F-1 Grace Period

As an F-1 student, you are provided a 60-day grace period at the end of your program.

This means you may remain in the United States for up to 60 days after the program end date listed on your Form I-20.

Important: The end date on your I-20 will be shortened if you end your studies early or complete your academic program prior to the original end date on your Form I-20.

Purpose of the Grace Period

The grace period is intended to give you time to:

• Prepare for your departure from the United States
• Travel within the United States after completing your program
• Prepare for another immigration option, if eligible

You are not permitted to continue your academic program during this time.

Employment and Activities During the Grace Period

During the 60-day grace period:

• You may not work on-campus or off-campus unless you have separate employment authorization
• Your F-1 program is considered complete when all degree requirements are satisfied
• You may remain in the U.S. in F-1 status during the grace period

Travel During the Grace Period

If you choose to travel within the United States during your grace period, you may do so.

However:

• If you leave the United States during the grace period, you cannot re-enter using your F-1 visa and Form I-20
• Your F-1 status and grace period will end once you depart the U.S.

Plan your travel carefully before leaving the country.

Possible Options During the Grace Period

During your 60-day grace period, you may be eligible to:

• Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), if eligible
• Transfer your SEVIS record to another U.S. school
• Begin a new academic program
• Apply for a change of immigration status
• Prepare to depart the United States

Early Program Completion

If you end your academic program early, you must notify VIS by completing the Ending My F-1 Status form in accessVIS. Upon submission:

• Your SEVIS record will be ended for Authorized Early Withdrawal (AEW)
• This action should not negatively affect your ability to return in a future semester
• You will have a 15-day grace period to leave the United States

Violation of F-1 Status

If your SEVIS record is terminated for a status violation, you may be required to depart the United States immediately. You may also lose eligibility for benefits such as on-campus employment, CPT/OPT eligibility, previous off-campus employment authorization, and travel signatures for re-entry.

If you are unable or choose not to depart the United States after a violation of F-1 status, VIS strongly recommends that you discuss your options for regaining F-1 status or consult with a qualified immigration attorney about your immigration options.