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Grace Periods for International Students in the U.S.

A grace period is a brief interval during which an international student can legally stay in the United States after their F-1 program end date or Optional Practical Training (OPT) end date. This period is designated to facilitate departure from the U.S. or plan next steps. International students in F-1 status are eligible for two distinct grace periods: a 60-day grace period following the completion of degree requirements or OPT, and a 15-day grace period after an authorized leave of absence is approved by ISSS.

60-Day Grace Period After Completion of Studies or OPT

Upon completing degree requirements, students are granted a 60-day grace period to prepare for their departure from the U.S. During this period, engagement in studies or employment is not permitted. Additionally, re-entering the U.S. as an F-1 student is restricted.

Students who have maintained F-1 status after a valid period of post-completion OPT or OPT STEM extension are also entitled to a 60-day grace period once their OPT authorization has concluded.

Options available during the 60-day grace period include:

  • Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) if you are eligible. OPT allows students to remain in the U.S. for an additional year with authorization to work in their major field of study. It is advisable to apply for OPT well in advance due to processing times.
  • Transfer your F-1 status to another school in the U.S.
  • Applying for a change of status to another visa status. Consult an immigration attorney if you decide to pursue this option.
  • Pursue another degree at CU Boulder.

More information about the 60-day grace period can be found on the Study in the States webpage.

15-Day Grace Period After Approval for Authorized Early Withdrawal

Students who decide to withdraw or take a leave of absence, with prior approval from ISSS, will not receive a 60-day grace period. Instead, they are granted a 15-day grace period after ISSS terminates their F-1 SEVIS record for authorized early withdrawal. This period allows students to prepare for their departure from the U.S.

No Grace Period for Failing to Maintain Status

A student who fails to maintain status will have their F-1 status terminated for a negative reason. Negative termination events do not provide a grace period in which to remain legally in the U.S. Once the F-1 SEVIS record is terminated, if a student is in the U.S. and has not already applied for a change to a different status, then the student is not legally present in the U.S.