On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule eliminating Duration of Status for certain nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Please visit our Duration of Status Rule Change webpage for additional information and updates.
News
Congratulations, graduates!
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.
Employment After Graduation
- 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.
Next Steps
Applying for OPT
- 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.
Starting a New Program at ASU
- If admitted to a new program at ASU, request an updated I-20 from the ISSC.
Transferring to Another Institution
- If admitted to another institution, request a SEVIS record transfer from the ISSC.
Applied for a Change of Status
- 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.
Leaving the U.S.
- 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.
Important Reminder
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.