After completing your program, you are granted a 60-day grace period.
During this time, you may:
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (you may apply up to 90 days before your I-20 end date). Please check our Student Employment page for further information.
- Transfer to another school
- Begin a new academic program
- Change your visa status
- Depart the United States
If you plan to transfer:
- Fill out the Transfer-Out form
- Obtain a new I-20 from your new school
- Please note that you must re-enter on the new school's initial I-20 if you plan to travel outside the U.S.
If you plan to begin a new program:
- Fill out the I-20 Extension Form with your new academic advisor (updated financial proof will be required)
Please note that, effective September 15, 2026, students who are transferring, starting a new program, or extending their current program must also update the admission date on their Form I-94 record. Students may do so by filing Form I-539 with USCIS while in the United States or by departing and re-entering the U.S. to receive a new admission date.
Remaining in the U.S. beyond your grace period without proper authorization will result in the accrual of unlawful presence.