If you ask for another extended deadline on your second paper, you’ll start getting a bad reputation. Then, rejections for extensions will get more and more common.

I’m not only talking about one extension per course here. I’m talking about one extension period .

Keep in mind that teachers love to gossip. If you’ve asked for an extension, you can put good money on word getting around the faculty lounge that you’ve done so.

In fact, often we’ll email each other right away to discuss and coordinate responses to extension requests.

To avoid a bad name, only ask for extensions rarely – preferably only once in your degree.

If you’ve got a good track record of submitting on time, this will be a tick in your corner when you ask for an extension.

Feel free to remind your teacher that this is your first-ever extension request. But don’t lie – they’ll check with your other teachers.

14. Ask for a Blanket Extension for all your Courses at Once

If you really need more than one extension due to a big life challenge, I’d recommend copying all of your teachers into one email letting them all know that you’d like one blanket extension for all coming deadlines.

One great tip for this blanket request strategy is to search for the academic who is in charge of your major or overall course and get them to coordinate the blanket extension for you.

To find out who is in charge of your overall major, check the College’s webpage that discusses your major and look for the name of the key faculty contact on that page.

15. Tell the Truth about why you want an Extension

Above I mentioned that teachers talk.

Boy, do teachers talk. They gossip in the faculty lounge, they send emails to one another about students and they’re notoriously condescending.

Any extension excuse you share with the teacher, your other teachers will know about it.

Sometimes this works in your favor – a teacher will already have heard you’re having a rough time and treat you with a little more care.

But, sometimes it doesn’t work in your favor at all. Especially when you lie.

Have I told you the story of the girl who had 3 grandmothers die in 2 years? That was a head-scratcher. Yep. It happened – and yep, the faculty was well aware that she was a chronic liar.

She never got an extension request granted again. So don’t lie – It’ll come back to bite you.

Your story needs to be consistent. Teachers talk to one another and they love to gossip about students. If your story to one teacher conflicts with the story to another, word will get around.

Okay, so you’ve got your 15 tips on how to ask a professor for an extension on a paper. Now it’s time to check out our 9 common extension excuses post to make sure your extension excuse won’t fall flat. There are tons of tips and strategies packed into that post that’ll help you with your request!

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 101 Class Group Name Ideas (for School Students)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 19 Top Cognitive Psychology Theories (Explained)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 119 Bloom’s Taxonomy Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ All 6 Levels of Understanding (on Bloom’s Taxonomy)

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• Directories

Extension of a research program

If you are unable to submit your thesis by the final day of your program and wish to remain a candidate who is eligible to submit, you will need to be approved for a program extension. 

Please note:

• PhD and Professional Doctorate candidates may apply for six months extension (full-time) or 12 months (part-time) at each request
• MPhil candidates may apply for three months extension (full-time) or six months (part-time) at each request.
• Research Training Scheme funding for domestic students ceases once you are on extension of program.  The University has determined at this stage that no domestic tuition fee will be charged for domestic extension of program students, but you should note that this is reviewed annually.

Step 1 Complete milestones

You must have completed all of the required progress milestones before your application can be considered.

Step 2 Submit application

Applications are completed using the  Manage My Degree eForm, via ISIS .

Your request should be based on academic reasons beyond your control, and related to your research rather than reasons of a personal nature (for which program leave could have been taken). However, unusual personal circumstances may be considered.

Each request must include the circumstances that have prevented you from submitting your thesis by the due date, and must include details of your progress towards completion.

Please note, applications must be submitted on or before your program end date, but not normally more than three months ahead of that date.

Step 3 International students requirements

International students resident in Australia for the period of extension are required to pay an international student fee (ISF). This fee is significantly less than the standard program fee, but you should note that it is a fixed fee for six months or any part thereof. The difference between the fee you will be charged and the standard program fee is carried by your area. 

International students who are resident overseas for the period of extension are not required to pay an ISF. You should note that your electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCoE) will be cancelled in this instance.

Renew your eCOE

A new eCoE will be issued once you have paid the fee stated in the letter you receive from your ANU College, and met any other conditions listed in the letter.  

You will be enrolled as an extension of program student when you submit your new visa to Student Central.

Advice to help

Step 4 Complete your research

Students on approved extension of program must remain enrolled until their thesis is submitted and are expected to finish up their research and thesis writing as quickly as possible.

Advisory information

• Domestic Tuition Fees (DTF)
• Research program leave
• Higher Degree Research tuition fees

Legislations

• Research Awards Rule 2021 (Latest version)  
• 135 ANU (135 268)

Scholarship Extension Letter

How to write a letter to request for a scholarship extension.

• Introduce yourself
• Explain the current situation of the scholarship: when it started, when it ends, etc.
• Request for scholarship extension.
• Outline your plan and explain why you need to extend the scholarship. Be persuasive.
• Talk about your exceptional grades and performance.
• Explain your financial situation.
• Explain how the scholarship will help you.
• Promise something in return: teach for free, payout the scholarship later, do research, etc.

Sample Letter

Graduate Research Hub

• Being a candidate
• Making changes
• Extension of candidature

What is extension of candidature?

How do i get an extension.

• After candidature has been extended

If you are not able to submit your thesis by your expected thesis submission date, you may be eligible to extend your candidature up to the  maximum course duration :

• 4 years (8 years part time) for a PhD or doctoral degree.
• 2 years (4 years part time) for a masters by research degree.

If you had commenced but not reached your maximum course duration by 1 March 2020 your maximum course duration has been extended by 6 months, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If this applies to you, your duration will be:

• 4 years 6 months (9 years part time) for a PhD or doctoral degree.
• 2 years 6 months (5 years part time) for a masters by research degree.

Extensions provide you with more time to finish your thesis when unanticipated delays occur and your research project deadlines need to be adjusted. For example, it may take you longer than planned to collect and analyse your data, you may need to revise your project, or you may have underestimated the time it takes to write your thesis chapters.

How many extensions can I have?

In most cases the available extensions are:

• two 6-month extensions (two 12 month extensions for part time) for PhD or doctoral degrees.
• one 6-month extension (one 12-month extension for part time) for masters degrees.

If you commenced but had not reached your maximum course duration by 1 March 2020, your available extensions are:

• Three 6-month extensions (three 12-month extensions for part time) for PhD or doctoral degrees.
• Two 6-month extensions (two 12-month extensions for part time) for masters by research degrees.

Note that if you have reached your maximum course duration, lapsed candidature or late submission processes must be followed instead.

How to get an extension

If you need an extension, your advisory committee will discuss this at your progress review meeting. The extension will be recorded and approved by the committee on the online progress review form. This will occur as part of the progress review meeting just before your expected thesis submission date.

You should maintain continuous communication with your supervisors so that they can assess your progress and decide whether to recommend an extension.

Talk to your supervisors or local graduate research administrator if you have any concerns.

Visit Finishing on time for tips on support available when progress difficulties arise.

Approval for an extension to your candidature occurs as part of your progress review meeting with your advisory committee (includes your supervisors).

You do not need to apply for an extension yourself, but your advisory committee will request one on your behalf via the online progress review form.

Extension process

• You will be contacted via your University student email account 12 weeks before your expected thesis submission date with a link to your online progress review form.
• A meeting for the progress review discussion will be arranged (follow the normal process in your faculty or department for arranging progress review meetings).
• You must complete your sections of the online progress review form at least 10 days before the scheduled meeting.
• Your advisory committee (includes your supervisors) will review your form and any attached documents before the scheduled meeting.
• Once you’ve participated in the meeting, your advisory committee will request an extension (if appropriate) and complete the online form on your behalf.
• The extension request will be assessed by your head of department.
• You’ll be notified via email with the outcome of your progress review, including further information regarding extension to candidature.

Visit Reviewing my progress for more information about the progress review process.

If you haven’t received the email notification about your upcoming progress review, please contact your local graduate research administrator .

How to get help

Get technical help.

Follow these steps to get help if you are having an issue with the Progress review form.

• See a list of known technical issues, and how to get around these Get technical help
• If you cannot see your technical issue in the list above, or if you are having issues with your username or password, contact Stop1 .

Get other form help

If you have a question about filling in the form, or your degree details on the online form are not correct contact your local graduate research administrator .

If you need more information about candidature extension, you can talk to:

• your supervisors
• your advisory committee chair
• your local graduate research administrator .

I've been granted an extension - what's next?

Scholarship recipients.

The duration of scholarships may be less than your candidature. For example, most PhD living stipend scholarships are for 3.5 years, while the candidature can be up to four years.

You can view the details of your scholarship via my.unimelb . If you have any further queries, please submit an enquiry online.

Student visa holders

If your student visa will expire before you expect to complete your degree, or if you have any questions in relation to your visa, visit  international student support .

if you have a question regarding your candidature and student visa please submit an enquiry .

Before your thesis submission

• Within the six months prior to thesis submission you must present your completion seminar .
• Two months prior you will need to complete the intention to submit online form so that the nomination of examiners can be arranged.

How to get support

You are expected to complete your thesis by the end of the extension to your candidature. The following resources may assist you in keeping on track and help you with your thesis writing.

• The Researcher Development Unit (RDU) and the  Melbourne Centre for the Study of Higher Education (Melbourne CSHE) run courses and programs for graduate researchers at each stage of candidature, and for planning for life after thesis submission.
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• Finishing on time provides tips on support available when progress difficulties arise.
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Please note that applications submitted after your submission deadline will be declined.

Doctoral, MSc and MLitt students please note that applications received any earlier than 3-6 months before the thesis submission deadline will be declined and you will be asked to reapply at the appropriate time.

Applications should only be submitted if you know that you need additional time and not 'just in case' you do.

If you are a research student who is not self-funded, the terms and conditions of your funding may specify a thesis submission date that is earlier than your submission deadline displayed in CamSIS. If you are unable to meet your funder’s deadline you should discuss this with your funding scheme and supervisor as soon as possible. You only need apply for an extension through your CamSIS self-service if you are unable to submit your thesis by your University submission deadline.

Extension requests for coursework other than the thesis or dissertation (for example, essays, portfolio coursework, the First Year Assessment) should not be submitted via CamSIS - please contact your Department for advice on how to apply.

For taught courses, short deadlines which would not impact on the dates on which the marks would be considered by the Exam Board and Degree Committee can normally be considered locally - see below under 'Your submission date and how to apply'. 

Note that a longer extension may result in you completing and graduating later than the rest of your cohort, so you should seek clarification on the impact of this from your Department, Faculty or Degree Committee, particularly if the timing of your degree completion will have an impact on your future plans, such as further study, employment or visa applications. 

For all applications made via CamSIS self-service, each case is considered in line with the policy of the Postgraduate Committee, which is set out in the guidance on this page. 

Instructions on how to submit an application can be found on the   'Applying for a change in your student status' page.  Please check the guidance below before applying.

If you have any questions about applying for an extension, please submit a query here:  student-registry-help.admin.cam.ac.uk

All requests for an extension must include the following information:

• Visa issues
• Medical issues or family circumstances, where a period of intermission should have been requested or a break from study is currently needed
• Attending conferences
• Writing/publishing papers
• Undertaking further research, unless your supervisor, department or Degree Committee make a very strong academic case for this
• A safety net 'just in case' additional time is needed
• Employment - this includes employment if you are working while completing corrections to your thesis after your viva
• Job applications
• Not wishing to leave Cambridge
• Continued funding
• Poor planning -  it should be feasible to complete your research project within the maximum time-frame for your degree (for example, 4 years for a full-time PhD). Therefore reasons such as having collected too much data or a change of direction (unless due to circumstances outside your control) will not normally be considered valid
• Wanting to incorporate new material at a late stage unless there is a very strong case for this material being  essential  to your thesis rather than merely enhancing its quality
• Needing time for proofreading, editing or support with academic writing or wanting more time in order to improve the quality of your thesis  - students are expected to produce a thesis to the required standard within the normal time-frame for submission. In planning your thesis you should factor in time for proofreading/editing. 

Research students who do not submit their thesis by their submission date and do not have an extension approved, will be withdrawn from study. They may be able to apply for  reinstatement  when their thesis is ready for submission for examination but not to continue studying. Temporary withdrawal may not always be possible. You can find more information about the effects of withdrawal from study on the  Withdrawal from Study  page.

Students on taught Masters courses should contact their Department for information about the penalties applied for late or non-submission of work. 

PhD students are advised to read the information outlined on the International Student Office webpage:  https://www.internationalstudents.cam.ac.uk/immigration/student-visa/extending-your-visa-current-phd-student

 It is advisable for MPhil students to contact the International Student Office to check the implications of a change to your submission deadline. Some considerations include:

• Graduate visa eligibility – you may no longer be eligible if your new deadline means that degree approval would not be considered on the same timeline as the rest of your cohort.
• Student visa extension –   Masters students are not normally eligible for a student visa extension.
• ATAS requirements – If ATAS is required for your course and nationality, a change in your course dates may mean that a new ATAS certificate is necessary.

The International Student Office can be contacted by emailing [email protected] . 

Your submission date (thesis/dissertation)

If applying for an extension to the deadline for submitting corrections to your doctoral thesis you need to apply in the same way. 

If your course does not include a dissertation and you have an extension for other work approved by your Department which means your marks cannot be considered by the Exam Board and Degree Committee with those of your cohort, please forward the approval for your extension to  [email protected]  so that we can update your record to show why this is still active beyond your original completion date.

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

FACT SHEET: President   Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families   Together

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. As Congressional Republicans have continued to put partisan politics ahead of national security – twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades – the President and his Administration have taken actions to secure the border, including:

• Implementing executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum when encounters are high;
• Deploying record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border;
• Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at our ports of entry;
• Revoking the visas of CEOs and government officials outside the U.S. who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully; and
• Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting individuals who violate immigration laws.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential. He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country. The Day One immigration reform plan that the President sent to Congress reflects both the need for a secure border and protections for the long-term undocumented. While Congress has failed to act on these reforms, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen our lawful immigration system. In addition to vigorously defending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals) policy, the Administration has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process.  Still, there is more that we can do to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families as well as young people educated in this country, including Dreamers. That is why today, President Biden announced new actions for people who have been here many years to keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy.   Keeping American Families Together

• Today, President Biden is announcing that the Department of Homeland Security will take action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children can keep their families together.
• This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence – status that they are already eligible for – without leaving the country.
• These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together.
• In order to be eligible, noncitizens must – as of June 17, 2024 – have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. On average, those who are eligible for this process have resided in the U.S. for 23 years.
• Those who are approved after DHS’s case-by-case assessment of their application will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. They will be allowed to remain with their families in the United States and be eligible for work authorization for up to three years. This will apply to all married couples who are eligible.  
• This action will protect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Easing the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates, Including Dreamers

• President Obama and then-Vice President Biden established the DACA policy to allow young people who were brought here as children to come out of the shadows and contribute to our country in significant ways. Twelve years later, DACA recipients who started as high school and college students are now building successful careers and establishing families of their own.
• Today’s announcement will allow individuals, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States, and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree, to more quickly receive work visas.
• Recognizing that it is in our national interest to ensure that individuals who are educated in the U.S. are able to use their skills and education to benefit our country, the Administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers. 

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