Change of Academic Level
You are required to maintain status while changing to another academic degree level (bachelor's to master's or master's to doctorate, for example).
Applying for a Change of Level I-20 or DS-2019
Your I-20 or DS-2019 must state accurate information, including a new academic degree level. If you change your academic degree level while at Penn State, you will need to follow the steps below to receive a new I-20 or DS-2019:
- Accept an offer of admission at the new program degree level
- Complete the Change of Level form in iStart and submit new financial documentation.
This checklist must be completed, and a new I-20/DS-2019 must be issued no later than the end of your grace period.
Note: Enrollment in your new program must begin at the next available session start date but no more than 5 months from the end of the last program.
Applying for a Change of Level I-20 or DS-2019
Your I-20 or DS-2019 must state accurate information, including a new academic degree level. If you change your academic degree level while at Penn State, you will need to follow the steps below to receive a new I-20 or DS-2019:
- Accept an offer of admission at the new program degree level
- Complete the Change of Level form in iStart and submit new financial documentation.
This checklist must be completed, and a new I-20/DS-2019 must be issued no later than the end of your grace period.
Note: Enrollment in your new program must begin at the next available session start date but no more than 5 months from the end of the last program.
