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University of Florida

End of OPT or STEM OPT

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On July 17, 2026, DHS published a final rule establishing a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure for F nonimmigrant academic students. This rule is expected to be effective on September 15, 2026, and will impact several aspects of the F-visa program regulations. Accordingly, updates to our website content are in progress.

Situation

The student is currently in F-1 status on OPT or STEM OPT and is nearing the completion of OPT/STEM OPT, or is taking another action to end OPT.

The principal options for a student transitioning out of OPT/STEM OPT are:

For all the above options, the action must be completed within the allowed 60-day grace period following OPT or STEM OPT completion. The student can also proceed with any of the actions above at any time during their OPT or STEM OPT period.

For detailed information, please refer to the OPT & STEM OPT Reporting Requirements page, and navigate to the section about Ending OPT.