Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment for practical training directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Additional information about OPT can be found on the USCIS website.
A student is eligible to apply for a total of 12 months of OPT per higher education level. Students may use a portion of the 12-month allotment of OPT time before graduation (Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training) and a portion after graduation (Post-Completion Optional Practical Training), as long as they do not exceed 12 months total per educational level. Those who are STEM eligible may also apply for the 24-month STEM Extension 90 days prior to the completion of their Post-Completion OPT.
IMPORTANT: Students may only begin working AFTER they have received their EAD card AND the start date listed on their approved EAD card has commenced.
Note: If you do not apply for OPT at the end of your studies, you have a 60-day grace period beyond your program completion date. During this time you must either transfer your F-1 SEVIS record to another school, apply to USCIS to change your status to a different nonimmigrant classification, or depart the U.S. You cannot work during this 60-day grace period. If you depart the U.S. during this grace period, you will not be able to re-enter in F-1 status.
There are three types of Optional Practical Training (OPT):