Optional Practical Training (OPT) is intended to provide hands-on practical experience complementary to the academic program, 8 CFR 214.2(f)(10)(ii). Students on practical training are still ...

Students in F-1 status who have completed two semesters of an academic program are eligible for a total of 12 months of work authorization known as Optional Practical Training (OPT). You can apply to ...

Follow the steps below for guidance on how to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Reminder: Do not submit your OPT application to USCIS until you have received your Form I-20 with your OPT ...

Warning: Do not file for OPT without requesting and receiving an I-20 recommending an extension of your Optional Practical Training work authorization. See instructions under OPT STEM Extension ...

As an F-1 student, you may only work off campus in the U.S. if you have received special written work authorization approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The following ...

More than a million international students are studying at U.S. colleges and universities. For many of them, opportunities continue after graduation thanks to the federal Optional Practical Training ...

Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training may be used before graduation. It is meant to supplement your academic experience with practical experience. Optional Practical Training is an F-1 student ...

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization for practical training directly related to a student’s major field of study. Standard OPT is available for a cumulative maximum ...

The Pre-Completion OPT I-20 Request is available as an e-form in the Training/Employment-Related Forms section of the MyISSS portal. SEVP allows DSOs to provide electronic or scanned signatures and to ...

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment directly related to your major area of study. You may apply for 12 months of OPT per degree level plus a possible 24-month extension for those ...

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an authorization to work in off-campus employment or internships for F-1 students in their major or field of study. Off-campus work is only allowed under certain ...