When an F-1 student is getting ready to graduate, he or she generally has the following options:

• Transfer to another school (Click here for more information on Transferring)

• Apply for post completion Optional Practical Training. IMPORTANT! Your application for post-completion of studies Optional Practical Training must be filed and received by USCIS BEFORE the last day of classes of your graduating semester.  For more information click here.

• Leave the United States. If you do not plan on transferring to a new school or engaging in post completion Optional Practical Training, you will not be able to maintain legal F-1 status after you graduate from Nassau Community College. When you graduate, you have 60 days from the last day of classes to inform us of your transfer to a new school. If you do not inform us that you wish to have your record transferred out, it will automatically be completed in the SEVIS system. If you decide to remain in the United States and attend another institution after this point, you will need to file for a Reinstatement to F-1 status.  Call the ISA Office at 516-572-7053 for more information.