• Consider post-graduation plans (transferring to a new program, applying for post-completion optional practical training or academic training, etc.). Make note of timelines and eligibility.
• If you have dependents, consider their needs (e.g., a J-2 with an EAD may need to give notice; F-2 or J-2 children may need to be withdrawn from schools, etc.)
• If leaving prior to your I-20/DS-2019 end date, consult with your international office and academic department/employer.

• Inform academic department of your departure date and complete any departure forms.
• Follow your department’s procedures to file for graduation.
• Request letters of reference or recommendation from faculty members that may be useful for future academic or professional applications.
• Order final transcripts from the Registrar’s office. 
• If you have dependents attending school, request final transcripts from those schools.
• Update mailing address for diploma.
• Follow process to apply for and attend commencement ceremony.
• Update your student account with your personal email address and future mailing address.

If you are a sponsored student/scholar, complete any items required by your sponsor (e.g., transcript requests, proof of participation, evaluations, etc.).

• Settle any financial debts and bills, and/or make repayment plans. 
• Submit any requests for final financial reimbursements.
• 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. 

• Confirm when access to campus systems and network will conclude.
• Update accounts, records, and other documents with personal email for when university email access expires.
• Clear files off your campus network drive or any borrowed technology.
• Reassign access or ownership to shared work documents (Google Docs, Box, Qualtrics Surveys).
• Switch any two-factor authentication (2FA) to new phone numbers.

• Complete required departure forms.
• Ensure you do not have any outstanding visa reporting requirements.
• Ensure you understand any limitations to returning in the future.
• Confirm with the international office that you are leaving within the allowable grace period.
• If you are a sponsored student/scholar, complete any necessary departure processes with your sponsor.

• Be aware of your final date of legal work authorization (I-20/DS_2019 end date, EAD, etc.).
• Submit resignation letter and complete any employer exit interviews.
• Update CV or resume with education, experience, and skills gained.
• Update address for tax filing paperwork and mark mid-April in the next calendar year to remember to file U.S. taxes.
• Determine how to receive your last paycheck.
• Clarify entitlements/benefits (pension plans, retirement savings, and other benefits).
• Contact Export Control for questions related to international shipping or determining if a license is required (e.g. shipping research samples back to home country).
• Return organization assets, i.e. keycard, technology, office equipment, borrowed items.

• If necessary, extend health insurance to cover time between end of employment and departure date.
• 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.

• 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 next destination. Check if you will need to apply for a transit visa for any countries you are transiting through.
• Sell or donate vehicles, furniture and belongings.
• Obtain storage unit, if necessary. 
• 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.

• Find ways to stay connected through the institution’s alumni association; some may have overseas chapters.
• Join relevant LinkedIn groups and other relevant networks.
• Say your goodbyes and show appreciation to friends, colleagues, peers, mentors, etc. Get their contact information and social media handles to stay connected after you leave.