Grace Periods

After program completion, your immigration classification may grant a “grace period” — extra time to prepare for your next steps, such as transferring schools, changing status, starting a new appointment, or leaving the U.S.

It is important to know if your classification includes a grace period and be aware of when your legal status ends.

F-1 Students

  • Grace period: 60 days starting the day you complete your program (regardless of I-20 expiration).
  • If you use OPT, the 60-day grace starts after OPT end date.
  • Once you leave the U.S. during this period, you cannot re-enter on the completed program’s I-20.
  • Also applies to F-2 dependents.
  • No 60-day grace period is available if you do not complete your program.
    • With prior ISSO authorization for withdrawal/leave: 15-day grace starting when your enrollment ends.
    • Without authorization/Upon violation: no grace, immediate departure required.

J-1 Students

  • Grace period: 30 days starting on the last day of your study or program activity at BU (regardless of DS-2019 end date).
  • If using Academic Training (AT), grace begins after AT end date.
  • Also applies to J-2 dependents.
  • No 30-day grace period is available if you do not complete your program:
    • With prior ISSO approval: 15-day grace starting when your enrollment ends.
    • Without approval: no grace, immediate departure required.

Activities Allowed During Grace Period

  • Travel within the U.S.
  • Prepare to depart the U.S. (e.g., sell belongings)
  • Transfer SEVIS record to another school (if eligible)
  • Apply for OPT (F-1) or Academic Training (J-1) — ideally before program completion
  • Apply to change immigration status (if eligible)

Activities NOT Allowed During Grace Period

  • Continue studies, research, or employment at BU or elsewhere
  • On-campus or off-campus work without authorization
  • Apply for program extension
  • Depart the U.S. with intent to re-enter on completed F-1 or J-1 status