The SEVIS I-20 is a legal document and must reflect accurate information. Changes in any of the categories listed below should be reported to ISSS and a new I-20 should be requested:
Do not carry your original I–20 or passport with you in the Twin Cities area. Carry photo copies instead. Originals are required when traveling outside of the Twin Cities and the surrounding suburbs.
The I-20 reflects an expected completion date in item 5. Students are allowed to pursue full-time studies toward the completion of the program reflected on their I-20 up to that date.
60-Day Grace Period: DHS regulations automatically provide a 60-day grace period for F-1 students who complete a program of study. The 60-day grace period should be calculated from the date of completion. Students authorized post-completion Optional Practical Training have a 60-day grace period beginning from the date the Optional Practical Training expires. Students who do not complete a program of study are not eligible for a 60-day grace period.
15-Day Grace Period: Students who elect to discontinue their program of study are not eligible for a 60-day grace period. Prior approval at ISSS is required before a student cancels classes or discontinues the program at the end of a term. Based on obtaining the prior approval from ISSS, a student has a 15-day grace period in which to depart the U.S. Students are strongly encouraged to obtain the 15-day grace period approval to avoid problems in reentering the United States.