The International Students and Scholars Center would like to extend a huge congratulations to all our international student graduates for the accomplishments you have achieved during your time with us.
As an F-1 student, you are given a 60-day grace period following your degree completion date. During this period, you have the option to:
- Apply for Optional Practical Training
- Start a new degree program at ASU
- Transfer to a new institution
- Apply for a change in visa status
- Leave the U.S.
Please be aware that on-campus employment cannot continue after your degree completion date. Undergraduate students cannot work after May 6, 2024. While most graduate students also cannot work after May 6, 2024, they can verify their degree completion date with their academic advisor.
Please note: RA/TA/GSA offer letter end dates may extend beyond the degree completion date. While students may receive a paycheck after the degree completion date, all employment must stop by that date. Work performed after the degree completion date would be unlawful and grounds for the termination of your F-1 immigration status.
Apply for Optional Practical Training
If you want to work in the U.S., you must file your I-765 (OPT) application to 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.
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 the new degree program.
Transfer to a new institution
If you are admitted to a new institution, you must request to have your SEVIS record transferred.
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 the 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 will have a 60-day grace period to depart the U.S. Upon leaving the U.S., please complete the Reporting Student Exit from ASU eForm so we can update your SEVIS record.
You are advised to keep your immigration documents indefinitely, including all of your I-20s. The ISSC keeps student files for only a limited period of time and will not be able to assist with requests for documents or verification of student status after these files have been destroyed.
Have questions? Contact the ISSC.
issc@asu.edu
480-727-4776
Mondays 9-11 a.m.
Tuesdays 1-3 p.m.
Thursdays 9-11 a.m.
Fridays 1-3 p.m.
(Arizona Time)
Mondays 1-3 p.m.
Tuesdays 9-11 a.m.
Thursdays 1-3 p.m.
Fridays 9-11 a.m.
(Arizona Time)