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Graduating

Depending on your plans after graduation, there are steps you’ll need to take if you remain in the United States or before you leave the country. 

Remember, you have a limited window of time after completing your program. F-1 students have a 60-day grace period and J-1 visa holders have a 30 day grace period. The grace period refers to a time period when you can remain in the United States before departing. 

Keep in mind that you may not depart the United States and then return again in your F-1/J-1 status during the grace period. If you depart the United States, the rest of your grace period is lost.

Possible Plans Post-Graduation

If you are planning to begin a new degree program at another U.S. university after graduation, you’ll need to let International Student Affairs know which school you will be attending as well as its SEVIS code. Refer to the Transfer from DePauw page for more information. 

Students interested in working in the United States after they graduate should refer to the Optional Practical Training page for instructions on how to navigate the application process for post-graduate work authorization in the United States. 

Keep in mind that students must apply for OPT prior to end of their grace period and their requested work authorization start date should also be within the grace period. 

Additional Pre-Departure Suggestions

  1. Ensure that your address in E-services is up-to-date and correct. Email the Registrar’s Office for instructions on updating your address.
  2. Check with your cell phone provider and make sure that your bill is paid out prior to departure.
  3. Clear all accounts. Call your credit card company to see if you can make any outstanding payments before you leave. Close your bank account or consult with your bank about maintaining a small balance if you would like to maintain an account in the United States.
  4. Clear your DePauw Payment Services account so that your diploma and transcripts can be released.
  5. Clear any other holds on your account. If you have a hold on your academic records, you will not be able to receive a transcript until the hold is cleared. To see what holds are on your account, you can refer to the Student Profile section of E-services.
  6. Order and pay for transcripts, if you need them.
  7. Make arrangements to have your diploma sent to you if you do not receive it prior to departure.
  8. If you worked on campus, update your home address in ADP so that you will receive your W-2 form. If you worked off-campus, you should also make sure that your prior employers have your most up-to-date address and email to contact you with any tax or other employment documents.