How long can I stay in the U.S. after I finish my program?
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
How long can I stay in the U.S. after I finish my program?
After the program end date on your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1), you get a grace period — 60 days for F-1 students and 30 days for J-1 students.
What you can do during the grace period
Prepare to depart the U.S.
Apply for post-completion OPT (F-1)
Note: J-1 students must apply for Academic Training prior to their program end date. The position must begin within 30 days of the program end date.
Transfer to another SEVP-certified school or begin a new program
Apply to change to another nonimmigrant status or permanent residence
Important
You cannot work (paid or unpaid) during the grace period without approved authorization (like OPT or AT).
If you depart the U.S. during the grace period, you cannot re-enter in F-1/J-1 status.
If you need more time for graduation requirements, request an I-20/DS-2019 extension before your program end date.
A proposed federal rule may affect this — see the site's Recent Updates.
