Preparation

• Consider post-graduation plans (transferring to a new program, applying for post-completion OPT or academic training, etc…) Make note of timelines and eligibility.

• If leaving prior to your I-20/DS-2019 end date, consult with your international office and academic department / employer

• Note the move-out day deadlines and clean-up requirements

Academics

• Submit your new address and phone number 

• Follow Wildcat Central’s procedures to notify them of your plans

• Follow the procedure to file for graduation

• Request letters of reference or recommendation from faculty members (in whose courses you excelled) that may be useful for future academic or professional applications

• Update your diploma mailing address

Note: in some cases, Lucy can help arrange for you to get a hard copy of your diploma to carry with you before you leave if your departure date is at least 1.5 weeks after graduation.

International Office

• Complete the required OISVS Exit form here.

• Ensure you do not have any outstanding visa reporting requirements

• Ensure you understand any limitations to returning in the future (discuss this with Lucy)

• Submit the final STEM evaluation to Lucy (if you’ve had STEM OPT)

Financials

• Settle any financial debts and bills, or make repayment plans. Be sure to include any medical providers.

• Close out your bank account and any credit cards you do not intend to use after departure

• Continue to monitor your credit report (for those with a Social Security number) for identity theft

Computer Systems/access

• Be aware when your access to campus systems and network will conclude. This document may help.

• Download any documents you wish to preserve from your Google drive, Adobe platforms or other ACU-based software. Clear other files off the network.

• Forward your ACU email to your personal email if you will no longer check it.

• Switch any two-factor authentication to alternate non-ACU sources

Employment

• Be aware of your final date if legal work authorization (I-20 end date or graduation date for on-campus employment, EAD end date, etc…)

• Submit a resignation letter and complete any employer exit interviews

• Update your resume with education, experience and skills gained.

• Update address for tax filing paperwork and mark mid-March in the next calendar year to remember to gather documents and file U.S. taxes by April 15th

• Determine how to receive your last paycheck

• Return organization assets (ie: keycard, technology, office equipment, borrowed items)

Health

• Ensure each health care provider has your new address so you will receive any outstanding bills (if not paid)

• If necessary, purchase a health insurance policy to cover time before your exit

• Get copies of prescriptions and medical records from providers you have seen in the U.S.

• If necessary, consult with your healthcare providers in the U.S. on transitioning to a new provider in your next destination

Preparing Travel

• Cancel housing contract, utilities, phone, internet, bank account, cable, etc…

• Change of mailing address:

• Visit a U.S. post office to request a change of address to an international address

• Complete Change of Address (COA) form PS Form 3575 that is filed for a domestic move at your local post office and complete identity proofing BEFORE leaving the United States

• Arrange for transportation to the next destination. Check if you will need to apply for a transit visa for any countries you are transitioning through.

• Sell or donate vehicles, furniture and belongings

• Pack your belongings and review the Don’t Pack a Pest resources to learn about risks associated with carrying certain types of food, plants, or other agricultural items.

Staying Connected

• Find ways to stay connected through ACU’s alumni association

• Join the OISVS LinkedIn group and keep in touch

• Say your goodbyes and show appreciation to friends, colleagues, peers, Bible study and church groups, mentors, etc… Get their contact information and social media handles to stay connected after you leave