Great question! Preparing for graduation clearance and ensuring visa compliance is crucial for international students in the USA. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this important transition:

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1. Graduation Clearance

a. Academic Requirements
- Meet all degree requirements: Ensure you have completed all required credits, capstones, and thesis/dissertation (if applicable).
- Check with your department/advisor: Confirm that you meet all departmental and university graduation requirements.
- Submit necessary paperwork: Complete any graduation application forms and pay graduation fees (if required).

b. University Procedures
- Apply for graduation: Universities typically require you to apply for graduation a semester in advance.
- Attend exit interviews/orientations: Some universities hold sessions for graduating international students regarding next steps, alumni services, etc.
- Request transcripts & certificates: Order official transcripts and degree certificates for future use.

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2. Visa Compliance

a. F-1 Student Status
- Maintain full-time enrollment: Until your program end date, maintain full-time student status unless you have authorization for a reduced course load.
- Update SEVIS record: Inform your Designated School Official (DSO) of any changes (address, completion date, etc.).
- Check your I-20: The “Program End Date” on your I-20 should match your actual graduation date; if not, request an update.

b. Post-Graduation Options
- Grace period: After graduating, F-1 students have a 60-day grace period to:
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Transfer to another school/program
- Change visa status
- Prepare to depart the USA

c. Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Apply early: You can apply for OPT up to 90 days before and up to 60 days after your program end date.
- DSO recommendation required: Your DSO must recommend OPT in SEVIS and provide a new I-20.
- USCIS application: Submit Form I-765 and supporting documents to USCIS for OPT work authorization.

d. Record Keeping
- Maintain documents: Keep copies of your I-20s, EAD cards, transcripts, and other important immigration documents.
- Report employment and address: Once on OPT, you must report employment and address changes to your DSO within 10 days.

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3. Additional Tips

- Attend university workshops: Many universities offer special graduation and visa compliance workshops for international students.
- Consult your DSO: Your DSO is your primary resource for immigration matters and can guide you through the process.
- Understand options beyond OPT: If you wish to stay longer, research H-1B work visas, further studies, or other visa categories.

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Need More Guidance?

Pollster Education provides end-to-end support for students planning to study or transition abroad, including:
- Pre-departure briefings
- Visa compliance assistance
- Post-study work visa guidance

Contact us at +919324480791 or info@pollstereducation.com for personalized support!

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Summary:
Stay organized, communicate regularly with your university’s international office, and apply for OPT in a timely manner if you wish to work after graduation. This will ensure smooth graduation clearance and full visa compliance.

Let me know if you have questions about a specific university, OPT process, or future visa options!