Degree programs should be completed within the following periods of time after first registration in the Graduate School–New Brunswick:

All students are urged to consider the educational and economic benefits of completing their programs quickly. Soon after being admitted to graduate study, each student should consult with a faculty adviser and work out a reasonable timetable for meeting the requirements. Extensions beyond the normal limits shown above (for all degrees except the master of philosophy) may be granted to students in good standing. A student requiring an extension should petition the dean of the Graduate School–New Brunswick on a form available from the Office of the Graduate School. If the petition is supported by reasons of weight, and if the faculty members in charge of the student's program certify that satisfactory progress is being made, the extension normally is granted. The burden of justifying such extensions is greater once the student is 10 years beyond first enrollment. Part-time students should consult their program concerning expected times of completion. International students whose visa requires them to "make normal progress towards the degree at all times" will want to check with the Center for International Faculty and Student Services to determine if their visa permits an extension beyond the normal maximum time limits for their program.