Completion of Studies & Graduation

Your current F-1 status is valid for the duration of your current degree program. However, please remember that when your degree program and studies are completed, the validity of your I-20 also ends.

All F-1 students have the benefit of a 60-day grace period following the completion of a degree program. Your program completion date will depend on the exact semester and term that you finish your degree. You can check the graduation or diploma date for your final semester on the FSU Registrar’s website: http://registrar.fsu.edu.

You may use this 60-day period to choose any of the options listed below. Please note that the choices require you to inform the IC of your plans by completing the necessary processes and forms.

  1. Apply for or begin your Optional Practical Training (OPT) employment. Please see the information on OPT in the Employment section. FORMS: OPT Application Packet.

  2. Be readmitted to FSU for a new degree program. You must complete the application and Change of Level process and receive a new I-20 for your new degree program BEFORE the end of your 60-day grace period. In order to receive a new I-20, you must be admitted to a new degree program, and provide proof of funding for your new degree or level. You must be issued this new I-20 no later than 60 days after your Program Completion Date OR I-20 expiration, whichever comes first. This is because your F-1 SEVIS record will automatically complete 60 days after your Program Completion Date, if no action is take to continue the record. FORM: Please contact Leigh Ann Osborne ( IC Student Services Coordinator) by email or phone for information on the necessary readmission/funding forms and procedures. Email: losborne@admin.fsu.edu Phone: 645-1424.

  3. Transfer to another U.S. school. You must arrange for the release of your SEVIS record to your new school before the end of your 60-day grace period. Please see section on SEVIS Transfers. FORM: SEVIS Transfer-Out Form.

  4. Apply for a Change of Status to another immigration status. If you will be applying for a change of your immigration status, please be sure to make an appointment with your F-1 advisor for important information regarding the timing of the change of status application and the ending of your F-1 status. Be aware- If you do not request an extension, apply for OPT, transfer to another school, or continue with another degree program at FSU, your F-1 record will automatically complete 60 days after your Program Completion Date. Note: Applications for change of status during the grace period carry a high risk of denial. It is recommended that you apply before your program completion or I-20 expiration. FORM: Ending Your F-1 Record Form.

  5. Exit the United States. If you do not choose any of the other options, your F-1 status will end 60 days after your program completion. You must exit the US before the end of your 60-day grace period. FORM: Ending Your F-1 Record Form.