Information for Graduating International Students

Contact the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) with any questions.

Graduation Date

International students in F-1 status: If you will not be graduating by your expected graduation date, make sure your immigration Form I-20 is valid at least until your new graduation date. If not, you must request an extension from the ISSO. If you intend to apply for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permission, please review the ISSO webpage for tips on the timing and steps required for your application.

International students in J-1 status: If you will not be graduating by your expected graduation date, make sure your immigration Form DS-2019 is valid at least until your new graduation date. If not, you must request an extension from the ISSO. If you intend to apply for post-completion Academic Training (AT) work permission, you must submit an application prior to your program completion date. See the ISSO webpage for timing and steps required to apply.

You must submit your extension request to the ISSO at least a month in advance of the I-20/DS-2019 end date to ensure you will receive the extension before your current document expires.

Students who graduate in September must complete summer semester verification at the ISSO.

Visa for Visiting Family

If family members need to obtain a visitor visa to enter the U.S., students may request an invitation letter from the ISSO assist in the visa application process.