News

As an F-1 student, you have a 60-day grace period after your degree program completion date. During this time, you may:

• Apply for Optional Practical Training.
• Start a new degree program at ASU.
• Transfer to a new institution.
• Apply for a change in immigration status.
• Leave the U.S.
   

• On-campus employment ends on your degree program completion date.
  • Undergraduate students cannot work after May 11, 2026.
  • Most graduate students also cannot work after May 11, 2026, but should verify their degree program completion date with their academic advisor.
• RA/TA/GSA offer letters may extend beyond this date, but employment must stop by the degree program completion date. Receiving a paycheck afterward does not mean work is allowed. Working beyond this date is unlawful and may result in termination of your F-1 status.
   

• To work in the U.S. after graduation, submit your I-765 (OPT) application to USCIS within 60 days of your degree completion date. Before applying, request an OPT-recommended I-20 from the ISSC. Please remember the ISSC processing time is up to 7-business days. 
   

• If admitted to a new program at ASU, request an updated I-20 from the ISSC.
   

• If admitted to another institution, request a SEVIS record transfer from the ISSC.
   

• If you applied for a immigration status change, please submit a copy of your I-797 Approval Notice to the Closing of F-1 SEVIS Record eForm so we can update your SEVIS record.
   

• If you do not choose one of the options above, you must depart the U.S. within 60 days of your degree completion. Please submit the Closing of F-1 SEVIS Record eForm so we can update your SEVIS record.
   

Keep all immigration documents indefinitely, including your I-20s. The ISSC only retains student files for a limited time and cannot provide documents or student status verification once records are destroyed.