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Office for Global Engagement International Services Office
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Grace Periods and Departure

Please complete your departure form to notify us of your plans in advance. Contact an ISO advisor with any questions or to discuss your departure plans further.

Grace periods

Once your program or activity ends, your ability to remain in the country after your completion date will depend on your grace period.

Students: F-1 and J-1 visa categories

Students who have maintained valid F-1 or J-1 status are eligible for a grace period after finishing their program. During this time, you may:

You may not use an expired I-20 or DS-2019 to re-enter the United States during your grace period.

If you’re leaving your program prior to completion, the grace period will be shortened or eliminated. In that case, you should leave the country or make other arrangements quickly. For more information about grace periods for students, visit Study in the States.

F-1 grace period lengths

  • Completion of program: 60 days
  • Authorized withdrawal: 15 days
  • Unauthorized withdrawal: None

J-1 grace period lengths

  • Completion of program: 30 days
  • Authorized withdrawal: None
  • Unauthorized withdrawal: None

J-1 Scholars and Employees

J-1 scholars and employees who have maintained valid J-1 status are eligible for a 30-day grace period after successfully finishing their program. If a program is terminated early, the grace period will be invalid.

During this time, you may travel within the United States and make plans to return home.

You may not:

  • Work or Study – employment or academic activities are not authorized during the grace period. 
  • Extend Your J-1 Program – the 30-day period is for departure, not for extending your J-1 program of study or research. 
  • Transfer Status – you cannot transfer your J-1 status to another sponsor during this time. 
  • Re-enter the U.S. as a J-1 Scholar – if you leave the U.S. and then attempt to re-enter with a J-1 visa, your status will expire. 

There are no grace periods for other immigration categories, including H-1B and other temporary workers.

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