Final Semester International Students

Here are some options for you as you navigate through these next steps.

Transferring to another institution

Congratulations on your upcoming graduation. It is a wonderful milestone, and we are proud of all you have accomplished here at Westchester Community College. Visit the office of Career and Transfer Services if you require guidance on connecting with different institutions.

To prepare your transfer out, please complete the SEVIS Transfer-Out Form and notify a DSO coping [email protected] of your request to transfer out to another institution.

Applying for OPT

During your period of authorization Optional Practical Training, you are continuing your F-1 status and the legal responsibilities it carries. USCIS makes the final decision on OPT approval. OPT is not guaranteed. Your employment cannot begin prior to receiving your EAD card that indicates your start date on the card. Working without prior authorization is a violation to your F1 status.

You agree with the following:

• Only work directly related to your major field of study and within the date that you have been authorized on your EAD card.
• During post-completion OPT, F-1 status is dependent upon employment (students may not accrue an aggregate of more than 90 days of unemployment [8CFR 214.2 (f)(10)(ii)(E)]).
• You are required to report the following within 10 days
• Change of name
• Change of Physical address
• Employment information, supported by a formal letter from your employer, as required by USCIS regulations
• Interruptions or termination of employment
• Visa and Passport Changes
• Travel during the OPT application process is at the student’s own risk. Your return to the US is at the discretion of U.S Customs and Board Protection (CBP).

It is advised that you travel with:

• Valid Passport
• Valid F-1Visa
• Signed OPT I-20
• Your I-20 with a travel signature (no less than 6 months old, while on OPT)
• EAD Card

Applications & Deadlines

• Application must be submitted to USCIS 30 days of DSO issuing OPT I20.
• Must apply for OPT no later than 60 days after program end date.
• USCIS has 90 days to respond to your OPT application. Suny WCC has no affiliations with USCIS to alter or advocate for the student.
• If you decide to enroll in a new degree program, please contact your DSO immediately; you will need to qualify and obtain an I20 for your new program. At this point your OPT ends once SEVIS is transferred.
• At the end of OPT authorization, you have a 60-day grace period to pursue other options.