What to Do When You Graduate
May 20, 2014
Please note: On May 10, 2016, DHS replaced the 17-month STEM OPT extension with a new 24-month STEM OPT extension. All existing 17-month STEM OPT EADs will remain valid until the EAD expires, is terminated or revoked. For more information about the new STEM OPT rule, please visit the STEM OPT Hub.
As the spring semester winds down, you may be one of many students across the United States completing a program of study. While the accomplishment is similar, as an F or M student, your options differ from other students. It is important to understand your options and their relation to the international student process so that you consistently maintain your status.
Here are your options:
- Stay in the United States: There are three ways you can legally remain in the United States once you complete your program.
- Transfer: You can find other Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools or programs to apply to, including at higher education levels. If you are accepted, make sure you follow the correct transfer processes.
- Post-completion optional practical training (OPT): Only students who receive authorization from their designated school officials (DSOs) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may work in the United States after graduation. This is called post‑completion OPT, and it allows students to stay in the United States for a pre‑determined number of months following program completion. Students who graduate with degrees in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are eligible for an additional 17-month OPT STEM extension.
- Change your status: You can also use the Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Status,” to apply to change to another visa category with USCIS.
- Go home: If you choose not to pursue any of the options above, you must depart the United States. F students who maintained their status throughout their studies have 60 days to leave, while M students have 30 days.
For more information on your options and the entire international student process, use the Study Guide to the States.