Completion of Studies
Completion of Studies occurs when you finish your complete your program of studies or your I-20 expires, whichever is sooner. Students on F-1 visa have a 60 day grace period following completion of studies to prepare for departure or prepare for transfer. After completing your studies you have the following options:
- Depart the U.S.
- Students on F-1 visa have up to 60 days to leave
- Inform International Services of your departure so that your SEVIS record can be completed in a timely manner
- Change to another degree level at Montclair State University
- Students on F-1 visa have up to 60 days to change their level of studies
- See Change of Degree Level for further information
- Note: Students must get accepted to the new degree level and get an I-20 for that program within 60 days of completion of studies
- Transfer to another school to begin a new program
- Students on F-1 visa have up to 60 days to request to transfer to a new school
- See School Transfer for further information
- Employment
- Students on F-1 student visa can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Students must apply for OPT before completing their studies (in their final semester)
- See Employment Options - Optional Practical Training (OPT) for furhter information
- Change to another nonimmigrant visa status
- Students on F-1 student visa must apply for a change of status within 60 days of completing their studies
- See Change of Status for further information