International Students: Graduation and Program Completion

Grace Period

F-1 students can remain in the United States for 60 days after the date of completion of their studies on their I-20 (i.e. graduation).  During the 60 Day Grace Period, you can spend time traveling within the US and/or preparing for your return home. You cannot work or study.  If you leave the U.S. during your Grace Period, you forfeit the remainder of your 60 days, and cannot re-enter the U.S. to "finish" your Grace Period.  

Options After Graduation

Become a Tourist

If you would like to remain in the US as a tourist beyond the 60 days, you will need to apply for change of status to tourist during the grace period.  

Graduate School 

If you plan to go from graduating from Geneseo to getting another degree you must apply and be accepted to the graduate (or other) program and complete the relevant paperwork prior to the end of the grace period.  Once accepted to another F-1 student program, you can request a transfer of your SEVIS record from Geneseo to your new school.  

Optional Practical Training (post-completion)

You may also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) before graduation or during the 60-day grace period (see section on off-campus employment for more information about OPT).  

H-1B Visa

If changing to a different immigration status, such as H-1B, you must submit your change of status application to USCIS prior to the end of your program or OPT end date. 

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