Preparing for Graduation as an International Student
As you complete your degree at Minnesota State University Moorhead, it’s important to plan for your next steps. International students have several options after graduation, including continuing their education, applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT), SEVIS transfers, changing immigration status, or preparing to depart the United States.
Use the information on this page to help you understand your options and important immigration considerations as you approach graduation.
Before You Graduate: Quick Checklist
As you prepare to complete your degree, review these important steps:
- Decide your next step after graduation (OPT, another degree, change of status, or departure)
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) if you plan to work in the U.S.
- Request a SEVIS transfer if you will attend another school
- Review your program end date on your Form I-20
- Understand your grace period
- Review your health insurance coverage after graduation
Options After Graduation
Students graduating after May 2027 who plan to remain in the United States will need to apply to USCIS for an extension. This page will be updated once USCIS clarifies how this process will work.
Continue Your Education
You may choose to continue your studies after completing your current degree.
Continue at Minnesota State Moorhead
If you plan to pursue another degree at Minnesota State Moorhead, contact Admissions for Graduate Studies for next steps.
Attend another institution
If you will pursue a degree at another school, you must transfer your SEVIS record to your new institution. To request a transfer, complete the Transfer Out Form.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to gain work experience in their field of study after completing their degree.
Students may apply for OPT up to 90 days before their program end date and no later than 30 days after their program end date.
Students who entered the US before September 15, 2026 and graduate before May 15, 2026 will have a 60-day grace period.
Visit the OPT page for eligibility requirements, timelines, and application instructions.
Change of Status
Students who are interested in changing or adjusting their immigration status should consult with an immigration attorney to learn about available options.
Departing the United States
Students who do not plan to continue their studies or apply for OPT must prepare to depart the United States within the allowed grace period after completing their program.
Important Immigration Information
Program End Date
Your program end date is listed on your Form I-20. This date determines when your grace period begins and affects eligibility for Optional Practical Training.
Your program end date may be different from your graduation ceremony date or the end of the semester.
If you are unsure about your program end date, contact International Student Services.
Grace Period
F-1 students Students who entered the US before September 15, 2026 and graduate before May 15 have a 60-day grace period after their program end date. Students who graduate in Summer 2027 and after will have a 30-day grace period.
During this time, students may:
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Transfer their SEVIS record to another school
- Change their immigration status
- Prepare to depart the United States
Students may travel within the United States during this time. However, if you leave the U.S. during your grace period, you cannot reenter using your F-1 status.
Additional Information
Health Insurance
Student health insurance coverage depends on your graduation term:
- Spring graduates: Coverage remains active through the summer semester
- Fall graduates: Coverage ends at the end of the fall semester
Invitation Letters for Family Visits
U.S. Embassies and Consulates do not require invitation letters for family members of F-1 or J-1 students applying for visitor visas. Because of this, the university cannot issue official invitation letters.
As a courtesy, the university provides a sample invitation letter template for students who wish to invite immediate family members (such as parents, grandparents, or siblings) to visit the United States.
If you choose to write an invitation letter, you should include a copy of your most recent Form I-20.