The F-1 60-day grace period allows eligible international students to remain in the U.S. temporarily after completing their degree, Optional Practical Training (OPT), or STEM OPT. This period is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their future immigration status and academic pursuits.
Key Details:
- What you can do: Stay in the U.S. temporarily, transfer your SEVIS record, start a new academic program, apply for a change of status, or apply for OPT if eligible.
- What you can’t do: Work without authorization, start a new job, continue OPT after EAD expiry, re-enter the U.S. on the same completed I-20, or ignore important deadlines.
- Important reminders: Review your I-20 dates, EAD expiration date, transfer deadlines, and OPT/STEM OPT timelines before the end of the 60-day period.
Understanding these rules is essential to avoid potential mistakes that could impact your immigration status.