Congratulations on graduating soon! | ISSC

- December 13, 2023

Congratulations class of 2023!

The International Students and Scholars Center would like to remind you of a few things as you plan your next steps after graduation.

As an F-1 student, you are given a 60-day grace period after your degree completion date. During your grace period, you can choose to do one of the following:

While you are making your decision, remember that if you have an on-campus job, you must stop working by your program completion date. Work performed after your program completion date would be unlawful.

Apply for Optional Practical Training
If you want to work in the U.S., you must file your I-765 (OPT) application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) no later than 60 days after your degree completion date. Before applying for OPT with USCIS, you must request an OPT recommended I-20 from the ISSC.

As a reminder, your ASU student health insurance will end on Dec. 31. It is strongly recommended that you continue health insurance coverage after this time through your employer or a private insurer.

Start a new program at ASU
If you are admitted to a new program at ASU, you must request an I-20 from the ISSC reflecting your new ASU degree program.

Transfer to a new institution
If you are admitted to a new institution, you must contact the ISSC to begin the process of transferring your SEVIS record.

Apply for a change of status
If you have applied to change your immigration status , you should contact the ISSC immediately after receiving a Notice of Action from USCIS to get your record updated in SEVIS.

Leave the U.S.
If you have completed your degree and do not choose one of the options above, you must depart the U.S. within the 60-day grace period following your completion date. If you decide to leave the U.S., please complete the Reporting Student Exit From ASU eForm so we can update your SEVIS record.

On a final note, you are advised to keep your immigration documents indefinitely, including all of your I-20s. The ISSC keeps student files only for a limited period of time and will not be able to assist with future requests for documents or verification of student status after these files have been destroyed.

Have questions? Contact the ISSC.