Well, well, it is really a trouble that my I-20 is out dated.
It was discovered when I was requesting a school transfer on 9/3/2004, from UC Berkeley to Golden Gate University.
The school advisor who was transferring my SEVIS record told me that it was deactivated on 9/2/2004, the day before I dropped in, according to his system.
That date sure is exactly the date on my I-20 as issued. Unfortunately, this is the first time that the date finally means something to me.
We are all familiar with the 60 days rule -- I-20 is valid 60 days after the last day of school. In my case, my proposed school duration was to end on 7/2/2004, so came 9/2/2004.
I enrolled in more courses full time after 7/2. And my last day of school is actually 8/13. I knew I could need more time before I would do the transfer.
The problem: I did not specifically ask for an I-20 extension. I did not realize the date issue on my I-20, I did not know I needed to ask an extension while I was in school. I was not assuming an automatic extension. I was just oblivious.
I am out of luck.
Recommendations from both UCB and GGU school official:
Re-entry with a new I-20 or apply for re-instate of status while staying in US.
Pros and cons?
Any other options?
I am submitting an application for re-instate of status soon if I could not get more advices other than those from the school officials.
Thanks
Swan