We recommend caution about beginning any kind of professional formal training outside of the work place.

An experienced immigration attorney is a great resource for questions such as this that fall into the regulatory gray area.

Grace Period

Students who do not exceed 90/150 days of unemployment and report employment to the DSO as required are automatically granted a 60-day grace period after the end date listed on the EAD (Employment Authorization Document). Within this 60-day grace period, you have the following options:

• Depart the U.S. Once you leave the U.S. (including trips to Canada and Mexico) after completing your studies and OPT period, you are not eligible to reenter with your current I-20. The grace period is meant for travel within the states and preparation to depart the U.S.
• Request a new I-20 if you will continue at the KSU in a new degree program.
• Transfer your SEVIS record to a new school.
• Apply to change status to another visa category.

Travel Signature and Emergency Travel

Travel Signature

Make sure you have a valid travel signature from your DSO prior to returning to the U.S. after international travel!

• You must have a valid travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 to return to the U.S. after travel abroad.
• Each signature is valid for one year. (F-1 students on OPT: the travel signature is valid for SIX months).
• A travel signature is issued by your DSO to confirm you are maintaining your F-1 or J-1 student status.