Once you have successfully completed your studies, what comes next?
If you are an F-1 student and have maintained your immigration status, you are eligible for a 60-day grace period in which you can remain in the U.S. If you are a J-1 student and have maintained your immigration status, you are eligible for a 30-day grace period in which you may remain in the U.S. Travel and re-entry to the U.S. as an F-1 or J-1 student is not permitted during this time.
You may also use the grace period to transfer your SEVIS record to another U.S. school or to change your immigration status.
If you wish to work after you complete your studies, you must apply for work authorization BEFORE your completion date. You may not work on campus after completing your
studies, unless the position meets the requirements of Optional Practical Training or J-1 Academic Training. F-1 students should read information about post-completion Optional Practical Training, and J-1 students should read the information about Academic Training to learn more about employment after graduation.