What is the grace period after my program ends?
FAQ.
Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator at the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is the grace period after my program ends?
After your academic program ends, your immigration status does not end immediately; you get a grace period in the U.S. to prepare for your departure — 60 days for F-1 students (after your academic program or OPT ends) and 30 days for J-1 students. Note that the grace period for students entering on or after September 15th, 2026 is reduced to 30 days, under the new Loss of D/S rule. This grace period applies only if your academic program is completed — it does not apply if your program has ended for another reason, such as a withdrawal or a status violation.
How it works
F-1: 60 days after your program end date (end of academic program or OPT/STEM), if you were in the U.S. on 9/15/2026 with D/S status
F-1: 30 days after your program end date if you were admitted with a date-certain end date.
J-1: 30 days after your actual program completion date (end of academic program or training)
IMPORTANT: The end date on your I-20 or DS-2019 is an estimate and may not match the actual date you complete your program. The International Office at your school will revise the end date accordingly once your program requirements are met, so make sure to check with your DSO/ARO about your program end date so you are very clear on what yours is or will be. Knowing your end date is critical to correctly calculating your grace period.
Reference: USCIS Policy Manual; 8 CFR 214.2(j)(1)(ii)
