Once you graduate, your F-1 status doesn’t end instantly. You usually have a 60-day grace period to either apply for OPT, transfer to another school, or change your status.

If you do nothing after graduation, you’ll be required to leave when your grace period ends.

Generally, F-1 students get a 60-day window after completing their program. That time can be used to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), enroll in another educational program, or switch to a different visa type. If you successfully apply for OPT, you can work legally for up to a year (or more if STEM). But if you don’t take action within those 60 days, you’ll be considered out of status and may face problems in future applications.