OPT Students Invitation Letter for
Graduation Ceremony

 

If you are participating in May's Commencement Ceremony and you would like to invite family members and/or friends to attend, you may request a status letter, and provide your own, personal invitation letter in support of your family/friend’s visa application.   


To facilitate your guest's visa interview process, you should provide them with the following: 

• Status Letter provided by International Student Services office. The status letter verifies your student status, dates of attendance, and current student status.
• A copy of your SUNY New Paltz transcript.
• A copy of your most recent I-20.
• Provide your guest with a "Letter of Invitation” written by you. Since the purpose of a tourist visa directly involves a visit to you, it will be beneficial if you provide your family and friends with the letter.  A sample letter will be provided once your Status Letter is available in the platform. 
   

Procedure: 

1. Log in to your My OPT Profile.   

2. Click on “2. Requests.”  

3. Under “What Can We Help You With”, see your request options, and click on the request you would like to make. 

4. Ensure that your address is current in the International Student Platform. 

5. Complete the Graduation Status Letter Request. 

6. Submit.  

You will receive an email once your letter has been issued. 
 

Special Considerations

• If your US Physical Address has changed, be sure to complete the Contact Information Update in the “What Can We Help You With” section.  To view your address: From the Personal & Program Page >> Contact Information >> US Physical Address>>
• Providing your family members with the documentation listed above may improve their chances of obtaining a visa; however, there is no guarantee a visa will be issued.
• Information to help your guests apply for a tourist visa (B-2) at a US consulate or Embassy in their home country can be found on the US Department of State site.  
• All students must apply for graduation to have a degree conferred (diploma awarded) Additional information including application & deadline found on the Records & Registration site.  
• Please visit the SUNY New Paltz Commencement Ceremony site for  information, updates and FAQs regarding the year's ceremony. 

 

To begin this request, login here: International Student Platform