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Degree Completion

Degree Completion

The U.S. government considers the completion of the course of study for a bachelor's, master's or doctoral program to be after the completion of all course requirements for the degree (excluding thesis or equivalent).

The last day of your degree program is considered the last day of the semester in which you completed all coursework for your degree.

Students are required to inform the international student advisor by email when they have completed all their program requirements if this is earlier than the program end date listed on the Form I-20.

F-1 visa students have a 60-day grace period after completing their study and degree program. The purpose of this 60-day grace period is to prepare to depart the U.S., apply for post-completion OPT, transfer to another degree level, or transfer to another institution.

PhD Students Completing Degree in Summer

You have three options if you will be completing your degree program during the Summer term.

OPTION 1 OPTION 2 OPTION 3

Use Summer session end date as program completion date.

Use Spring semester end date as program completion date.

Use Fall semester end date as program completion date.

Verification letter from faculty advisor required. 

Can petition for Filing Fee Status in Fall, only if needed.

Register in courses, or petition for Filing Fee Status for Fall.

Can apply for OPT 90 days before Summer session end date. Employment start date must be within 60 days following the Summer session end date.

Can apply for OPT 90 days before Spring semester end date. Employment start date must be within 60 days following the Spring semester end date.

Can apply for OPT 90 days before Fall semester end date. Employment start date must be within 60 days following the Fall semester end date.