On This Page:
Travel After Completion of Studies
F-1 students: If you do not apply for OPT, you have a 60-day grace period after the last day of your final quarter. Once you leave the U.S. (including short trips to Canada and Mexico) after completing your studies you cannot reenter the U.S. with your current I-20 unless you have already applied for OPT and intend to travel with a pending application. The grace period is for travel within the U.S. and preparation for departure.
J-1 students: If you do not apply for Academic Training, you have a 30-day grace period after the last day of your final quarter. Once you leave the U.S. (including short trips to Canada and Mexico) after completing your studies you cannot reenter the U.S. with your current DS-2019. The grace period is meant for travel within the U.S. and preparation for departure.
Travel and OPT
Before graduation, if your post-completion OPT application is pending, you may travel and reenter the U.S.
After graduation, if your post-completion OPT has been approved and your EAD issued, we recommend you have proof of employment with you to re-enter. You should carry the following documents with you:
- I-20 signed for travel by an international student adviser within the last 6 months
- EAD card
- Valid passport
- Unexpired F-1 visa (unless returning from a short trip to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean)
- Evidence of employment in your field of study (letter of employment, written job offer)