Options after Graduation

If you are completing your academic program, you have several options after graduation. You must finalize one of these options before the end of your 60-day grace period:

  • Leave the U.S. no later than 60 days after the program completion date. You may not study or work during this period.
  • Transfer to another institution in F-1 status no later than 60 days after program completion. The transfer process must be completed during the 60 days, which includes providing us with a copy of your new acceptance letter, as well as the transfer out form.
  • Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Optional Practical Training is one year of work authorization in your field of study. It is important to attend the OPT workshop and begin the application process approximately 3 to 4 months prior to graduation. Please refer to the OPT section for more information.
  • Start a new academic program at UT Health San Antonio. Make sure to meet with your International Services Representative to discuss the process of updating your I-20 to reflect the new educational level.

OIS partners with an immigration attorney each Spring semester to offer you a free workshop on Options for International Students after OPT to discuss pathways to H-1B and permanent residency, as well as other options for working in the U.S.