Understanding the F-1 Visa Grace Period and Extension Options

What is the F-1 Visa Grace Period?

The F-1 visa grace period is the time granted to international students to legally remain in the U.S. after completing their academic program or Optional Practical Training (OPT). This period allows students to prepare for departure, transfer to another program, or change their immigration status.

Standard Grace Periods for F-1 Visa Holders:

• 60-Day Grace Period: Granted after completing an academic program or post-completion OPT. During this period, students may:

  • Prepare for departure from the U.S.

  • Apply for a change of status to another visa category.

  • Transfer to another SEVP-certified institution. 

• 15-Day Grace Period: Applicable if a student withdraws from their program with prior authorization from their Designated School Official (DSO).

   

• No Grace Period: If a student violates their status (e.g., unauthorized withdrawal, dropping below full-time enrollment without approval), they must depart the U.S. immediately.

   

Grace Period Extensions: What Are the Options?

While the grace period itself cannot be extended, students have several options to legally remain in the U.S. beyond this period:

1. Enroll in Another Academic Program

Students can apply for a new academic program at the same or another SEVP-certified institution. A new Form I-20 will be issued, and the student’s SEVIS record will be updated accordingly.

2. Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Eligible students can apply for post-completion OPT, allowing them to work in their field of study for up to 12 months. Applications must be submitted before the program completion date.

3. Apply for a STEM OPT Extension

Students with a qualifying STEM degree may apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT. To be eligible, students must:

• Have earned a degree in a STEM field from an accredited, SEVP-certified institution.

• Be employed by an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program.

• Submit Form I-765 up to 90 days before their current OPT expires and within 60 days of the DSO’s recommendation in SEVIS.

4. Apply for a Change of Status (COS) to Another Visa

Students may apply to change their status to another visa category, such as:

• H-1B (Work Visa): For employment in specialty occupations.

• B-2 (Tourist Visa): For temporary visits.

• F-2 (Dependent Visa): If the student becomes a dependent of another F-1 visa holder.

Applications for change of status should be filed before the end of the grace period.

5. Utilize the H-1B Cap-Gap Extension

As of January 17, 2025, the H-1B cap-gap extension has been extended. Eligible F-1 students with a timely filed H-1B petition may now receive an automatic extension of their F-1 status and work authorization until April 1 of the fiscal year, providing additional time beyond the previous October 1 cutoff. 

6. Travel and Re-Enter with a New F-1 Visa

Students may choose to depart the U.S. and apply for a new F-1 visa to enroll in a new academic program. Upon re-entry, they will receive a new SEVIS record and Form I-20. Note that time accrued toward OPT eligibility resets with the new program.

What Happens If You Overstay the Grace Period?

Overstaying the grace period results in unlawful presence, which can have serious consequences, including:

• Ineligibility for future U.S. visas.

• Potential bans from re-entering the U.S.

• Deportation proceedings.

It’s crucial to take action before the grace period ends to maintain legal status.

Disclaimer: This information is subject to change based on U.S. immigration policies. Always consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) or an immigration attorney for personalized advice.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. How long is the grace period for F-1 visa holders after graduation?
   The standard grace period is 60 days after completing a program or OPT.

    

2. Can I stay in the U.S. after my 60-day grace period?
   No, unless you have changed your status, enrolled in another program, or applied for OPT before the grace period ends.

    

3. What happens if I overstay my F-1 grace period?
   Overstaying can lead to visa cancellation, unlawful presence, and potential deportation.

    

4. Can I apply for OPT during my grace period?
   No, OPT applications must be submitted before the program completion date.

    

5. Can I transfer to another school during my grace period?
   Yes, but you must request a SEVIS transfer before the 60-day period expires.

    

6. What is the H-1B Cap-Gap Extension?
   It allows F-1 students with a pending H-1B petition to continue working past their OPT expiration, now extended until April 1 of the fiscal year.

    

7. Can I travel outside the U.S. during my F-1 grace period?
   Yes, but you cannot re-enter on an expired visa unless you obtain a new F-1 or other valid visa.

    

8. Can we extend the F-1 grace period?
   No official extensions exist, but students can change their status, apply for OPT, or enroll in a new program.

    

9. What should I do before my grace period ends?
   Plan to change status, leave the U.S., or enroll in a new program before your 60-day period expires.

    

10. Does the F-1 grace period apply to students who withdraw early?
    If students withdraw with DSO approval, they get a 15-day grace period; otherwise, there is no grace period.