What is OPT?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is work authorization available to international students in USA.

To be eligible for OPT students should have been in valid F-1 status for at least two consecutive semesters.

OPT Application Deadline

The earliest you can apply for OPT is 90 days before your course completion date.

The latest date the USCIS will accept your application is 60 days after your course completion date.

 

OPT Rules

  • 12 months of OPT is available after completing each higher level degree program.
    • Bachelors – 12 months
    • Masters – 12 months (MS, MBA, etc)
    • PhD – 12 months
  • If you complete MS and MBA, you can get only 12 months of OPT.
  • A job offer is not required to apply for OPT.
  • After you find a  job, you must inform your university international  office about you new job.
  • After OPT start date, you cannot stay unemployed for no more than 90 days (total and even between jobs).
  • There are no limits on job location within USA (Hawaii and Alaska counts)
  • If you change jobs during OPT, inform your univeristy