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International Student & Scholar Services

International Student and Scholar Return Checklist

As you prepare to wrap up your time at Vanderbilt and in the U.S., there are several important steps to consider to ensure a smooth transition. This checklist will guide you through key tasks to complete before your departure, so you can confidently wrap up your time in the U.S. and prepare for your next chapter.

  • 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dependents, consider their needs (e.g., a J-2 with an EAD may need to give notice; F-2 or J-2 children may need to be withdrawn from schools, etc.)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 ISSS advisor 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 form.
  • Ensure you do not have any outstanding visa reporting requirements.
  • Ensure you understand any limitations to returning in the future.
  • Confirm with ISSS that you are leaving within the allowable grace period.
  • If you are a J-1 Student Intern, complete the concluding evaluation.
  • 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. Contact the International Tax Office (ITO) with questions.
  • Determine how to receive your last paycheck.
  • Clarify entitlements/benefits (pension plans, retirement savings, and other benefits).
  • Contact Export Compliance 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 Vanderbilt's Alumni Association; there are some 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.

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