Understanding the Grace Period for International Students and Scholars

Introduction

For international students and scholars in the United States, completing a degree or research program marks both an achievement and a turning point. While academic goals may have been met, the next steps, whether staying in the U.S., transitioning to a new visa, or preparing to leave, require careful planning. This is where the status grace period becomes crucial.

The status grace period provides a limited but essential window to make key decisions before your current visa status expires. It allows time to arrange travel plans, transfer to another institution, apply for work authorization, or explore other immigration pathways. However, failing to understand the rules and restrictions during this period can lead to unintended violations, affecting future visa applications and long-term opportunities.

In this guide, we will break down the significance of the grace period, outline essential steps to take, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and discuss how universities and legal experts can provide support. With the right approach, you can use this time effectively to transition smoothly into the next chapter of your academic or professional journey.

What is the Grace Period?

The grace period is a designated timeframe that allows international students and scholars to remain in the United States after completing their academic or research programs. This period provides an opportunity to prepare for departure, transfer to another institution, or apply for a change of visa status. 

The duration of the grace period varies depending on the visa category:​

• F-1 Visa Holders: Students on an F-1 visa have a 60-day grace period after completing their program or any authorized practical training (such as Optional Practical Training, or OPT) to leave the United States, transfer to another institution, or apply for a change of status. ​
• J-1 Visa Holders: Exchange visitors on a J-1 visa are granted a 30-day grace period following the completion of their program. This period allows them to finalize their affairs and depart the U.S. ​

During the status grace period, individuals are not permitted to engage in employment or continue their academic activities. Additionally, traveling outside the United States during this time is generally not advisable, as re-entry under the same visa status may not be permitted. ​

International students and scholars need to be aware of these timelines and restrictions to maintain compliance with U.S. immigration laws and to plan their next steps accordingly.

Next, we are going to look at the measures that one needs to take during the grace period. 

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Active Measures During The Grace Period

During the grace period following the completion of their academic or research programs, international students and scholars have several options to consider:​

1. Transfer to Another Institution

Students may initiate a transfer to another SEVP-certified school to continue their education. This process must be completed within the grace period to maintain lawful status. 

2. Change of Educational Level

Students can apply to progress to a higher educational level (e.g., from a bachelor's to a master's program) at the same institution. This change should be processed during the grace period to ensure continuous lawful status. ​

3. Apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)

F-1 students may apply for post-completion OPT to gain work experience in their field of study. The application must be submitted before the end of the grace period. 

4. Change of Nonimmigrant Status

Students and scholars may apply to change their nonimmigrant status (e.g., from F-1 to O-1A) if they meet the eligibility criteria. The application should be filed before the grace period expires.

5. Prepare for Departure

Individuals may use the grace period to make necessary arrangements for departing the United States. ​

It's important to note that employment is generally not permitted during the grace period unless authorized under specific programs like OPT. Additionally, departing the U.S. during the grace period typically concludes the grace period and re-entry under the same visa status may not be permitted. 

Taking proactive steps during the status grace period is crucial to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws and to facilitate a smooth transition to the next phase of your academic or professional journey.

Now that we know about the active measures to be taken during the grace period, let us look into the documentation and necessary legal guidance. 

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Documentation And Legal Guidance

​Maintaining proper documentation and seeking legal guidance during the grace period is essential for international students and scholars to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws and facilitate a smooth transition to their next endeavors.​

Key Documentation to Maintain

1. Valid Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months into the future while in the United States. An expired passport can affect your legal status and ability to travel.

2. Form I-20 or DS-2019

Keep your Form I-20 (for F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 (for J-1 visa holders) updated. If your program end date changes, request an updated form from your Designated School Official (DSO) or Responsible Officer (RO) before the current end date. 

3. Form I-94

This Arrival/Departure Record indicates your visa status and authorized period of stay. Regularly verify its accuracy and retain copies for your records.​

4. Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

If you have applied for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or other work authorizations, keep your EAD card accessible and ensure it remains valid. 

Seeking Legal Guidance

• Consult Designated School Officials (DSOs) or Responsible Officers (ROs)

These institutional representatives can provide personalized advice on maintaining status, transferring schools, or applying for work authorizations.​

• Engage with Immigration Attorneys

For complex situations, such as changing visa status or addressing potential status violations, consult a qualified immigration attorney to navigate legal requirements effectively.

In the following section, we will take a closer look at the common mistakes that one should avoid. 

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Common Pitfalls To Avoid

​Navigating the grace period after completing an academic or research program in the United States requires careful attention to avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your immigration status. 

Here are key mistakes to avoid:​

1. Overstaying the Grace Period

Remaining in the U.S. beyond the allotted grace period—60 days for F-1 visa holders and 30 days for J-1 visa holders—can lead to unlawful presence, affecting future immigration benefits. ​

2. Engaging in Unauthorized Employment

Working without proper authorization during the grace period is prohibited and can negatively impact your immigration status. ​

3. Traveling Outside the U.S. During the Grace Period

Departing the U.S. during the grace period typically concludes the grace period and re-entry under the same visa status may not be permitted. 

4. Failing to Maintain Proper Documentation

Not keeping your immigration documents up-to-date can lead to complications. Ensure your passport, Form I-20 or DS-2019, and Form I-94 are valid and accurate.

5. Missing Deadlines for Applications

Delaying applications for Optional Practical Training (OPT), school transfers, or changes of status can result in missed opportunities and potential status violations. ​

Restrictions On Travel

Domestic Travel:

• Traveling within the United States is allowed during the grace period.
• Ensure that you carry valid identification and immigration documents when traveling domestically.

International Travel and Re-entry:

• Leaving the U.S. during the grace period is considered final; re-entry under the same F-1 or J-1 status is not permitted.
• To return to the U.S., you must obtain a new visa status, such as a tourist visa (B-1/B-2), or enter under the Visa Waiver Program (if eligible).

Effect on Visa Status:

• Departing the U.S. before the grace period ends does not extend or reset the grace period.
• If you plan to apply for a new visa, you will need to do so from your home country or another location outside the U.S.

Automatic Visa Revalidation Restriction:

• Automatic visa revalidation, which allows short trips (less than 30 days) to Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands, does not apply during the grace period.
• Attempting to use this provision during the grace period may result in denial of re-entry.

Impact on Pending Applications:

• If you have applied for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or a Change of Status, leaving the U.S. before receiving approval is considered an abandonment of your application.

How Does Alma Help International Students And Scholars With Visas?

The visa process for international students and scholars can be complex, but Alma simplifies it with fast, high-quality legal services tailored to your needs.

• Fast and Reliable Processing: We offer a two-week turnaround time for document processing, ensuring your petitions move forward quickly without sacrificing quality or compliance in a deadline-driven system where timing is critical.
• Expert Legal Support: Our team of top immigration attorneys specializes in talent visas, including H-1B, O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW. With a structured and proactive approach, we help maximize approval chances.
• Personalized Guidance and Transparency: Every case is different. We provide tailored legal assistance to match your specific situation, keeping you informed at every step. Our team offers support and understanding, having firsthand experience with the immigration process.

With a 99%+ approval rate, Alma helps international students and scholars focus on their professional goals while we handle the complexities of immigration.

Conclusion

The grace period is a crucial window for international students and scholars, offering the opportunity to plan their next steps—whether it's securing a new visa or transitioning to a different status.

Understanding the rules and making informed decisions during this time can prevent legal complications and ensure a smooth transition. By staying proactive and seeking expert guidance, you can make the most of this period and align your next move with your long-term goals.

Navigate your immigration journey with confidence with Alma by your side. Our expert legal advisors provide step-by-step guidance, from evaluating your eligibility to crafting a compelling petition, ensuring you maximize your grace period effectively. 

During this critical transition, let Alma be your partner on the path to the American dream. 

Take the first step today! Schedule a free consultation with Alma to explore more about the grace period.